About this experience
I invite you to a magical journey to the underground kingdom of Mira de Aire caves - one of the largest caves in the world. The Mira de Aire grotto is considered part of the country's famous 'golden ring' and one of its main natural attractions. The cave is called one of the wonders of Portugal, and when you find yourself in its whimsical 'halls', you will completely agree with this.
What to expect
By prior arrangement of the date and time, we will pick you up from the hotel. The distance to the place is 130 km; 1.5 hours on the way. On the way to the caves, you will hear interesting facts and stories about the events of ancient and modern Portugal, learn about the customs and life of the Portuguese. You will see all the charms of the natural features of the west of the Iberian Peninsula. This trip will be especially enjoyable for children and nature-loving travelers. Additionally, in summer after visiting the underground kingdom, you can spend time in the nearby water park!
We start the tour by watching a short film about the history and exploration of the caves, then we descend underground. Huge illuminated halls, centuries-old stalactites, whimsical sculptures created by nature - all of this is mesmerizing. The length of the underground corridors of the cave is about 11 km, and the total depth is approximately 230 meters.
Due to the special relief, not all water flows off the mountains on the surface, and some of it is retained in small lakes and gradually seeps through the limestone. This is why there are so many stalactites and stalagmites, reaching out to each other. And after many centuries, they will eventually merge into large columns - stalagnates.
You will descend to a depth of 100 meters down 683 steps. You will encounter small ponds, bridges, streams, and fountains - all of them are illuminated by thousands of colorful light bulbs. Artificial lighting turns the natural art into a magical underground kingdom! You will pass through several levels and halls. In total, there are 24 of them. For example, the 'Spaghetti' hall with thin stalactites or the 'Organ' hall with impressive dripstone formations.
Throughout the tour, we will be accompanied by a specialist who will explain the intricacies of the formation of this 'wonder' in Portuguese. The guide will provide you with a consecutive translation.
Organizational details
Cost of the excursion by traveler’s car - 280 euros
- Additional expenses:
— entrance tickets: adults - 6.90 €, children from 5 to 11 years - 4.10 €, up to 5 years - free
— lunch (in the village near the caves, in a restaurant with national cuisine and low prices) - This amazing tour can be combined with a trip to the cities of Tomar or Fatima. In this case, the time and cost increase - please check with the guide
