Top 20 Caves in Belluno
Best caves in Belluno are found within the Dolomites, offering a range of subterranean experiences. The region features diverse geological formations, from karst sinkholes to natural grottoes and historical war tunnels. These sites provide insights into both natural processes and human history. Belluno's caves present varied exploration opportunities for visitors.
Best caves in Belluno
- The most popular caves include Lagazuoi Tunnels, a cave that was created by Italian soldiers during World War I and is now open to visitors.…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Kaiserjägersteig Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Bus de la Lum Sinkhole
Highlight • Cave
During the Second World …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lagazuoi Tunnels and World War I Trenches
Highlight • Historical Site
Descend better in the tunnel and choose a different route for ascent over the (quite simple) via ferrata
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Blue Grotto of Mel
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cengia Martini World War I Outpost
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Goiginger Tunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Forte Monte Ricco
Highlight • Cave
Showing Translation
Tip by
Grotta dell'acqua nera
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Tofana Cave
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lagazuoi Tunnels
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves in Belluno.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Belluno
Sneak Peaks ADVENTURE 🥇
Alta Via Dolomiti Bellunesi – the wild Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park
The extra-large Dolomites round – an out-of-this-world hiking adventure
Via Venezia Alpina – hiking across the Alps to the Adriatic Sea
The Munich-Venice Long-Distance Cycle Path – A beautiful Alps crossing
The "Dream Path" hiking trail – From Munich to Venice in 28 stages
Alta Via No. 5 — Tizians High Route
Traversing the Dolomites — the world's most beautiful mountain range
Road to BAM! 2026 – Share the road
Veneto and Trentino by bike – between the Lagoon and the Dolomites
Other adventures in Belluno
Tips from the Community
Built in the last two decades of the 19th century, under the Kingdom of Italy, the Forte di Monte Ricco constituted the heart of the entrenched camp of Pieve di Cadore. It was conceived and built to interdict enemy approaches from the Tre Ponti narrows towards Pieve and Tai along the Piave valley and to act in close synergy with the nearby Batteria Castello, about 200 meters away, as well as with the various artillery positions on the overlying heights, on Monte Tranego, Monte Zucco, Col Vidà. Monte Ricco was probably the site of a prehistoric settlement, then of the castle of Cadore. Abandoned until 2007, it has undergone demanding restoration, consolidation, and enhancement works. Reopened to the public in 2017, it hosts exhibitions or classical music concerts. https://www.tizianovecellio.it/luoghi/il-forte-di-monte-ricco/
1
0
Wonderful panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Falzarego Pass.
0
0
A truly worthwhile detour – first a short way up the gully and then along the ledge (with a cable) to the grotto. Inside the grotto, you can take a walk through the tunnels – bring a headlamp.
2
0
Looking back along the path which leads from Refuge Dabona
0
0
The name probably derives from "lume" or flame, due to the luminescence that would have been seen on summer nights above the cavity, produced by the gases generated by the putrefaction of animal carcasses thrown into the well. The cavity was formed by karst, or by the dissolution of the rock by water. According to legend, it is inhabited by the Anguane, very ugly fairies, with nails instead of hair, and long fangs instead of teeth. During the day they went to wash clothes at Lake Santa Croce, then wandered around in search of wood, food and children to roast. At night, they lit a small fire, whose light, spotted by shepherds, gives the cavity its name
2
0
The grotto is located above the Dibona hut in the direction of the Lipella via ferrata. The entrance to the secured access to the grotto goes off to the right and up a gully. At the end of the gully you will find the first safety devices. There is a circular path in the grotto that is really worth it. Don't forget your headlamp!
1
0
The large entrance hall of this cave conceals a deep, dark mouth, filled by an underground stream that is always well-fed, even in dry periods. This is the entrance—reserved for cave divers—to a vast and intricate network of cavities deep within the mountain. The water is actually clear, and it is thought that the name derives from the dark moss-covered floor, over which the stream flows before flowing into the Senaiga. Due to the cave's complex morphology and technical difficulties, exploration began only in the 1970s, and so far, cave divers have discovered a 1,600-meter stretch of siphons and difficult passages. In the 1930s, dye injections proved that this cave communicates with the Castello Tesino Caves, a few kilometers away. Furthermore, an examination of the fine sand found inside, rich in granite crystals, testifies to a significant contribution of water coming from the Cima d'Asta group, much higher and much more distant!
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most historically significant caves in Belluno?
Belluno's caves offer deep historical insights. The Lagazuoi Tunnels were created by Italian soldiers during World War I and are now open to visitors, equipped with ropes and gear. Similarly, the Kaiserjägersteig Trail features tunnels that were vital connection roads during the First World War. The Bus de la Lum Sinkhole also holds a tragic history from the Second World War.
Are there caves in Belluno with unique geological formations?
Yes, the region boasts unique geological features. The Grotta di Tofana, located in the Tofane group, is notable as one of the few natural caves formed in dolomite rock rather than typical limestone. It extends approximately 300 meters deep with a roof up to 10 meters high.
Which caves in Belluno are suitable for experienced adventurers or require special equipment?
For those seeking a challenge, the Grotta di Tofana is accessible via a via ferrata. The Lagazuoi Tunnels are classified as a beginner via ferrata and require a headlamp or flashlight, with a helmet also recommended. The Grotta dell'acqua nera, with its intricate network of underwater cavities, is reserved for experienced cave divers.
Can I find caves in Belluno that offer insights into prehistoric life?
Yes, the Bus de la Bela is particularly interesting for its paleontological significance. Remains of Ursus spalaeus (Cave Bear), a large mammal from the Pleistocene epoch, have been discovered there, offering a glimpse into ancient ecosystems.
What is the best time of year to visit caves in Belluno?
For caves like the Grotta Azzurra, visiting in late spring or early fall is recommended to enjoy the views more tranquilly and appreciate its turquoise waters. Generally, these periods offer pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding areas as well.
Are there any family-friendly cave experiences in Belluno?
While many caves in Belluno can be challenging, the Old Road of the Cismon Gorge offers a route that includes a cave section and is considered family-friendly, providing a suggestive experience along a deep gorge.
What kind of unique natural phenomena can be found in Belluno's caves?
The Grotta Azzurra, located in Borgo Valbelluna, is famous for its stunning turquoise-colored, crystal-clear water, creating a 'small corner of paradise.' The Bus del Buson is another natural spectacle, a fossil canyon carved by water in the Ardo valley.
What outdoor activities can I do near the caves in Belluno?
The Belluno region, home to these caves, is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous Mountain Hikes, including challenging routes like the 'Lagazuoi Hut – Entrance to the Kaiserjäger Path loop'. There are also extensive MTB Trails and Road Cycling Routes throughout the Dolomites.
Are there any caves in Belluno related to World War I military history beyond the Lagazuoi Tunnels?
Yes, the Goiginger Tunnel on the Hexenstein is another significant World War I site. Named after Field Marshal Ludwig von Goiginger, this 500-meter tunnel crosses almost the entire east wall of the Hexenstein horizontally and can be explored with the right equipment.
What should I know about the Grotta dell'acqua nera?
The Grotta dell'acqua nera features a large entrance hall leading to a deep, dark opening. An underground stream flows into an intricate network of underwater cavities, making it a site primarily for experienced cave divers. Its name, meaning 'black water,' likely comes from the dark, moss-covered floor over which the clear stream flows.
What do visitors enjoy most about exploring the caves in Belluno?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by Belluno's caves, from the historical significance of the World War I tunnels to the unique geological formations and paleontological findings. The opportunity to combine cave exploration with hiking and other outdoor activities in the stunning Dolomites is also a major draw.
Most popular routes in Belluno
Most popular attractions in Belluno
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Discover more caves in Belluno region by region:
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in Belluno:
