Top 12 Caves around Tàrbena
Best caves around Tàrbena are situated in a region characterized by its natural beauty and varied terrain. The municipality, though small, provides access to significant cave systems and challenging hiking routes. These sites offer a combination of geological formations and historical interest, with many providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area's caves are often found along routes that require some climbing.
Best caves around Tàrbena
- The most popular caves is Forat de Bèrnia, a cave that crosses…
Last updated: August 13, 2026
Forat de Bèrnia
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Forat de la Juvea
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Ascent to the Forat de Bèrnia via the North Side
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Cave of the Skulls
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El Badall Cave
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Tips from the Community
Great little hidden ascent which feels like it it inside the cliff face. Annoyingly difficult approach path but once you get to the ascent proper the magic begins. NOTE - this is a SAC T4 section of path - nothing technical but still a challenge. I suggest you may like to take gloves for the chains and staples. Gloves are also useful in the tight area where you have to partially crawl through a semi cave. I had a head torch but it was not really necessary. Sticks were a pain and might be best stowed at the start of the ascent. An disposable overbag (I always use a heavy duty dustbin liner) for your rucksack where it is best dragged behind you might also be useful but not 100% necessary. There is one particularly narrow place "a fatmans squeeze" that might give you trouble if your a big person,
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The start of the climb is demanding and gradually becomes easier. A rocky climb with ruts. A slight descent on stones, an accessible path and a descent on a well-paved road.
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The Forat de Bèrnia is an impressive place in the Sierra de Bèrnia, located in the Valencian Community, Spain. This natural tunnel, about 15 to 20 meters long, crosses the mountain range from north to south. At its widest entrance, it offers panoramic views of Altea, the Serra Gelada and the Mediterranean. The Forat de Bèrnia is presented as a spacious natural shelter that becomes a magnificent viewpoint of the Costa Blanca. The route begins on the north side of the mountain range, which is greener and wetter. As you cross the Forat, you move to the south face, with spectacular views of Altea, Benidorm and Puig Campana. In addition to the Forat, you can also explore the remains of the Bèrnia Fort and enjoy the varied landscapes that the mountains offer. If you decide to do this route, I recommend avoiding weekends and holidays to avoid the crowds and preserve the natural environment. I hope you enjoy this natural wonder! 😊🏞️
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The Forat de Bèrnia is an impressive place in the Sierra de Bèrnia, located in the Valencian Community, Spain. This natural tunnel, about 15 to 20 meters long, crosses the mountain range from north to south. At its widest entrance, it offers panoramic views of Altea, the Serra Gelada and the Mediterranean. The Forat de Bèrnia is presented as a spacious natural shelter that becomes a magnificent viewpoint of the Costa Blanca. If you decide to do this route, I recommend avoiding weekends and holidays to avoid the crowds and preserve the natural environment. I hope you enjoy this natural wonder! 😊🏞️
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The tour is great. The way to the cova (cave) spectacular. As was the path down. When it rains heavily, a waterfall shoots down the side of the hole in the rock.
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A few meters before the Font Grossa there is a detour towards the bowels of the ravine. The fountain has a traditional sink and usually always has water. The path begins a series of hairpin hairpins and quickly loses height, it's like going down an escalator. The entrance into the environmental space of the Girona River is spectacular through the Forat de la Juvea, a natural hole conditioned to sneak the path through the mountain and access the interior of the valley. In the ravine on the right, a thirty-meter waterfall forms during the rainy season, it is one of the sports descents of ravines in the area.
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Any time of the year is good to visit it, but in summer it is ideal since it maintains a very cool temperature and in 1 hour we can visit the cave quietly, it is an ideal place to visit it with children.
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The Cave of Skulls (Cova de les Calaveres in Valencian) is a curious cavern located on the northern slope of Mount Segili, right in the municipality of Benidoleig, Alicante. We can find it next to the road from Pedreguer to Benidoleig. It is one of the oldest caves in the entire Valencian Community. This cavity of more than 400 meters in length allows the visitor to take a trip back in time and learn how our ancestors lived long ago.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable caves to explore in the Tàrbena region?
Beyond the well-known Forat de Bèrnia, which crosses the Sierra de Bèrnia mountain range, you can also explore Forat de la Juvea, a natural hole leading into the Girona River valley. Another significant site is Sa Cova de Dalt, located in the Bijauca area, known for its large opening and historical significance dating back to the Neolithic period.
Are there any caves with historical or archaeological significance in the area?
Yes, Sa Cova de Dalt, just beyond Tàrbena, is a notable historical site. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of Neolithic human habitation, including arrowheads and pottery. Further afield, the Cave of the Skulls (Cova de les Calaveres) near Benidoleig is known for its paleontological remains, including ancient animal fossils.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the caves around Tàrbena?
The caves offer diverse natural features. Sa Cova de Dalt features a large main chamber with ample natural light and a smaller room with beautiful lime deposits. The Cave of the Skulls boasts impressive stalagmites, stalactites, and large domes. The Canelobre Caves, though not in Tàrbena itself, are famous for their massive 70-meter high vault and a 25-meter rock column resembling the Sagrada Familia.
Are there family-friendly caves to visit near Tàrbena?
The Cave of the Skulls (Cova de les Calaveres) near Benidoleig is considered ideal for families with children. It features safe walkways and lighting, making it accessible for all ages to explore its 400-meter length and learn about its ancient past.
What is the best time to visit the caves in the Tàrbena region?
While any time of year is generally suitable, summer can be particularly pleasant for visiting caves like the Cave of the Skulls, as they maintain a very cool temperature inside. For popular routes like the Forat de Bèrnia, it's recommended to avoid weekends and holidays to minimize crowds and better preserve the natural environment.
What are the accessibility and difficulty levels for exploring these caves?
Accessibility varies. Sa Cova de Dalt involves a 'difficult' walk with significant climbing in the initial section. The Forat de Bèrnia involves crossing a natural tunnel, which requires navigating in a low, inclined position for about 80 meters. The Cave of the Skulls, however, offers safe walkways and lighting, making it more accessible.
Are there any challenging cave explorations for experienced adventurers?
Yes, the Tàrbena region offers challenging cave explorations. The route to Sa Cova de Dalt is considered difficult due to significant climbing. Additionally, El Badall Cave is a challenging ascent that involves chains and staples, and a particularly narrow section known as a 'fatman's squeeze'.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves?
The region around Tàrbena is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, including challenging routes like the Penyes del Portitxol loop. There are also extensive MTB trails and gravel biking routes that offer scenic views of the landscape.
What should I wear or bring when exploring the more challenging caves?
For challenging cave explorations like El Badall Cave, it's advisable to bring gloves for sections with chains and staples. A head torch can be useful, though not always strictly necessary. For narrow passages, consider a durable overbag for your rucksack.
Where can I find parking for Sa Cova de Dalt?
For Sa Cova de Dalt, parking is available on the right side of the road from Tàrbena towards Castell de Castells, near the starting point of the walk to the cave.
Are there any sea caves in the wider Alicante region worth visiting?
Yes, Cova Tallada, located between Denia and Javea, is a notable sea cave. It's accessible via a steep hiking trail or by kayak and is renowned for its dramatic rock architecture and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
What do visitors appreciate most about the caves around Tàrbena?
Visitors frequently highlight the spectacular panoramic views offered from many cave locations, such as the Forat de Bèrnia. The unique natural formations, the sense of adventure on challenging routes, and the historical intrigue of sites like Sa Cova de Dalt are also highly valued.
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