Best caves around Chiampo are found in a region characterized by diverse geological features, including the Lessini mountains and ancient volcanic activity. The area offers a mix of natural rock formations and historically significant underground sites. Monte Calvarina, a prominent relief, is known for its archaeological importance, indicating human presence in natural shelters over millennia. This landscape provides opportunities to explore both natural karst cavities and man-made underground complexes.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
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The Buso delle Anguane is a fascinating cave in the rock with a natural balcony overlooking the Chiampo Valley: a place of mystery and legends, in ancient folk tales it was the home of the anguane, evil creatures that attracted men with their comely appearance. https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anguana The path to reach the cave is quite impervious and challenging, not very visible and not signposted along the asphalt road.
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The Cascata dei Papalini suddenly appears in a small clearing in the heart of the forest, along the path: over time the falling water has formed a columnar deposit of gray limestone that descends like a drape and that partly acts as a springboard for the jet. But the peculiarity and spectacular nature of this waterfall is the possibility of seeing it even from behind the scenes: in fact, by climbing to the left on a short but steep path, you reach a natural roof of the rock from which you can observe the forest below through the curtain of water, without getting wet! The passage is not protected and is wet, so you need to pay particular attention. Like all torrential waterfalls, it is not always full and active: you need to look for the right period, perhaps after heavy rains, to visit it in all its thunderous splendor.
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Point quite easy to reach unless it has rained recently, in which case I would advise caution. Very suggestive view from inside the "Buso"
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Road that leads from Faedo to Monte di Malo
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Beautiful waterfall, it looks like a face with one eye, a big nose and teeth😊
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The Papalini waterfall is a small waterfall in the middle of the woods, it deserves to be seen
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An extremely evocative and interesting site, hidden and unexpected, almost surreal: it surprises with its vastness and the slender square columns supporting the titanic ceiling... it feels like being inside a temple in ancient Mesopotamia or in the mines of Moria from Tolkien's memory! The Priàre (from 'pria', meaning stone in the Venetian dialect) are a complex of underground quarries and tunnels for the extraction of the renowned "soft Vicenza stone," active from Roman times until the mid-20th century. During the bombings of World War II, the quarries were used by the inhabitants of Montecchio as a refuge; between 1972 and 1985, they were exploited as a mushroom farm, thanks to the humidity and constant temperature throughout the year; Afterwards, they were abandoned until their redevelopment and safety measures in 2000. Vicenza Stone is a highly prized material, always highly appreciated and sought after in architecture and construction: beyond its aesthetic appeal, it is soft and malleable when freshly quarried, but upon contact with air, it "seasons," hardening and becoming extremely resistant over time. This rock was used to build the Montecchio fortresses and by Andrea Palladio for his works. It has always been quarried strictly by hand, using the same technique for millennia, in square blocks; this is why the quarries have such a geometric appearance. Open Sunday afternoon; entry is only possible with a (very interesting) guided tour lasting about 40 minutes; admission is €3. Please note that payment by POS is not possible due to the lack of signal. https://www.prolocoaltemontecchio.it/cosa-vedere/le-priare/
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Nice circular tour with very little asphalt and many paths immersed in the nature of the small Dolomites
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The Chiampo region offers a diverse range of underground experiences, including natural karst cavities, historical underground quarries, and unique cave-like waterfall formations. You can find everything from small natural caves with panoramic views to extensive man-made complexes used for stone extraction.
Yes, the region features significant historical sites. A notable example is Le Priare di Montecchio Underground Complex, an extensive system of underground quarries active since Roman times. These quarries, used for extracting Vicenza stone, feature vast chambers with slender square columns and offer guided tours.
Absolutely. The Buso delle Anguane Cave is a small cave open on both sides that provides a panoramic view of the opposite valley and the Gingerino refuge from its elevated position. The path to reach it can be quite challenging.
Yes, you can visit Lucio's Hole, a karst cavity known for emitting fresh air, sometimes referred to as 'dragon's breath'. This phenomenon creates a distinct rustling sound, especially in summer, due to the exchange of hot and cold air masses.
Beyond typical caves, you can experience the Papalini Waterfall. This natural monument allows visitors to walk behind its veil of water, offering a unique perspective within a forest setting.
Yes, the Strada delle Lore is a military road that runs along the Lore valley and features numerous shelters built into caves. It's a well-beaten path suitable for walking or cycling, interspersing meadows and woods.
The area around Chiampo offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Running Trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
Yes, Chiampo is home to La Grotta - Santuario di Chiampo, which is a faithful replica of the Lourdes Grotto. While not a natural cave, it is a significant religious and Marian pilgrimage site, built in 1935 and featuring a statue of the Immaculate Conception.
Monte Calvarina, a relief in the Lessini mountains near Chiampo, is an important multi-layered archaeological site. It shows evidence of human presence from the Middle Paleolithic and Neolithic periods, likely utilizing natural shelters and rock formations. It also has geological significance due to ancient volcanic activity.
Visitors frequently praise the unique perspectives offered by sites like Papalini Waterfall, the impressive panoramic views from Buso delle Anguane Cave, and the vast, almost surreal atmosphere of the historical Le Priare di Montecchio Underground Complex. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance is highly valued.
The difficulty varies. Some sites like the path to Buso delle Anguane Cave are described as quite challenging and impervious. Other experiences, like the guided tours at Le Priare di Montecchio Underground Complex, are more accessible, though they may involve walking through extensive underground spaces. Trails like Strada delle Lore are generally well-beaten and without demanding climbs.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Chiampo: