Top 7 Caves around Calizzano
Best caves around Calizzano are situated in the Ligurian hinterland, an area characterized by its mountainous terrain and rich geological formations. This region offers a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites, with numerous underground cavities formed by karst processes. The proximity to the Savona hinterland provides access to significant speleological and archaeological locations. The area's geology supports diverse cave systems, ranging from natural karst formations to historical mining tunnels.
Best caves around Calizzano
- The most popular caves is Pollera…
Last updated: June 3, 2026
Pollera Cave
Highlight • Cave
But ATTENTION also dangerous. The cave extends to the one to the rear, to the other to the right. There (right) it falls relatively quickly and …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Toirano Caves
Highlight • Cave
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
Toirano Caves
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bric Gettina Mines
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Tana dell'Arma Cave
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves around Calizzano.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Calizzano
MTB between sky, land and sea – Italy’s Alta Via dei Monti Liguri
Bardineto
Three long MTB descents — Italy’s Finale Ligure region
Pietra Ligure e Val Maremola
Hiking around Calizzano
Road Cycling Routes around Calizzano
MTB Trails around Calizzano
Cycling around Calizzano
Running Trails around Calizzano
Gravel biking around Calizzano
Other adventures around Calizzano
Tips from the Community
A very cool cave, lovely to sit there in the quietness.
0
0
The Toirano Caves are a complex of karst caves located in the Savona hinterland, one of the most important speleological and archaeological sites in Italy. The tourist route winds primarily through two connected caves: the Bàsura Cave and the Santa Lucia Superiore Cave. The Bàsura Cave, also known as the "Witches' Cave," is famous for its prehistoric finds. Neanderthal footprints and a vast "cemetery" of cave bears, who hibernated there, have been discovered here. The Santa Lucia Superiore Cave captivates visitors with its geological beauty, rich in stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and other rock formations. The Toirano Caves thus offer a fascinating journey through time, combining the wonder of underground nature with evidence of prehistoric life.
0
0
The Toirano caves are located a few kilometers from the town of the same name, in the hinterland of Borghetto Santo Spirito in the province of Savona.
17
0
Truly suggestive cave, with similarities to those used to shoot adventure films
0
0
A flashlight is recommended for the cave. You can walk in a fair bit. It's a bat cave, but we didn't see any. Attention on the right side is a steep edge. There you can fall into the depths!
0
0
Crossroads that leads to the famous caves in the hinterland of Borghetto Santo Spirito, very famous for their wealth of archaeological finds.
1
0
The geosite of the Bric Gettina mines (also known as the Purìn mines because the Pora stream is born there) hosts some small tunnels dug into the rock, along a quartz vein. The main gallery, 35 meters long, can be visited with caution because it has partially collapsed, while the other two, one on the right and one on the left, can be explored with greater tranquility. The extraction material, composed of minerals and mother rock, underwent a first lightening process in the flat areas in front of the tunnels to be then transported by mule to the ironworks at the bottom of the valley, where the complete processing took place. The waste material was unloaded in the ravaneto in front of it, where the white expanse of debris can still be seen. There is also a small stone building, known as the blacksmith's house, whose structure is attributable to that of the typical Ligurian boxes, useful as makeshift shelters.
2
1
big cave. Easy to reach. You can see bats. Right only recommended for experienced climbers.
1
1
Frequently Asked Questions
Which caves near Calizzano are suitable for families?
The Toirano Caves are an excellent choice for families. This natural monument offers an easily walkable tourist route through two connected caves, the Bàsura Cave and the Santa Lucia Superiore Cave, showcasing both prehistoric finds and stunning geological formations. The entire visit takes approximately 70 minutes.
What historical or archaeological discoveries can be found in the caves around Calizzano?
The Toirano Caves are a significant archaeological site, featuring Neanderthal footprints and a vast 'cemetery' of cave bears. Traces of *Homo sapiens* dating back about 12,000 years, including hand, foot, and knee prints, have also been found. Additionally, the Grotte del Caudano have yielded numerous bones of *Ursus Spelaeus* (ancient cave bear), some of which are displayed at the ticket office.
Are there any caves near Calizzano with unique geological formations?
Yes, the Toirano Caves are renowned for their diverse formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, calcite flowers, and fine aragonite crystals. The Bàsura Cave also features unique 'mammillary' formations. The Grotte del Caudano boast formations with imaginative names like 'the waterfall,' 'the organ pipes,' and 'the bed of nails,' alongside a distinctive clay floor and white walls from calcium carbonate deposits.
What should I wear when visiting the Grotte del Caudano?
When visiting the Grotte del Caudano, it is advisable to wear hiking boots, a sweater or fleece, and a waterproof windcheater. The internal temperature remains constant at around 9°C, and the environment is humid with potentially muddy ground.
Can I explore historical mining tunnels near Calizzano?
Yes, the Bric Gettina Mines offer a historical experience. These small tunnels were dug into rock along a quartz vein. The main gallery is 35 meters long and can be visited with caution due to partial collapse, while two other tunnels are safer to explore.
Are there any caves near Calizzano that are home to bats or other unique wildlife?
The Pollera Cave is known to be home to bats. The Grotte del Bandito, part of a natural reserve, are also a 'bear cave' and host a rich fauna, including the geotritone (*Speleomantes strinatii*), rare insects, and 13 different species of bats.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the caves around Calizzano?
The area around Calizzano offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the Rio Nero Loop Trail or the Bauda Springs Loop. There are also MTB trails and running routes available for different skill levels.
How accessible are the Grotte del Bandito?
Access to the Grotte del Bandito is strictly limited. Due to their protected status and importance for research, visits are generally only permitted for authorized activities conducted by the Protected Areas of the Maritime Alps.
What is the internal temperature like in the Grotte del Caudano?
The internal temperature in the Grotte del Caudano remains constant at approximately 9°C (48°F) throughout the year.
Are there any large, impressive caves that are relatively easy to reach near Calizzano?
The Pollera Cave is a large cave known for its impressive height and is generally easy to reach. However, visitors should exercise caution as some parts of the cave are unprotected and can be dangerous, with potential falls of 10 to 15 meters or more.
What is the typical duration of a visit to the Toirano Caves?
A visit to the Toirano Caves, which includes both the Bàsura Cave and the Santa Lucia Superiore Cave, typically takes approximately 70 minutes to an hour.
Where can I find more information about the Grotte del Caudano?
You can find more details about the Grotte del Caudano on the Visit Cuneese website.
Most popular attractions around Calizzano
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Calizzano:
