Cuevas de San José
Cuevas de San José (eng. Saint Joseph's Caves), located in the municipality of La Vall d’Uixó, is a limestone cave formed in the Middle Triassic period. It holds the longest navigable underground river in Europe. Its origin remains unknown. It has been inhabited by humans for 17,000 years, and is both a Site of Cultural Interest and UNESCO World Heritage.
The first exploration of the caves happened in 1902 and after that, more groups explored further. In 1958, the first topographic map was made. In 1960, Joaquín Saludes from the Valencia Underwater Research Center went beyond the "Galería de los Siphones." They used dynamite to open this passage on April 14, 1961, revealing the "Blue Pond" and other galleries. The "Dry Gallery" became accessible to the public in 1973, and more exploration continued, discovering new areas from 1971 to 1975, in total 2,348 meters explored.
This visit gave me mixed feelings. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful experience and how wonderful what nature is capable of. The formations of stalagmites and stalactites together with crystal blue water create a magical atmosphere. The idea that you are floating on the longest river of such kind in Europe makes it extra special.
Our 5 months old joined us as well. Even though we were a little concerned whether it's a good idea, he ended up having a good time looking at all the lights while being safely held by his dad in a baby carrier. The tour itself isn't too long, around 40-50 minutes in a pleasant 20°C (throughout the year). Guides are doing a great job navigating those boats between all the narrowings.
Nonetheless, the caves have been heavily commercialized. Right from the entrance, you get the sense of being on a conveyor, even on a moderately busy day. There are many boats filled with people and the whole experience feels like a revolving carousel. At the entrance they quickly take a few professional photos of every arriving group. You can purchase them later at the exit. To be fair, they don't pressure you to buy them and for this reason we ended up getting one.
The guides speak only Spanish, but it's quite common in Spain. As a foreigner you end up missing on quite some of the information. Throughout the journey you can hear the sounds of bats. Except it's only a recording as they left the caves a long time ago. Eventually, at the end of the tour, they turn off the lights and play an instrumental pop song accompanied by a colourful light show. Most people were really amazed by this. Overall, despite some ¨cringe¨ moments, it was a unique and worthwhile experience.
Feel free to send me your suggestions for must-visit places in the province of Castellón and beyond.