What Lies Beneath Budapest: Caving in the City

[Iberostar Hotels & Resorts]

Budapest never fails to fascinate those who visit , both due to its history and its architecture. Furthermore, it has an attraction which remains largely unknown to the general public: the large number of caves which run beneath it, formed by the erosive effect of the thermal underground waters. The best known and in the best condition is the Pálvölgyi Cave, a formation discovered in 1902 and opened to the public in 1927, 18 kilometers in length. It is the second longest cave in Hungary, and has been a nature reserve since 1944.

A visit to the cave can turn the visitor, even if they have some cave experience, into a genuine underground explorer if they opt for the long tour, which takes more than three hours (there is easier option which lasts around 50 minutes). At the entrance to the cave, you will receive the equipment you need (overalls, helmet and flashlight), and it is advised to bundle up warmly, as temperatures can drop as low as 8 degrees.

The tour begins with a 12-meter descent down a steep staircase and, from then on, everything is a unique adventure. Climbing the walls, exploring passageways that appear to have no exit, passing through impossible crevices, walking along the more open areas - all unique ways of moving forward. One point is that if you suffer from claustrophobia or have any kind of mobility problem, it is best not to venture too deep into this genuine maze; you will, however, always be accompanied by expert guides.

During the tour, you can gaze at stalactites, stalagmites, fossils and different types of rock formations, always explained by specialist staff, allowing you to understand the past, present and future of these fascinating sights.

What's more, if you are interested, you can celebrate your child’s birthday with a short tour, simplified explanations and, of course, a cake. A real experience for the smallest members of the family.

Don’t miss: If you are left wanting more, in Budapest there are two more caves that you must visit: theSzemlőhegyi Cave, with high walls adorned with formations reminiscent of bunches of fruit and vegetables, and the Labyrinth of Buda Castle with reproductions of cave paintings, post-modern sculptures and a magnificent Room of Terror, in complete darkness.

 

“IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has a hotel in Budapest: the 5-star IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Budapest. It has a privileged location, surrounded by important buildings, embassies and shopping areas. It was built in 2011 and itssuites offer perfect luxury. “

From our blog Passport To...