Cueva del Tornero (Checa): the great subterranean cavity of central Spain

A labyrinth beneath the limestone tableland

The subterranean system consists of a labyrinth of galleries, featuring two major perpendicular conduit branches of distinct speleogenetic origins. It forms part of the regional karst system of the Muela de Utiel and the Hoz Seca canyon; part of the surface water swallowed in the poljé del Cubillo drains through this underground network.

The entrance

The mouth opens into the lower cliffs of the Hoz Seca gorge, leading into an immense vestibule where cattle frequently take shade in summer. At the back of this outer chamber, the actual cave passage begins through an L-shaped tube barely wide enough for an individual; after a few metres of tight crawling, the main gallery opens up.

Safety guidelines

This is not a developed tourist cave. It should only be explored by experienced speleologists with adequate helmets, lights, and caving gear, accompanied in groups and always notifying contacts of their itinerary. Respect bat colonies: do not enter during breeding or hibernation periods.