Caves around Contursi Terme offer a mix of natural and historical attractions within the Picentini Mountains and near the Tanagro River. The region is known for its geological formations and historical sites, including evidence of ancient human presence and past hideouts. These natural features Contursi Terme caves provide opportunities for exploration and understanding the area's history. The landscape combines river valleys with mountainous terrain, creating diverse environments for various cave systems.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
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
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves around Contursi Terme.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Grotta Profunnata is one of the most interesting attractions of the Oasi Valle della Caccia. It has different environments, and is only partially accessible to visitors, with the help of suitable equipment and under the guidance of an expert.
2
0
Along the path that leads from the Valle della Caccia WWF Oasis to the "Grotta Profunnata" you come across a natural rock cavity called the "Boar's Den". Trekking clothes and sturdy shoes!
5
0
One of the jewels of the Picentini Mountains is the "Grotta Profunnata", an interesting discovery inside the mountain massif. This place, already known as a refuge for brigands in the second half of the 19th century, saw its first official exploration only in 2004. The speleologists who ventured there managed to identify real "environments" within it: a small cave joined by a corridor to a larger one, which overlooks the Valle del Trientale. Continuing along the path, stalactites and stagmites dominate, leading to a small lake, characterized by crystal clear water. Unfortunately, the cave in its entirety is not a place accessible to everyone: in its entirety it can only be visited by speleologists or, in any case, experts equipped with the appropriate equipment. For ordinary visitors, the excursion is only possible in the initial part, always with the aid of suitable equipment and under the guidance of an expert. https://grandecampania.it/oasi-valle-della-caccia/
4
1
Along the Nature Trail to reach the Acquabianca waterfall, you come across the "grotta del moss", the result of a calcareous concretion that opens onto a rock wall. A thousand rivulets of water fall from the top of the wall, feeding large layers of moss. The drops that descend profusely seem to originate from the roots of the trees above and give life to suggestive chromatic effects. Appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
4
0
To reach this place trekking clothing and sturdy shoes! The entrance to the Grotta di Sant'Elia opens onto one of the most evocative "balconies" of the Alburni. From here it is possible to see the Piana del Sele, the Amalfi Coast and in the clearest days, Capri, and obviously the underlying medieval village of Postiglione, faithful to the cult of the Saint for centuries. https://monacincammino.it/luoghi/la-grotta-di-santelia-a-postiglione/#:~:text=The entrance%20alla%20Grotta%20di,fedele%20al%20culto%20del%20Santo.
3
0
The "grotta dei Briganti", located at the foot of Monte Ripalta, is one of the many caves in the countryside of the countryside, it has been for years a safe haven for criminals, Brigands or for those who had problems in the town, as its position did not it was easy to access. In fact, until the 70s of the last century, the road below did not exist, the steep slope plunged directly into the nearby river Atri, it could be reached either via the river or from the Patia bridge located near the chapel of the Madonna dell Thanks to the fattening of the Old Town. In the present cave we can still see an opening at the top left, which leads to a path that, through considerable difficulties, at 850 m a.s.l., leads to the so-called 2grotta del Prete ", the cave where the" Banda Giardullo "held hostage the priest Giuseppe Olivieri during the kidnapping which took place in 1864. These events fall within the historical period of the "Brigandage" and what resulted from the unification of Italy.
1
0
The caves in the Contursi Terme area offer a rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You can find impressive geological formations like stalactites and stalagmites, evidence of ancient human presence dating back to the Eneolithic period, and historical hideouts used by brigands. The landscape combines river valleys with mountainous terrain, creating diverse environments for exploration.
Yes, the Grotta del Rosario is a significant archaeological site. Discovered in the early 1990s, it reveals evidence of human presence from the Eneolithic period, including a unique rock sculpture of a human face and findings like flint tools and impasto pottery, linking it to the ancient Gaudo civilization.
Many caves feature stunning natural formations. For example, The “Grotta Profunnata” in the Oasi Valle della Caccia is known for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, and a small lake with crystal-clear water. Moss Cave is notable for its calcareous concretions and large layers of moss fed by numerous rivulets, creating striking chromatic effects.
Absolutely. The Brigand's Cave, located at the foot of Monte Ripalta, was historically used as a safe haven for criminals and brigands. Similarly, The “Grotta Profunnata” was also known as a refuge for brigands in the 19th century.
While many caves require expert guidance and equipment, an initial section of The “Grotta Profunnata” in the Oasi Valle della Caccia is accessible to ordinary visitors with suitable gear and expert guidance. For more challenging caves, proper preparation is essential.
For most cave explorations, especially those involving hiking or more rugged terrain, it is recommended to wear trekking clothing and sturdy shoes. For caves like The “Grotta Profunnata”, even for the accessible sections, suitable equipment and expert guidance are advised.
Yes, Sant'Elia Cave opens onto one of the most evocative 'balconies' of the Alburni mountains. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Piana del Sele, the Amalfi Coast, and on clear days, even Capri, along with the medieval village of Postiglione below.
The area around Contursi Terme offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the 'Valle della Caccia and Grotta Profunnata Loop' or the 'Acquabianca Waterfall loop'. There are also options for road cycling and mountain biking. For more details, explore the hiking routes around Contursi Terme.
Yes, along the path leading to The “Grotta Profunnata”, you will come across Tana del cinghiale - Natural rock cavity, which is known as the 'Boar's Den'. It's an intermediate natural rock cavity.
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and the sense of discovery offered by the caves. The impressive geological formations, the archaeological insights into ancient civilizations, and the historical narratives of brigands provide a rich and engaging experience. The natural settings also offer opportunities for scenic walks and hikes.
Yes, several caves are considered challenging. The “Grotta Profunnata” in its entirety is only accessible to speleologists or experts with appropriate equipment. Similarly, The Brigand's Cave and Sant'Elia Cave are also categorized as challenging, often requiring trekking clothing and sturdy shoes due to their difficult access.


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