We recommend a plan for enjoying potholing to the full on the Costa del Sol. Málaga has some really spectacular sites for those interested in this adventurous activity. It should be borne in mind that the province of Málaga has the greatest concentration of caves in southern Europe. Specifically, in the surrounding areas of Ronda, there are caves that are more than 10 km in length and potholes or chasms of more than 1000 metres.
Cueva del Gato
Located in the Sierra de Grazalema Nature Park, near Ronda, this is one of the most popular caves for practising potholing. It comprises a descent of covered canyons where it's necessary to swim, jump over pools, abseil and walk. This is a real adventure, thanks to the characteristics of this system with potholes, a permanent flow of water, lakes and flooded underground chambers. There are two types of trips, the complete route and a shorter one, from the Cueva del Gato to the Sala de las Dunas.
Excéntrica and Fuensanta
These caves, located in the Genal valley, are exceptionally beautiful. They are perfect for people who would like to try potholing for the first time, as they provide the opportunity to sample different techniques.
Cueva de Nagüeles
This cave is located on the outskirts of Marbella, and thanks to its size and its beauty it's another perfect place for people to try potholing for the first time.
Other caves and chasms
The list of chasms, potholes and caves in the province of Málaga is endless. Some of these wonderful locations include the cave known as the Sima del GESM, which is 1,100 metres deep, the Cueva de la Minilla, the Cueva de la Limosna, the Cueva del Tesoro, the Nerja Caves, the Cueva del Toro in the Torcal de Antequera and the Sima de la Luz.
Precaution and professionals
Especially in the case of not having experience yourself, you should always take expert advice, by contacting any of the companies that organise this type of activities on the Costa del Sol. The companies and experts, depending on the degree of difficulty and prior experience, can recommend the best caves, potholes and chasms to make a start, or go a step further, in this fascinating world. Potholing, just as in adventure books, is making a journey to, or more literally towards, the centre of the Earth, in this case to the heart of the Costa del Sol.
