The Hundidero and Gato Cave mouths are an intriguing geological wonder close to Ronda well worth a visit if you are in the area. The cave system features two remarkable areas with unique characteristics. Being home to a large colony of bats, remarkable cave paintings and a 4 KM subterranean (ie professional caving) route. The cave system itself is not open to the general public. You can, however visit both cave entrances to with the Cueva del Gato being the easiest as it has convenient parking and just a short walk of 500 metres or so.
The Cueva del Gato
Nestled within the depths of the Andalusian countryside, the Cueva del Gato, or the cat’s cave, is a remarkable river pool. However, as with many beautiful and accessible destinations, it can get quite crowded during the summer months, particularly on weekends. Despite the crowds, the allure of the crystal-clear, pristine waters remains irresistible.
The water is exceptionally cold, but this only adds to the refreshing and invigorating experience of taking a dip. It’s the perfect spot to cool off after a morning’s sightseeing or to enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the natural beauty of the Andalusian countryside. There are also plenty of nearby bars and restaurants within a short driving distance.
Getting to the Cueva del Gato from Ronda
The Cueva del Gato is located just 2 kilometers from the village of Benaoján. To get there from Ronda, follow the signs for Jerez/Seville. After approximately 1 kilometer, look for the signpost indicating Benaoján/Montejaque and Cortes de la Frontera and take a left turn (MA7041). After 6 kilometers or so, keep your eyes peeled for a parking area on the right-hand side.
The car parking is not free but is well worth the small charge
In the spring of 2023, the Benaojan town hall installed a pay car park for visitors to park closer to the Cueva del Gato. The parking fee is just 1 euro.
From there, you can follow a short trail that leads to the cave.
However, please note that access to the cave mouth itself is currently prohibited due to safety concerns, but you can still enjoy the stunning scenery and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the spring that flows from the cave.
The Hundidero cave.
The cave mouth at Hundidero is where the water you saw flowing out of the Cueva del Gato enters the cave system. The two cave mouths are seperated by about 4 KM
To access the Hundidero Cave mouth there is a hike along a 2.5-kilometer trail which is very steep in places. The trail leads past the Caballeros Dam built at the beginning of the 20th century, which was never put into operation due to water leakage caused by the Karstic terrain.
Whilst entering the Hundidero-Gato cave system is prohibited, you can still explore the Hundidero Cave entrance. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and is accessible to the general public along a signposted footpath. REMEMBER: If you get down to the bottom and the cave entrance, you do have to come back the same way!
The Hundidero cave boasts an enormous mouth located at the base of a gorge That stands at an impressive height of approximately 60 meters. It receives water from nearby streams and rain drainage from the northeastern part of the Caíllo-Endrinal mountain range where it flows the
Recently, a project to revive the area has begun, featuring an exhilarating via ferrata built directly onto the historic Presa de los Caballeros dam near Montejaque, Málaga. This unique route—one of the few in Spain constructed over a dam—blends restored industrial elements with modern climbing infrastructure.
The experience begins through a cave connected to the legendary Hundidero-Gato system and is divided into three sections. The first section is rated K1, which is suitable for beginners and involves easy climbing with secure footholds and cables. The other two sections are rated K2, offering a bit more challenge with steeper climbs and longer stretches between anchors, but still accessible for most active people with no technical climbing experience. The sections are connected by a spectacular hanging bridge and an exciting zip line.
With sweeping views of the surrounding Sierra de Grazalema and a well-maintained setup that fuses history with adventure, this via ferrata offers a thrilling and safe introduction to vertical exploration in Andalucía.
You can find out more about the Vía Ferrata Presa de los Caballeros over at Wikiloc.
Getting to the Hundidero cave from Ronda
Take the A374 road towards Seville for 8 KM and look out for the left turn onto the MA8403 signposted for Benaojan, Montecorto and Cortes de la Frontera. Follow the MA8403 for 3.5 KM and the car park for the Hundidero footpath is on your right. (Parking here is free)
Exploring the Hundidero-Gato Caves and Via Ferrata Presa de los Caballeros: FAQ
It’s a 4-kilometer underground cave network between the Hundidero and Cueva del Gato entrances, located near Ronda. The system is not open for public entry, but both cave mouths are accessible and worth visiting.
No. Entry into the caves themselves is restricted due to safety concerns and conservation. However, you can visit both entrances and enjoy scenic hikes, views, and swimming near Cueva del Gato.
Yes. The spring-fed pool is open to the public and popular in summer. The water is very cold year-round, and access is free after paying a small parking fee nearby.
It’s a century-old dam project that was abandoned due to water leakage. Today it’s part of a revived recreational project that includes a via ferrata route built onto its face.
It’s a fixed climbing route built on the face of an old dam near the Hundidero cave. It features iron rungs, safety cables, a suspension bridge, and a zip line.
K1 is beginner-friendly, with easy vertical sections and close-set holds. K2 is still suitable for most people but includes steeper sections and slightly more exposure.
No prior climbing experience is required, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The route includes sections that may feel challenging for those with a fear of heights.
Yes. A certified via ferrata set is required, including a helmet, harness, lanyard with energy absorber, gloves (optional), and a pulley for the zip line.
The walk is about 2.5 kilometers and takes 30–45 minutes downhill, with a steeper return climb. Allow 1.5 hours round-trip.
Access to the Hundidero trail and the via ferrata is free. Parking at the Cueva del Gato costs 1 euro. Parking at the Hundidero trailhead is free.
Yes, but extreme heat is common. Bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Children over 12 with supervision and older adults in good health can complete the route. However, it’s not suitable for anyone with mobility issues or fear of heights.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
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