Mira de Aire is a small town about an hour out of Lisbon. Nestled between mountains, it is home to one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders: Grutas de Mira de Aire. Portugal has tons of underground caves, most are open to the public,  accompanied by a guide, some even have halls inside to host events – like the caves of Mira de Aire! Yes you read that correctly there is a HALL that you can rent inside this cave!  

It is the biggest underground limestone cave in Portugal and has been open to the public for over 40 years.  The cave is 11kms long (not all 11kms are explored) and has 683 steps to go down when viewing.  It is very easy to go down these steps as they are very gradual, and your so focused on the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The galleries are very large – so you don’t feel claustrophobic. Pathways and walls are lit up well so that you are able to see all the detail in the limestone formations. There are also several man made water fountains that bring character to the galleries.  

Mira de Aire caves were found in 1947 by 2 local men. It was not until the 1960s that the company created steps so that the public could start enjoying the beauty of the caves.  The limestone formations get bigger every year as the water continues to drop little by little bringing the clay down from the ground with it. The website has a detailed explanation on what chemical reactions take place in order to make these massive formations.

Inside the caves the temperature is cool – if going in the summer you will be comfortable with your summer cloths – only advice I have is that you bring shoes with grip (running shoes) because the pathway could be wet causing it to be slippery. The cost to go into the cave is 7€ for an adult. I have only been to two lime stone caves in Portugal, this one and the Coin Caves in Fátima. I would 100% suggest seeing these one over the ones in Fátima if you could only choose one. It is only about 30 minutes from Fátima. 

There is a small animal farm you can view while you wait for your tour to go in. There is also a small swimming park here that has 3 slides and swimming pools for children and adults. The swimming park is an additional fee of 8,75€.  I would have to say that the only downside of this cave is that it’s not accessible to persons with limited mobility. Although, there is the elevator that brings you back up once you are in the last gallery. 

You will not regret stopping to see these caves if you are in the area. Several amazing natural creations our world has to offer and this is one of them! Hope you enjoy my gallery of pictures! 

Until next time and remember to live ∼ laugh ∼ E Amar.