El Castillo Caves and Paleotithic Art- small groups

About this tour

A five-hour guided trip to two UNESCO-listed caves near Puente Viesgo in northern Spain. El Castillo holds some of the world's oldest hand stencils, created by over 50 different people during the Upper Paleolithic period. Las Monedas showcases charcoal drawings from the Magdalenian era and impressive geological formations. The tour includes hotel pickup, both cave entries, a guide who translates on-site commentary, and a stroll through the quiet village. Groups capped at eight people.

Highlights

• Hand stencils at El Castillo, among Earth's oldest artworks
• Charcoal Magdalenian drawings in Las Monedas cave
• UNESCO World Heritage sites from Ice Age Europe
• Pas River views and village walk in Puente Viesgo
• Small groups ensure intimate cave experience
• Year-round 12°C cave temperatures preserved ancient art

What to expect

You'll start with hotel collection and travel by private vehicle to Puente Viesgo. Inside El Castillo, a guide walks you past negative hand prints pressed onto stone over 36,000 years ago—evidence of ritual or territorial marking by dozens of individuals. The cave's ochre handprints remain the most striking feature. Las Monedas follows, where you examine Magdalenian charcoal silhouettes and stalactite formations. Both caves require steady footing on uneven ground; the 12°C interior feels cold year-round. Expect Spanish-language narration with guide translation. After cave visits, you'll explore the village briefly before returning to your hotel.

Good to know