The Region of Murcia, renowned for its great climate and appealing coastline, harbors a lesser-known but equally impressive natural treasure: its underwater caves. These subaquatic environments offer an incredible experience for both experienced divers and those seeking new adventures. They also serve as important study sites for scientists and marine biologists investigating their formations and ecosystems.
These sites, accessible through guided dives, allow visitors to discover the tranquility and beauty of the underwater world. Both the caves and the submerged shipwrecks host a wide variety of marine life, from colorful fish and crustaceans to large geological formations, providing a fascinating perspective on the complexity of the Mediterranean ecosystem.
Cueva del Lago in the Cabo Tiñoso Reserve, La Azohía
Located west of Cabo Tiñoso, Cueva del Lago is an incredible place to explore. In its outer waters and the surrounding Cabo Tiñoso area, it is common to encounter marine species such as bottlenose dolphins, cetaceans, and sea turtles. It is suitable for all levels and has a depth of 3-12 meters.
Additionally, it leads to an interior brackish water lake over 70 meters long. The rock materials are white with blue and brown limestones. Beyond this stretch, there is a large vault of over 42,000 cubic meters and 80 meters long, making it one of the largest in Murcia.
Cueva Neptuno, El Portús, Cartagena
Located east of Cabo Tiñoso, Cueva Neptuno is one of the most visited caves. It is also commonly known as the "Cave of the Virgin" because it contains a figure of the Virgin inside. Its exterior entrance, once situated in Cala Aguilar, is easily accessible either from the sea or by walking from El Portús, although a 5-meter vertical step requires a piece of safety rope to access and return from land. This cavity has an entrance from the sea for diving with tanks at a depth of 15 meters.
This cave has also a very special feature, which is that during calm sea conditions, it is possible to differentiate between saltwater and freshwater due to temperature changes. Its depth reaches up to 14 meters.
Cueva del Agua, Isla Plana, Cartagena
Cueva del Agua boasts a wide variety of underwater cave formations, being part of a set of cavities belonging to Cabezo de Hornos. It offers a spectacular experience as one of the longest active hydrothermal networks in Spain but is only recommended for very experienced divers. It has a depth of -34 meters.
Cueva de la Virgen de Calabardina, Águilas
This cave is simple and free of currents. It houses the tail of a small plane and two shipwrecks, the Ana María and the Nueva Mi Teresa. Additionally, it has the attraction of having been the filming location for the movie "The Nautical Chart," based on the novel by Arturo Pérez Reverte. Its depth is 25 meters.
These Mediterranean gems represent a natural treasure inviting exploration, with their rich biodiversity and geological formations offering a unique and enriching view of the Region's coasts. Experiencing these sites reminds us of the importance of protecting and preserving these fragile ecosystems.