La Cueva del Gato.
Cueva del Gato
by Chris Wawn, Dave Wood and John Gill
The entrance of this cave can be seen from the railway as it heads north from the station two kilometres away. It's called the cave of the cat as its entrance is said to look like a cat's head. Perhaps it does, though the present author failed to see it.
This cave is the terminus of an underground river that rises four kilometres away as the Rio Guaduares, which takes an underground route from the other side of Montejaque, from the Cueva de Hundidero ('fallen'), only recommended to skilled potholers. Famed for its potholing experience, it has been the scene of many deaths as rising waters trapped the unprepared.
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| Cueva del Gato entrance |
However, for the curious, El Gato is a pleasant walk to an impressive limestone cave entrance. The entrance, by the way, is as far as you should go. A sign prohibits entry without official permission, and although there is neither a physical barrier nor an armed guard to enforce the prohibition, it is wise to obey it.To reach the cave entrance on foot do not follow the railway towards Ronda, but cross over railway and river just south of the Benoaján station. On the other side, a map marks the route along a double track, to the left. This passes under the new road bridge and follows the river and railway line. Very near the entrance, an official crossing allows you to cross over again and enter the cave, with its fast flowing water. Alternatively, you can take a car on the road which passes nearby. A short but steep five minute walk reaches the river and the deep plunge pool where hikers cool off in high summer.
The cave is of archaeological importance, although it has been heavily excavated and the remains removed. It's a lovely spot to visit during the heat of the summer and the leafy pool makes a welcome break from the sun. Its waters are pure, unlike the Guadiaro, and so bathers come from vast distances. To the caver, entry to the actual system is best from the Montejaque side and requires various permits and a qualified guide.
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