Cueva de los Verdes, Costa Teguise

Nestled within the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, in the city of Costa Teguise, Spain, lies the mesmerizing Cueva de los Verdes, a cave system that offers a unique subterranean experience. This natural wonder, formed by the eruption of the Monte Corona volcano around 3,000 years ago, is part of a larger network of underground tunnels and caves known as the Atlantida Tunnel.

The Cueva de los Verdes extends for about 7 kilometers above sea level and descends another 1.5 kilometers below the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. Visitors to this enchanting site are greeted with an array of geological features including stalactites, stalagmites, and the intricate flow of solidified lava.

The cave's interior is dramatically lit, highlighting the various colors and formations within the rock and creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the cave's formation, history, and the unique ecosystem that thrives in the darkness. The tour culminates in an impressive concert hall, a testament to the cave's excellent acoustics, where musical performances are occasionally held.

Cueva de los Verdes is not only a natural marvel but also a cultural treasure, as it once served as a hideout for locals during pirate invasions. The cave's name, which translates to "Green's Cave," is believed to be derived from a family that used the cave for shelter and as a pastoral refuge.

For those planning a visit, the Cueva de los Verdes is open to the public year-round, with tours conducted in multiple languages. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven terrain, and visitors are advised to bring a light jacket as the temperature inside the cave remains cool.