Frasassi: a family adventure in the caves

Do you remember our slow weekend in the Marche region in that charming private reserve? Well, we did not spend the entire weekend sunbathing and getting massages. Only half an hour away from our Resort, there is indeed one of the most beautiful attractions in this region. I am talking about the Frasassi Caves, the largest underground cave complex in Europe.

This is a truly magical place, that extends for about 30 km over eight levels full of stalactites and stalagmites, crystallized ponds, tunnels, rocks and minerals. It is strictly forbidden to take photographs, so I cannot describe its beauty through images. However, the Caves Organization allowed me to use the three shots you see in this article, so you can get an idea of how stunning the caves are.  Once you get in, it is like walking through an upside-down world, where time and space become blurred concepts: you’ll completely lose your orientation and size awareness.

©Piero Principi

The Caves

The first “room” you visit is called Ancona Abyss. It is huge, among the largest caves in Europe. It is so big that it could easily contain the entire Duomo of Milan. In the centre, your eyes will be caught by a group of ancient stalagmites called The Giants, as they are about 20 mt tall and their diameter ranges from 2 to 5 meters.

©Piero Principi

As you progress, you will visit several other caves,  each one with wonderful corners to discover and mineral masterpieces coming in different shapes and sizes: for example, Niagara Falls, a huge mass made of pure calcite, so white that shines like a big diamond; or rock formations that will remind you of castles, swords, obelisks, organ pipes, camels and whatever your fantasy will see …

The most beautiful room? Definitely the Hall of Candles. Pure magic.

The Candle Halls. ©Piero Principi

The visit

The ticket office is located about one km from the entrance of the caves, which can be reached with a free shuttle service. The Caves can be visited only by guided tour. Every 10 minutes a group of about 50 people, together with a professional guide, is allowed to enter into the caves. To get in, you will walk through an artificial tunnel of about 200 meters, crossing several watertight doors, to maintain a constant internal temperature (which is of 14°, so it is also essential to wear a sweater even in summer). The time of the visit is printed on the ticket.

©Piero Principi

In addition to the standard path, there are two alternative routes, which provide access to a few caves that cannot be visited through the normal guided tour.

There is the Blue Route,  which is suitable for everyone, adults and children (minimum age: 12 years old). It takes about two hours and involves easy climbing, tunnels and natural slides. The second path is called the Red Route and is indicated for those who have already experienced the Blue Route or for those who feel particularly adventurous. The Red Route takes about 3 hours and it involves a 30-meter “jump” (to be made, of course, properly harnessed), crawling through tiny tunnels and a bit of slippery climbing.

If you want to give it a try,  you need to book at least a week in advance,  writing an email to booking@frasassi.com. The Blue Route costs 35 Euros per person, while the Red Route costs 45 euro per person. The fee includes the guide and all the necessary gear.

Booking.com

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