Caving in the Arouca Geopark mines near Porto

Located about an hour’s drive from Porto, the Arouca Geopark boasts an outstanding geological heritage. It is home to remarkable natural phenomena such as the famous “stones that give birth to stones” (Pedras Parideiras) — unusual, to say the least. Yet some of this unique place’s greatest secrets lie underground. To uncover the story of tungsten, tin and gold mining carried out by past generations, you quite literally have to go beneath the surface. That is exactly what this caving experience in the Arouca Geopark offers.

Lasting around 2.5 hours in total, your excursion begins with a jeep drive through the geopark to reach the mine. Along the way, your guide will point out places of interest and some of the finest viewpoints over the Paiva Valley. Once you arrive near the mine, it will be time to gear up for your caving activity near Arouca.

Equipped with a helmet and headlamp, you will enter the mine following your guide. During the visit, they will explain the past mining operations that took place here — tungsten (wolfram), tin and even gold. Tungsten in particular was widely used in weapon production, especially during the Second World War. You will learn about extraction methods, practical applications, socio-economic impacts and the influence these mining concessions had on regional development.

More than just a caving trip in the Arouca Geopark, this activity offers a genuine immersion in the region’s history and landscapes. So why wait? Book this guided excursion with caving and a jeep tour through the Paiva Valley and set off on an underground adventure!