Caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya
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Caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya - by Management
Description
The Isturitz and Oxocelhaya caves are both known for their geological formations and as a Paleolithic site where a Neanderthal mandible was found. They complex is made of three caves carved into the limestone Gaztelu hill and running roughly parallel one above the other. The Isturitz cave key feature is the "Great Room" with a ceiling as high as 15m which connects to the Oxocelhaya cave through a staircase. The Erberua river flows through the bottom cave. Over 80,000 artefacts including more than 3,000 works of art have been found there and indicate that it was settled as early as 80,000 years ago.
Access & Transport
From Bayonne, drive to Hasparren on the A64/D21 or the D22. Then take the D10 towards the east and the D251 after 1.5km until you reach. The journey only takes 40mins. The txiktxak bus line #13 also goes to Isturits from Bayonne. The stop is at the town hall, about 1km from the caves.
Instructions & Recommendations
The visits are guided and take one hour. You should also plan on arriving 15mins before your schedule tour tie and spending 30mins in the museum 15' walk each way from/to the parking, 1h guided visit and 30mins in the museum + 15mins walk from the parking to the entrance and the same on the way back. It is 14 degrees inside the cave so you may want to bring an extra layer if coming from the beach!
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the cultural and natural heritages of the region and provides economic activity that benefits the local villages.
Conclusion
The Caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya are worth discovering if you are in the area. They blend cultural aspects and natural features that should be of interest to adults and children alike. If you are considering this option on a rainy day, bear in mind that you will not be the only one so it would make more sense to consider a full day exploring the region, maybe combining it with a visit of Espelette village, La Rhune or Saint Jean Pied de Port.
Key positive
A good family activity
Not a long journey from Biarritz / Bayonne
Key negative
Can be crowded on rainy days and when tour / school groups arrive
No guided tours in English (but an information booklet is available)
Suitability
Suitable for all ages The caves are not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:2h
Start of Season 1:Jun, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:15
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:15
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:15
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:15
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:15
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:15
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:15
Start of Season 2:Oct, 01
MONDAY13:45 - 18:15
TUESDAY13:45 - 18:15
WEDNESDAY13:45 - 18:15
THURSDAY13:45 - 18:15
FRIDAY13:45 - 18:15
SATURDAY13:45 - 18:15
SUNDAY13:45 - 18:15
Max total number:5
Max number of adults:2
Min.child age:4
Max.child age:11
Price for family€37