Can You Drive Through a Cave? Discover these World's Unique Roads
There are a few roads in the world that actually run through natural caves. These rare roads offer a unique experience. The caves through which these roads pass are not tunnels created by humans, but natural rock formations formed millions of years ago.
In addition to these true cave roads, there are other roads around the world that pass through tunnels resembling caves. One such example is the Guoliang Tunnel in China. While these tunnel roads have a similar appearance to caves, they are man-made and not natural. In California, there is also a road that runs through the old Reward Mine. Though not a cave, this road gives drivers a chance to travel through a historic mining site.
Roads Through Caves Still in Use
Jenolan Caves, Australia
Located in the Blue Mountains, the Jenolan Caves are among the largest and most famous in Australia. The Jenolan Caves Road runs for 150 meters (492 feet) through the Grand Arch, a massive cave opening. Although the road is accessible, it has been subject to damage from natural events, such as storms and floods. The caves themselves have been open to the public for over 150 years and are a well-known landmark in the region.
Grotte du Mas d'Azil, France
The Grotte du Mas d'Azil in southwestern France is a natural cave that has a 420-meter-long tunnel through which the RN 119 road passes. The road runs directly through this impressive cave, offering a rare opportunity to drive through a natural structure formed by the Arize River. Though the road is paved, there is a speed limit and restrictions for larger vehicles. The cave is well-lit, but cars are required to use headlights while passing through.
La Cuevona, Spain
Located in Asturias, Spain, La Cuevona is a natural cave that features a 300-meter (984-foot) paved road known as the RS-3 Road, providing the only access to the village of Cuevas del Agua. Due to its narrow and winding nature, it is not recommended during busy periods. The cave offers a spectacular experience, with its stalactites and stalagmites, making it a unique and memorable destination for both drivers and walkers.
Hayama 2nd Tunnel, Japan
Hayama 2nd Tunnel in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan, runs through a limestone cave on Prefectural Road 300. Formed by the Shimaki River, the tunnel was manually constructed about 100 years ago. It’s short, unlit, and has a maximum height of 2.5 meters, making it unsuitable for large vehicles. The road is fully paved but narrow, allowing only one vehicle at a time. Drivers must exercise caution due to limited visibility and tight turns.
Tunel Ponikve, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tunel Ponikve, located near Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a unique road tunnel that runs through the natural Ponikva Cave. Modified to accommodate a two-lane paved road, a sidewalk, and lighting, it is part of the R444 road and supports heavy truck traffic. Despite its functionality, the cave is home to bats, prompting a distinctive "attention bats" road sign to warn drivers of the wildlife sharing this remarkable route.
Pohara Natural Bridge
The Pohara Natural Bridge, also known as the Tarakohe Archway, is a natural limestone cave on New Zealand's South Island, near the Tasman Sea. Formed over time and once quarried for cement, it now serves as a rare road tunnel along Abel Tasman Drive. Fully paved for safe passage, the scenic route requires careful driving around Tarakohe Rock. Nearby attractions include the Tarakohe Wharf and its stunning coastal surroundings.
Abandoned Roads Through Caves
The following roads, which once passed through caves or natural rock formations, are no longer in use for vehicles. Over time, these routes have been abandoned, closed for environmental reasons, or rendered impassable due to natural decay. While they can no longer be driven, they remain remarkable for their unique histories and natural features, attracting visitors for exploration on foot or as scenic landmarks.
Grotte di San Giovanni, Italy
Grotta San Giovanni, located in Domusnovas, Sardinia, features an 850-meter-long road that was built in the 19th century for mining transport. Though once open to vehicles, the road was closed in the 1980s due to environmental concerns. Today, visitors can walk along the paved path inside the cave, which connects Domusnovas to the nearby Valley of Oridda.
Dobroselički Prerast, Serbia
Dobroselički Prerast, located on Zlatibor Mountain in Serbia, is a 48-meter-long through-cave known as one of the largest stone bridges in the country. Once featuring a road, the path is now abandoned, replaced by a footpath. Hidden and challenging to locate without a map, it remains a rare natural attraction, drawing tourists and climbers for its scientific and scenic significance. Access requires navigation, as no signs mark its remote location.
Onbashi Bridge, Japan
Onbashi Bridge, located in Hiroshima Prefecture, spans the scenic Taishaku Gorge and is one of the largest natural limestone bridges in the world. Formed by river erosion over thousands of years, it stands 40 meters above the riverbed and measures 90 meters in length. Historically, it served as a road for people, horses, and carriages. Today, it is a designated National Natural Monument and a popular site for visitors.
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