The Treasure Cave in Rincon de la Victoria: The unique sea cave on the Costa del Sol

Nestled in the cliffs of El Cantal in Rincon de la Victoria, the Treasure Cave is one of only three known sea caves in the world. Formed over thousands of years by the erosive action of the Mediterranean Sea, this geological wonder holds a fascinating legacy of history, archaeology and legend. Its name evokes the mystery of a supposed treasure hidden by a member of the Almohad royalty – a secret that has captured the imagination of explorers and visitors for centuries.

Visiting the Treasure Cave is far more than a simple underground walk: it is a unique sensory experience that combines spectacular rock formations, prehistoric remains, an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Noctiluca and the thrilling story of the Swiss explorer who spent decades searching for the lost treasure. With a free audioguide that you can download to your own smartphone, the visit is accessible, educational and perfect for the whole family. It is one of the best activities in the province of Malaga when you are looking for something authentic, different and of great cultural value.

Do not miss the opportunity to discover this living treasure of the Costa del Sol. A visit that awakens the curiosity of young and old alike, ideal to combine with a stroll along the coastline of Rincon de la Victoria or the nearby Roman Villa of Antiopa. Book in advance and prepare for an unforgettable adventure underground.

*Opening times and prices may change. We recommend checking the official websites.

Vrouw maakt een selfie in de Cueva del Tesoro in Rincón de la Victoria — Een bezoekster maakt een selfie in de Cueva del Tesoro in Rincón de la Victoria (Málaga).

Explore the most fascinating areas of the Treasure Cave

The visit takes you through different rooms and galleries, each with its own personality, history and geological surprises. Here is a detailed guide to the highlights:

Area of the Rock Paintings and Prehistoric Remains

At the beginning of the tour you will find a small exhibition of archaeological finds that testify to human presence in the cave since the Palaeolithic and Bronze Age. Samples of rock art and ceramics have been documented, proving that this natural space served as a shelter and ritual site thousands of years ago. It is the perfect starting point to understand the heritage value of this enclave before venturing into the deeper galleries.

Recommended at the start of the visit • Easy access • Ideal for contextualising the cave’s history

The Swiss Well and the Hall of the Virgin

This area owes its name to Antonio de la Nari, a Swiss explorer who spent nearly 30 years searching for the legendary Almohad treasure. Using dynamite, he opened new galleries and excavated the famous Swiss Well. Tragically, he died in 1847 in one of his own explosions. For decades the cave was popularly known as Cueva del Suizo. Today his story is an inseparable part of the identity of the place and adds a touch of adventure and mystery to the tour.

Area with strong historical and legendary significance • Must-see stop on the route

Area of the Eagle

One of the most photographed formations in the cave. A natural rock that, due to its silhouette and position, clearly resembles an eagle with its wings spread. This room shows the incredible work of marine erosion over the centuries and demonstrates how nature can sculpt almost perfect figures. A perfect moment to pause, observe and let your imagination soar.

Spectacular rock formation • Good lighting • High visual appeal

Noctiluca Area – The Temple of the Mediterranean Goddess

One of the most evocative zones. Here, remains of ash from sacrificed animals were found, suggesting that this space may have functioned as a temple dedicated to Noctiluca, the Mediterranean goddess of the night, the sea and moonlight. This deity was especially venerated in antiquity and today has a beautiful statue on the seafront promenade of Rincon de la Victoria. The atmosphere of this room invites reflection and connects the present with the ancient rituals of the Costa del Sol.

Mystical atmosphere • Connection with Mediterranean mythology • Highly recommended for history lovers

Hall of the Lakes and Deep Areas (including the Volcano Area)

This is the widest and most spectacular part of the cave. The Hall of the Lakes, formed from the old Cueva del Suizo, impresses with its dimensions and the mirrors of water that reflect the stalactites and stalagmites. In the deeper zones there is a noticeable increase in temperature – a natural phenomenon that adds intensity to the experience. It is the widest and most photogenic stretch of the tour.

The widest and most spectacular area • Lakes • Temperature increase in the deep galleries

Approximate duration of the full visit: 45–75 minutes. The visit is conducted with a free audioguide that you can download to your mobile phone (headphones recommended). Limited capacity, booking required.

Opening times, prices and ticket booking

Opening times

Winter (1 October – 30 April)
Morning: 10:00 – 13:00 (closing 14:00)
Afternoon: 15:00 – 17:00 (closing 18:00)

Summer (1 May – 30 September)
Morning: 10:30 – 13:00 (closing 14:00)
Afternoon: 16:30 – 19:00 (closing 20:00)

Closed on 24, 25 and 31 December, 1 and 6 January.

Ticket prices (general visit)

Children 0-3 years: Free
Children 4-14 years: £4
Adults 15-64 years: £6
Senior citizens: £4
Youth or student card: £4
People with disabilities: £4
Residents of Rincon de la Victoria: £3
Unemployed: £2
Large families: £2

*Opening times and prices may change. We recommend checking the official websites before your visit.

Free visits: Monday to Friday in the first opening slot (10:00 in winter / 10:30 in summer) with prior booking (maximum 25 people). Also free on 6 June and 27 September.

Theatrical visit: Last Sunday of each month (two performances at 11:00 and 12:30). Ideal for families.

Booking required: entradas.turismoenrincon.es or telephone 952 406 162.

How to get to the Treasure Cave

The Treasure Cave is located at Avenida de Picasso 21, 29730 Rincon de la Victoria (El Cantal), just 10-12 km from the centre of Malaga and about 15 minutes from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. It is one of the easiest and most recommended excursions from any point on the eastern Costa del Sol.

Car hire in Malaga to visit the Treasure Cave

Car hire: the most flexible option

From Malaga city or the airport, take the A-7 motorway eastbound. Recommended exit: Rincon de la Victoria / La Cala del Moral. Free parking right in front of the cave. Ideal if you want to combine the visit with other stops in Axarquia or the capital.

Hire a car in Malaga

Private transfer or taxi to the Treasure Cave

Taxi or private transfer: comfort from wherever you are

The best option if you are travelling with children, older people or prefer maximum comfort. A quick and direct journey from the centre of Malaga, the airport or any accommodation on the Costa del Sol.

Book a taxi or transfer

*You do not need to enter your credit card details or pay in advance. We recommend booking with sufficient notice.

Other transport options

U kunt de grot ook bereiken met de bus van het vervoersconsortium van Málaga. De lijnen M-160, M-163, M-260 en M-363 stoppen direct bij de halte „Cantal Bajo – Cueva del Tesoro”. De rit vanaf het busstation van Málaga duurt afhankelijk van het verkeer tussen 35 en 50 minuten. Als u met de trein aankomt op de stations Málaga María Zambrano of Málaga Centro-Alameda, kunt u verder reizen met een bus van het consortium of met een taxi naar Rincón de la Victoria.

Practical tips

✓ Booking in advance is compulsory via the official website (entradas.turismoenrincon.es). Places are limited.
✓ Download the free audioguide to your mobile phone before you arrive (headphones recommended).
✓ Wear comfortable shoes with non-slip soles. There are sections with stairs and uneven ground.
✓ The temperature inside is cool and constant. Bring a light jacket even in summer.
✓ The visit lasts approximately 45 to 75 minutes.
✓ Perfect for families. There is a theatrical visit on the last Sunday of each month.
✓ Combine it with a walk along the seafront promenade of Rincon de la Victoria and the statue of the goddess Noctiluca.
✓ Free parking and toilets available.
✗ Not fully accessible for wheelchairs (only the first room has a lift).

Frequently asked questions about the Treasure Cave

Do I need to book a ticket in advance to visit the Treasure Cave?

Yes, booking is compulsory for safety reasons and to control visitor numbers. You can book online at entradas.turismoenrincon.es or by calling 952 406 162. The free visits in the first hour have very limited places (maximum 25 people).

What are the opening times of the Treasure Cave?

Winter (1 October – 30 April): morning 10:00–13:00 and afternoon 15:00–17:00. Summer (1 May – 30 September): morning 10:30–13:00 and afternoon 16:30–19:00. Closed on 24, 25 and 31 December, 1 and 6 January.

Is the cave accessible for people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users?

No, it is not fully accessible. There is a lift to the first room, but the rest of the route has stairs. People with reduced mobility can visit the first room without any problem.

How much does it cost to visit the Treasure Cave?

Adults (15-64 years): £6. Children 4-14 years, senior citizens and students: £4. Children 0-3 years: free. There are additional discounts for residents, unemployed people and large families. Check current prices on the official website.

How long does a visit to the Treasure Cave last?

The guided visit with audioguide lasts approximately 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the pace of the group. It is a comfortable and well-signposted experience.

Are there free visits to the Treasure Cave?

Yes. Monday to Friday there is free entry in the first opening slot (with prior booking and limited to 25 people). It is also free on 6 June and 27 September.

Can I visit the Treasure Cave with small children?

Yes, it is a highly recommended activity for families. Children usually enjoy the rock formations, the lakes and the treasure story very much. There is also a theatrical visit on the last Sunday of each month specially designed for families.