Cova dels Ermitons

Cova dels Ermitons is a karst cave in the municipality of Sales de Llierca, tucked into the Alta Garrotxa region of Girona province. It's a spot where natural landscape and deep archaeological history meet, making it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring the Sant Aniol valley.

Where exactly is the cave located?

The cave mouth sits roughly 2 km north of the village of Sadernes, close to the Castell de Sapesa cliffs and the old Pont d'en Valentí bridge, within the scenic Sant Aniol valley. Alta Garrotxa is known for its limestone rock formations, and Cova dels Ermitons ranks among the most recognizable caves in this part of Catalonia. The site is officially listed as an asset of local cultural interest (BCIL), reflecting its historical significance.

What will you find inside?

The entrance is fairly regular and arch-shaped. The cave itself runs about 70 meters in length, with an 11-meter difference between its lowest and highest points. Inside, geologists have identified seven successive strata, and within them archaeologists uncovered traces of human presence going back thousands of years. Finds include stone tools — scrapers and points — along with animal bones from rhinoceros, goats, and hyenas, showing the cave served as shelter for both early humans and wildlife during the Pleistocene. Higher strata also yielded pottery fragments, including a round-bottomed handled vessel bearing clear burn marks from direct contact with fire, pointing to later periods of use.

What's the archaeological backstory?

The first excavation at Cova dels Ermitons was carried out in 1933 by Catalan researcher Joaquim Danés. His findings drew scholarly attention, and further digs followed in 1970–1971 led by professors A.M. Muñoz and M.L. Pericot. Their work refined the dating of the strata and confirmed that the cave was inhabited or used as far back as the final Middle Paleolithic. Today the site is considered one of the key references for understanding prehistoric settlement in the Girona region.

How do you get there?

The best starting point is the village of Sadernes, from which a walking trail leads into the Sant Aniol valley. The route covers about 2 km through terrain typical of Alta Garrotxa — narrow gorges, limestone cliffs, and dense Mediterranean scrub. Sturdy trekking shoes are worth packing, since the path turns rocky in places and requires extra care near the cave entrance.

When is the best time to visit?

Garrotxa enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with mountain influences, so spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for a visit, with moderate temperatures and quieter trails. Summer heat can make the approach hike tougher, while winter visits call for checking the forecast, since rainfall can affect the condition of the valley paths.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Cova dels Ermitons without a guide? The cave can be reached on foot independently, but given its archaeological value and the natural, unlit interior, it's wise to come prepared — a torch and solid footwear go a long way.

Are excavations still ongoing at the site? The main digs took place in 1933 and again in 1970–1971. The cave remains protected as a local cultural asset, which limits any unregulated excavation or removal of material.

How long does it take to reach the cave from Sadernes? The roughly 2 km walk usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on fitness level and trail conditions.

What are the most notable finds from the cave? Highlights include Middle Paleolithic stone tools and animal remains — among them rhinoceros and hyena bones — as well as later pottery fragments.