Vjetrenica Cave

One of the great karst caves of Europe, near Zavala

The most biologically diverse single cave in the world: over 250 species recorded, including the largest known number of strictly cave-adapted (troglobite) species of any cave system. Among them are the blind cave fish (Salaria sceptella), several endemic cave shrimps, and the curious cave-dwelling olm — a pale, long-lived amphibian found only in this part of the Dinaric karst.

The visitor section is about 1km of fully lit, level walkway through huge chambers with stalactites, stalagmites, columns and the trademark Vjetrenica draught. Guided tours run several times daily in summer, less frequently in winter; the cave is in Ravno municipality, about an hour's drive west of Trebinje. Modest entrance fee, includes the guide. Wear warm clothing — the cave is around 11°C year round.

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A story
Vjetrenica means 'wind cave' — the constant draught from the entrance is what drew the first naturalists in the 17th century. The cave's biological inventory now stands at over 250 species, around 100 of them strictly cave-dwelling, more than any other cave on earth. The blind cave fish, the cave shrimp and several cave-dwelling beetles were first scientifically described here.

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