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Cave · Rožňava, Košice
Gombasek Cave
UNESCO World Heritage cave on the Silica Plateau, known for hair‑thin, straw‑like stalactites 2 to 3 millimeters thick and up to 3 m long that cover the ceiling of some chambers.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Gombasek Cave
Gombasek Cave (Gombasecká jaskyňa) lies on the northern slope of the Silica Plateau, in the territory of the village of Slavec, a few kilometres south of Rožňava. It is part of the caves of the Slovak Karst and Aggtelek, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.
What sets Gombasek apart are its straw stalactites: white, translucent calcite tubes 2 to 3 millimetres thick and up to 3 m long that hang from the ceiling. In some chambers, such as the one named after Ladislav Herényi, one of the discoverers, the straws are so dense they resemble a rain of stone. Nowhere else in Slovakia are they so well preserved.
Besides the straws, the cave has stalactites and stalagmites of other shapes, curtains and calcite crusts. Because of its clean, humid air, Gombasek was the first cave in Slovakia used for speleotherapy, a treatment for respiratory illnesses.
The visit is guided. The formations are fragile and any draft can break them, so the route is conducted carefully and touching is prohibited.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From ticket purchase to exit, allow about one hour.
Best time
During the open season, generally from spring to autumn, with visits at fixed times. Check the schedule before you go.
How to get there
By the road between Rožňava and Plešivec, near Slavec, about 15 km south of Rožňava, with parking next to the entrance.
Tip
Combine Gombasek with Domica on the same day: both are on the Silica Plateau. Bring warm clothing, as the internal temperature is low year‑round.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gombasek Cave
What is special about Gombasek cave?
The straw-like stalactites, 2 to 3 millimeters in thickness and up to 3 m long, preserved like in no other Slovak cave.
Why can’t you touch the formations in Gombasek?
The calcite straws are very thin and fragile, and even an air current can break them. For that reason visits are guided and conducted with care.
Can you visit Gombasek and Domica on the same day?
Yes. Both are on the Silica plateau, south of Rožňava, and can be combined by car.