Coast to Coast - Falvaterra-Pastena Caves Speleological Crossing

Coast to Coast: from cave to cave along the underground river

Coast to Coast is the speleological crossing that, every summer, symbolically unites the Falvaterra Caves and the Pastena Caves, two jewels of the karst landscape in the province of Frosinone, in the heart of the Ciociaria region. The initiative, promoted by the Falvaterra Caves Natural Monument, offers an underground route of approximately 2.5 kilometers that follows the active course of the subterranean river, passing through environments carved into the rock, flooded tunnels, and chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

A commemoration spanning over sixty years

The event is not just an underground adventure, but above all an act of remembrance. Coast to Coast celebrates the first Italian cave-diving exploration, carried out in July 1964 by a very young Lamberto Ferri Ricchi, who was the first to dive through the siphons of the active branch, revealing the hydrological continuity between the two cave systems. That pioneering feat sparked the awareness of the deep bond between Falvaterra and Pastena, which the crossing still makes tangible for participants today.

Nature, science, and environmental protection

The event has a distinct ecological soul: during the descent, participants are encouraged to observe, respect, and protect the underground ecosystem, amidst the clear waters of the Rio Obaco and the limestone formations shaped by time. The day is also an opportunity to visit the Cave-Diving Museum set up at the Visitor Center and to delve into the geological and human history of these places with expert guides.

Who it is for

Due to the demanding nature of the route, the crossing is reserved for experienced speleologists and hikers who are properly equipped and in good physical condition. Participation is by mandatory reservation only, and spots are limited to ensure safety and minimal impact on the underground environment.

An identity-defining event for Falvaterra

Now in its many editions, Coast to Coast has become an identity-defining appointment for the small town of Falvaterra and the entire protected area, attracting caving enthusiasts from all over Lazio and beyond. The event enhances the natural heritage of the Ciociaria region and promotes slow, conscious, and respectful tourism, combining the thrill of adventure with the value of conservation.

• Where: Falvaterra Caves and Pastena Caves, province of Frosinone, Lazio
• When: In the month of July
• Route: Underground crossing of approximately 2.5 km along the subterranean river
• For whom: Experienced speleologists and hikers, by reservation