Caves and Caverns

Magical underground limestone ores are one of the wonders of New South Wales. Glittering limestone stalactites and stalagmites, caused by the ceaseless dripping of limestone-impregnated water over tens of thousands of years, glow eerily in cathedral-like caves. These delicate formations of ribbed columns, frozen cascades, ‘tapestries’ and ‘shawls’ look like part of a subterranean fairyland.

The most famous are the Jenolan Caves. Since being first explored in 1838, several million people have visited them. Situated on a spur of the Great Dividing Range, on the south-west edge of the Blue Mountains, they are open daily for guided tours. The caves are surrounded by a 2416-hectare flora and fauna reserve with walking trails, kiosk, cafe and picnic/barbecue facilities. Accommodation includes the charming Tudor-style guest house, Jenolan Caves House; and Binda Bush Cabins, 8 kilometres from the caves precinct, on the road into the reserve.

The Wombeyan Caves are set in a pleasant valley in the Southern Highlands, 193 kilometres south-west of Sydney. They can be reached from the Wombeyan turn-off, 60 kilometres north-west of Mittagong. From here a well-surfaced but narrow road winds through spectacular mountain scenery. The alternative route (recommended for caravanners) is via Goulburn and Taralga. five of the caves are easily accessible by graded paths They are fully developed for visitors, with steps and handrails, and are open daily or on demand ‘or self-guide, historical and adventure caring tours There is a Visitors Centre and facilities vast *'or camping, as well as family or gruvp accommoda-tion. Walking tracks lead to waterfalls, manta*

Jenolan Caves House pmndes acnmmndanon far visitors to the Jenolan Ctm

lookouts and a spectacular enestone canyon (excellent swimming area)

The Abercrombie Caves we on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, to Hearties south of Bathurst: they can also he accessed from Oberon or GouUwn. Regular pnded and seff-gwde tows of the caws are MbHe. The caves are set a a 2200-hectare wen* winch fstwes the largest nahnal hndge ■ the snurhen newsjdwe swarming, firing and fasadwg n Grew Crwfc same hehuafc nth eneiy of Hob aed time a bn* ana campng bakes.

Australia is best discovered on the road, book your campervan hire for cheaper travel.