| Product: |
Aillwee Cave |
| Date: |
04.10.07 (94 review reads) |
| Rating: |
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Advantages: Quite interesting and good for kids
Disadvantages: Bit out in the wilderness you definitely need a car and a decent map.
Having lastly written about a rock, I’m now going to write about a cave. This cave is Aillwee Cave which is in The Burren, which is north west of Limerick in Ireland.
The Burren is effectively a very large rock that has been shaped by acid rain. This type of landscape is classified as Karst, and a feature of Karst landscapes is the evolution of underground caves / drainage systems.
Aillwee Cave is one of these drainage systems, and is suspected to be one of the oldest caves in Ireland. The bit that you are taken around is the best part of a mile long and is pretty flat so not very strenuous. Also as you go around there are regular stops where the guide lights up different parts of the cave with strategically placed lights. Apparently there were bears living in the cave before, however it wasn’t them that put the lights up.
There are some remains however of the bears, also there are interesting formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and one big waterfall. The other part of the cave is longer but not accessible by groups, however I’m sure if you had the right gear and a few spare quid they would let you try and get through the other section. However it’s very tight and there are a few underwater sections, I think the guide said only about 3 people have ever done it.
On the main tour there are a few bridges to cross, which is a bit scary as it’s quite dark down there, maybe worth taking a torch if you don’t plan on being at the front. The cave is a constant 10 degrees Celsius, however it’s certainly not cold. There is also a good bit at the end of the tour which makes you realise where you are. The tour itself is about 40 minutes
At 12 Euros entry fee for an adult (5.50 Euros for a child) it’s worth the money as you also get to explore the local landscape on a mountain walk or a more fun walk more suited to children. Plus there’s a farm shop and craft shop, and also a restaurant.
It’s a bit in the middle of nowhere and you keep thinking you’ve gone too far but it is well signposted, you definitely need a car and a good nervous system as some of the corners are very tight and you can’t see much of what’s coming towards you.
All in all the cave is very good and not claustrophobic. It’s a good introduction to caving, and you may end up getting a taste for proper caving and potholing.
Summary: Good value for money and there's lots to do on site
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