Jenolan Caves

There are two stories that surround the discovery of the Jenolan Caves. One as dull as the poop from its only animal inhabitants – bats – the other involves guns. If you prefer the more sedate tale, it is said that farmer James Whalan came across the caves in 1838 while looking for a few stray cows (yawn).

If an action packed adventure is more your flavour we recommend the version which claims Wahalan discovered the caves while tracking the outlaw James McKeown, an escaped convict and cattle and horse thief who is thought to have used the caves as a hide-out. Shortly after they were unearthed, the caves, then known as the Fish River Caves, fell under the control of the New South Wales Government in 1866.

During early caves tours, guides encouraged visitors to snap themselves off pieces of stalactite and stalagmite as souvenirs (a lack of snow domes and Jenolan tea towels may have contributed to this). Try that today and you could be looking at a serious fine. You can’t even touch them as the natural oil from our skin discolours these precious crystals like boot polish on fine china.

A year’s worth of caves

While the Jenolan Caves village is charming, quaint and in some parts almost Nordic, the caves themselves are nothing short of spellbinding. With over 350 caves in the region it is said you could spend every day of the year in a different cave and still not cover every one of these wonders. If you don’t have a year to spend caving, try a day ticket instead. From as little as $25 per adult or $59 per family, you can wander through the enchanting Chifley, Lucas or Imperial caves, the temple of Baal or even the Pool Of Cerebus.

DIY Adventure or Haunt

While the cave tours on offer are plentiful those who prefer DIY escapes may want to take a self-guided tour of the Devil’s Coach House and the Nettle Cave. An audio guide keeps you company and well informed on this solo expedition. If you fancy a little GI Joe action, then a two-hour Plughole tour which sees you squeezing through slender crevices with a headlamp strapped to your noggin. For fans of the extraordinary, the Mysteries, Legends and Ghosts tour is not to be missed. Let it be said that the village by night is creepier than Michael Jackson’s toiletries bag.

Jenolan Caves House

This grand Victorian guest house is indicative of the villages’ charm. The small but cosy rooms evoke a nostalgic feel, which plays a central role in your weekend away. A dinner and breakfast package will introduce you to Chisholm’s restaurant set in a grand dining room where an a la carte menu and full buffet breakfast awaits. Stock up as caving can burn plenty of fuel. For a more private and roomier stay enquire into Jenolan’s self-contained cottages which are surrounded by impressive flora and fauna. Getting there There is no public transport to Jenolan Caves so, with the exception of a coach tour, driving is your best option. While the road takes you through the picturesque Blue Mountains, a Tom Tom suction cupped to your dash board will get you there in two and a half hours without arguments or threats of divorce. If there is just one-day trip or weekender you do before Christmas, make it out to Jenolan where discovery and beauty await singles, couples or the 2.5 kid crew.

For everything you need to know for a day trip or stay log on to Jenolan Caves or call 1300 763 311

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