Located on the fringe of the Kanangra Boyd National Park, just a short half hour drive from Oberon in NSW's Central West, lie the Jenolan Caves which are the largest caves system in Australia open to the public.
Dated at 340 million years old, the spectacular caves feature some of the oldest and most amazing limestone formations in the world. There are a wide range of activities to try when visiting Jenolan Caves with options for everyone, ranging from abseiling into a cave before crawling your way out through it's many tunnels, to spotting some local wildlife on a relaxing bushwalk.
The Caves
A knowledgeable tour guide can take you through one of the nine show caves available, explaining the formations and highlights of each cave. Cave staff can also help you decide which caves to visit based on age, fitness level and availability, with most tours lasting between one to two hours.
From the "Angel's Wing" in the Temple of Baal to the "Pool of Reflections" in the River cave, there is an abundance of beautiful and unique calcite crystal formations that leave visitors in awe.
There are also the ever-popular adventure caves including the Mammoth, Plughole and Aladdin which reward visitors with some amazing views for their climbing and crawling efforts.
Accommodation
A relaxing stay at Jenolan Caves provides time for you to enjoy the tranquility that the bush has to offer, with a number of accommodation options to suit everyone. From the Gate House Lodge, which is backpacker style and perfect for those on a budget, through to the grandeur of the heritage listed Caves House, there is a room for travellers of all kinds.
Eating
While resting you legs after a cave tour, it's a great chance to sample the cuisine that Jenolan Caves have to offer. Chisholm's Restaurant offers a full buffet breakfast or succulent dinners in the evening, with the restaurant featuring one of the last grand dining rooms in Australia.
For lunches, drinks or snacks, the newly renovated Caves Cafe provides a wide selection of tasty treats. Just remember there is a large amount of wildlife around who would love to share your food, however animals shouldn't be fed.
No matter what the temperature is outside, the temperature inside the caves is a constant 15 degrees celsius, making a visit to Jenolan a good idea all year round.
Aside from the caves, you can enjoy some amazing bushwalks along the Jenolan River or up to Carlotta's Arch, and see plenty of local wildlife including platypus, lizards, rock wallabies, wombats and a wide variety of bird life.
Jenolan Caves are open every day of the year with information and bookings available online at http://www.jenolancaves.org.au/