The Marble Arch Caves UNESCO GlobalGeopark is located in the rugged mountainous uplands and the gentle rolling lowlands of counties Fermanagh and Cavan. It is one of 127 UNESCO Global Geoparks across 35 countries worldwide, and only the second UNESCO designated site in Northern Ireland.
The status is awarded in recognition of the area’s internationally important rocks and landscapes and how they are utilised for sustainable tourism.
The geopark boasts more than 50 stunning sites including breathtaking viewpoints, magical waterfalls, wonderful wetlands, and fantastic forests. Key sites include the Cavan Burren Park, one of the finest integrated prehistoric landscapes in Ireland; Lough Navar Forest, which boasts one of the finest vistas in Ireland; Shannon Pot, the surface rising of the longest river in Ireland; Pollnagollum Cave, which was used as a film location in Game of Thrones, all of which are open all year round; and the world-famous Marble Arch Caves, which opens from March to November.
The Marble Arch Caves are among Europe’s finest show caves and allow visitors to explore a fascinating natural underworld of rivers, winding passages, and lofty chambers. Lively and informative guides conduct tours past a bewildering variety of cave formations. Stalactites glisten above steamways and chambers, while fragile mineral veils and cascades of creamy calcite coat walls and create shimmering terraces.
Explore the informative exhibition area in the visitor centre. Watch the free audiovisual presentation, browse the diverse range of products available in the gift shop.
Spectacular walkways allow easy access, while powerful lighting reveals the stunning beauty and grandeur of the caves. Electrically powered boats glide through the huge caverns, carrying visitors along a subterranean river.
After your guided tour, take a leisurely stroll through the Marble Arch National Nature Reserve. For little children (and big children ), ask at reception for a free worksheet to complete the fun fossil trail in the car park, or see what insects and plants you can identify in the wildflower knoll at the rear of the centre.
Dust off your scariest Halloween costume and join the underground, spine-chilling, nail-biting, hair-raising, Marble Arch Caves experience at the Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday October 28 and Sunday October 29. Booking is essential, so contact the Visitor Centre to avoid disappointment.
Call +44 (0 ) 28 66 34 8855 or emailmac@fermanaghomagh for more details. The Marble Arch Caves are open from March to November, check the website for opening dates and times, www.marblearchcaves.geopark.com Telephone booking is advisable.
