Looking for an out-of-the-box adventure this Fall? The Bonnechere Caves located in Eganville, Ontario are just an hour’s drive from downtown Ottawa and offer a glimpse into the ancient world. The caves were formed from limestone at the bottom of a tropical sea 500 million years ago, and are full of coral, fossilized ancient sea creatures, and beautiful photo-ops, like waterfalls and interesting rock formations.
The caves operate from early May to October, with hour-long self-guided tours running from 11am to 3pm on weekdays, and 10am-3pm on weekends through September. Tours follow a maintained walkway throughout the caves, passing a sink-hole and a multitude of ancient sites, leading to a park, picnic area, and souvenir shop.
For visitors coming in late September to October, early hibernating bats can be seen in the caves—an exciting opportunity for animal lovers and geological-enthusiasts alike to get closer to the life cycles in nature.
The Bonnechere Caves are a family-owned and operated business, first officially discovered and explored by Tom Woodward in 1955. Informational tours have been a more recent addition, with many online testimonials recounting childhood experiences of exploring the caves unattended—this Ontario landmark is now open for public viewing, with safely installed pathways leading throughout the complex underground cave system.
Reviewers cite the passionate and knowledgeable experience provided by the staff, “Amazing tour! Great guides and a fantastic host. Hats off to Chris and the Bonnechere Caves!” writes Ross. “The tour was well-organized, informative and fresh. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The prices are reasonable and pictures are breath-taking. I’ve travelled to several parts of the World, but was just reminded today that you really don’t have to venture off very far to capture the spirit, the passion and exuberance of Nature’s overwhelming power to captivate, intrigue and spark the adventurous side that lies in us all,” states another reviewer, Jeff. Site-owner Chris maintains the caves and runs many of the tours himself, expanding the underground space into a venue for unique dining, events, and even wedding ceremonies.
To learn more about the unique Bonnechere Cave experience, visit their website at http://www.bonnecherecaves.com/.
