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On the Trail of Martel Adventure Day

On the trail of Martel 

Edouard Martel played a significant role in shaping the science of speleology and pioneered many aspects of early modern cave exploration, including the first recorded scientific exploration of the Marble Arch Caves systems in 1895. We are offering a bespoke experience which begins with an insightful and captivating talk delivered by Richard Watson as he retells the great story behind Edouard Martel’s exploration of the Marble Arch Caves over 127 years ago!

Discover first-hand what this exploration of the cave system would have felt like when you join our experienced Cave Leader to travel into the depths of the Marble Arch Caves armed with just a caving helmet with light!  Negotiate boulder chambers, clamber through dark tunnels, travel into the rarely seen areas of the cave system. Travel where time stands stills, where a simple cave formation can take hundreds of years to grow just 1cm and chambers look as they did thousands of years ago.

This event includes a 60-minute talk, a pre-activity brunch in the Marble Arch Cafe followed by a 2-hour caving trip, off the beaten path within the Marble Arch Caves.

 Sessions

Session from 11am – 3:15pm

Timetable: Information session around Edouard Martels first exploration of the Marble Arch Caves 11am – 12pm. Brunch at the Marble Arch Caves Café 12:15pm – 12:45pm You will meet your Cave Instructor at 12:45 pm who will distribute and brief you on the caving gear and provide time to change. You will enter the cave around 1:15pm, the trip will take maximum 2- hours before returning to the visitor centre for 3:15pm to return gear and change. Marble Arch Cave Cafe will provide (Tea/coffee, soup & sandwiches for the brunch)

What will you need?

We shall provide the essentials: Caving helmet, caving light, gloves and caving over suit. All you need to bring is an old set of warm clothes (we suggest you wear layers with no jeans or short sleeved tops) that you don’t mind getting muddy or damp. These will be worn under your caving suit. Wellingtons are also required (with warm socks), please bring your own and ensure they are a good fitting.

It is advisable to bring a towel and change of clothes to change back into after your trip.

 Minimum age:

This event is adult only (18years +)

Fitness/Ability Requirements:

The Adventure Caving trip is aimed for those wishing to “give caving a go”, so no previous caving experience is required. However, the trip requires walking, stooping and crawling. You must feel able to undertake approximately 2 hours of moderate physical exertion and be willing to complete a confidential medical/emergency contact form on registration disclosing any illnesses/conditions/medications for your Cave Leader awareness.

How to book:

In the eventuality of the event having to be cancelled due to inclement weather full refunds will be provided.

 

On the Trail of  Martel Adventure Day
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Date: 03/09/2022 - 03/09/2022
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Time: 11:00am
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Location: Marble Arch Caves
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Duration: Approximately 3 hours
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Ability Level: Suitable for persons who have no previous caving experience
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Accessibility: Adult Only Event
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Booking Information: Event Price: £47.00 per person
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Group Bookings & Private Tours

Contact us on

+44 (0) 28 66321815
mac@fermanaghomagh.com