MOLE CREEK KARST NATIONAL PARK

168 kilometers northwest of Hobart, Mole Creek National Park was established in 1996 to protect a system of over 300 caves and sinkholes - two of which - King Solomons and Marakoopa - are popular caves open to the public. It is the only national park in Tasmania created specifically to protect karst landforms. It is named after the river and the community of the same name, Mole Creek. Tours organized by the rangers lead to the most famous caves, King Solomons and Marakoopa. They can only be visited with a guide. Both caves are home to fascinating animals that have adapted to this karst environment. The glowing carpet of glowworms in the Marakoopa caves is the largest publicly accessible in Australia. Don't miss the guided tour of the caves, but also take the opportunity to walk through the beautiful forest that surrounds them.

Marakoopa Cave. It presents a whole underground world with glow worms, large caverns, pools and reflections. It was discovered in 1910 by two children who were going up the river. They explored the cave with candles and kept the place secret for two and a half years. It was in 1912 that it was opened to tourism. "Marakoopa" is a Tasmanian aboriginal word meaning "beautiful". After a tour of the cave, you'll understand why it was so named!

Guided tours last approximately 45 minutes. There are two tours of this cave:

"Underground Rivers and Glowworms" : visit the lower chamber to be dazzled by the sparkling crystals and refreshing pools of stalactites. Take time to listen to the music of the underground rivers and absorb the silence at certain passages. This tour is suitable for all ages and physical conditions.

"The Cathedral, Gardens and Glowworms": the magnificent cavern known as the "Great Cathedral" is the highlight of the tour not to be missed. The gardens have delicate formations and beautiful colors. A good physical condition is necessary for this part in order to climb the steps to the Great Cathedral.

King Solomons Cave. King Solomons Cave is filled with features and decorated with stalactites and stalagmites. The tours last approximately 45 minutes and are accessible to all physical conditions.