Caves are found in most counties of Ireland and come in many shapes and sizes.

Pollnagollum is over 14km long and Reyfad Pot is the deepest cave at 193m.

The largest free hanging stalactite is 7 metres and the deepest entrance shaft is 80m.

In each county, caves often have a typical form:

• Many caves are wet and exploration is by following a stream eg. Clare.
• Other caves are dry and muddy eg. Cork and Tipperary.
• Some have vertical sections known as 'pitches', where ropes and/or ladders are used for exploration. These are called 'potholes' , eg. Fermanagh.

The type of cave you are exploring will dictate the type of clothing, experience and equipment you will need.