The Great Stalactite in a limestone cave near Doolin in Clare can now be viewed by members of the public.
First discovered by cavers in 1962, the Great Stalactite measures 7.3 metres in length, and is estimated to be 500,000 years old. The stalactite made its way into the Guinness Book of Records and after three years of construction work, this geological wonder is accessible to the public.
A twelve flight stairway extends twenty four metres underground, connecting to a ninety metre long walkway which enables visitors to view the stalactite in safety.
Helen Browne of Doolin Cave says that their primary aim was to have as low an impact as possible on the cave.
So that nothing is disturbed and that everything is as it's been for thousands and thousands of years.
Attracting visitors from near and far, group tours are operating throughout the day for the duration of the summer. It is a long way down however and not a trip for the faint hearted, but
The visual reward when you get to this inner chamber is enormous.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 May 2006. The reporter is Cathy Halloran.
