Buchan Caves
The Buchan Caves are a group of limestone caves that include the Royal Cave and the Fairy Cave, located south-west of Buchan, in the East Gippsland region of the Australian state of Victoria. They have a total length of between 3 and 4 kilometres (1.9 and 2.5 mi), and six entrances.
| Buchan Caves | |
|---|---|
Fairy Cave | |
Location of Buchan Caves in Victoria | |
| Location | East Gippsland, Victoria, Australia |
| Coordinates | 37°29′44.88″S 148°9′47.16″E |
| Length | 3–4 kilometres (1.9–2.5 mi) |
| Discovery | 1907 (European) |
| Geology | Devonian Limestone |
| Entrances | 6 |
| Show cave opened | Fairy Cave 1907 |
| Show cave length | 400 metres (1,300 ft) |
| Lighting | Electricity |
| Website | Parks Victoria Buchan Caves website |
The Buchan Cave Reserve has been transferred back to the Gunaikurnai Nation and is jointly managed with the state.
The limestone rock at Buchan was laid down during the Devonian period about 300 – 400 million years ago. At the time, the sea covered this area of East Gippsland which was alive with shellfish and coral. Their remains were deposited in layers and over the years compacted to form limestone. The caves were formed by solution of the limestone.
The Buchan Caves are located approximately 360 kilometres (220 mi) east northeast (or six hours' drive) from Melbourne, along the Princes Highway, north of Lakes Entrance. Other caves nearby include Cloggs Cave and New Guinea II cave.