In the mountains just above the sleepy cultural mecca that is Kalk Bay, lies a labyrinth of subterranean caves. Most of the entrances to the caves lie within the Echo Valley National Park, though rumours have it that some of the caves go all the way through to Noordhoek. Once you’re in the caves exploring the endless ins and outs, the rumours start sounding justified. Where: Echo Valley When: 02 December 2006 Who: James Why: To experience a different world Our group consisted of Marc our intrepid leader (Note: always take one of these when doing crazy things, one that knows the route and isn’t a complete nutter always helps too), Simon the bionic man (this man has more strappings and injury’s than Rich, strange but true), James (the boy, for chickening out), Jimmy James (the man, for doing the event and getting us a bit lost - a real man doesn’t ask directions), and Neil the grunter (I’ve never heard so much grunting and groaning with Neil following me through the narrows, I think you need to lose some weight there old chap). Inky was supposed to have done this event, pulled out at the last minute (sane woman). Before doing this event, I had only explored the Robin Hood caves a few times with Nick and Inky. This route is a lot more difficult and it took me deeper and for longer, than anything I had previously done. The entrance to Ronan’s Well lies well short and slightly below the entrance to Robin Hood. So standing outside of Ronan’s well, I had a fair idea of the distances we would have to cover, and in order to get to Robin Hood one has to pass through a +-20 meter section called the Narrows …..and boy was it Narrow. Once past the Narrows, we took a detour to the subterranean “Amphitheatre” which is a large cave big enough to fit a few houses. After having a little picnic followed by a short nap, we eventually ascended to the outside world via Robin Hood. All in all, the trip took us approximately five hours with three hours in the Cave, ... happy times. Check out the pics in the gallery!!! Submitted by Nick on Wed, 2006-11-29 19:51. I believe James is going caving into the Echo Valley caves above Kalk Bay on Saturday night. (It's easier emerging yourself in darkness when it's dark outside too) An old pair of jeans, tough long-sleeve shirt and old comfortable shoes/sandals are recommended. Don't forget a headlamp or a small torch. You won't be taking anything else into the caves, but maybe pack a windbreaker, water and snacks for the hike there and back. (Around 45 minutes each way) Unfortunately I won't make it because of Tour d'Winelands early the next day. Contact James if you're interested in joining him though... it's quite an experience! I should probably mention that the plan is not to do Boomslang Cave. This is serious deep underground caving. Don't worry, it's safe (as long as James doesn't get lost) and you don't need ropes or any equipment.