Bermuda is truly like no other place in the world. That being said, it should be no surprise there are underground caves in Bermuda. You may already know that recreational diving is popular in the cenotes of the Yucatan in Mexico or caves in Palau Thailand. However, in Bermuda the caves have been greatly protected. Recreational scuba diving or even swimming in Bermuda caves is against the law. . . Well, unless you have your own cave.
formation of caves
Karst landscape: Most caves form in karst landscapes, which are commonly limestone, dolomite, and gypsum.
Chemical Weathering: Rainwater penetrates picks up carbon dioxide from the air. That rainwater is then a weak acid that soaks into the ground and slowly dissolves the landscape. The rocks begin to form cracks and fractures that widen over time to form caverns and caves.
Erosion: Underground caves can also form through erosion processes, where water flow or underground rivers gradually carve out passages and chambers in the rock.
Key features of Caves
Stalactites and Stalagmites: Overtime these mineral rich water drips and drop build up over time. Stalactites are the formations from ceiling and stalagmites form from the ground up.
Columns: When a stalactite and stalagmite grow together and merge, they form a column, creating stunning natural sculptures in the cave.
Flowstones: When water flows over the walls and floors, layers of minerals solidify over time. These are called flowstones.
Draperies: My favorite formation. Draperies are extremely thin, curtain-like formations that often form a wave pattern. They hang from ceilings and walls and are just stunning.
Underground Pools and Lakes: Last but not least, of course over thousands of years caves can create underground pools and even lakes.
Caves to Explore
Blue Hole Park
(Free) While Blue Hole Park is not a traditional cave system as described, it is an amazing spot! Inside this nature reserve you may discover sinkholes, caves, mangroves and more.
Further down the nature trail starts the adventure of Tom Moore’s Jungle. Here several more limestone caves and sinkholes waiting to be explored.
Cathedral Cave
(Free) Located on Grotto Bay Resort property there is Cathedral Cave. Travelers are allowed use their parking lot to explore the cave. If you are facing the building, take the trail to the left. Within a two minute walk you will see a small warning sign, that is the cave entrance.
Crystal and Fantasy Cave
The most popular cave attractions in Bermuda are the Crystal and Fantasy Caves. Here visitors are able to take guided tours to not only explore the caves, but to learn about their history, formation and unique features.
Make sure to get a fish sandwich at Cafe Ole after the tour.
Visiting the caves in Bermuda provides a fascinating insight into the island’s geological features, hidden underground worlds, and the wonders of nature that lie beneath the surface.
Planning a trip to Bermuda? Check out my Ultimate Bermuda Travel Guide.
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