Caving Sites

To some, the idea of delving beneath the surface of the earth and exploring its dark subterranea is a terrifying prospect. To others it is an extension of our innate desire to explore the world around us. However, caving (or spelunking as it is known in the US) is something which captures our imagination whether we're brave enough to descend into the darkness or not. It's a non-competitive team sport that challenges its participants both physically and psychologically, and there are a great number of online resources devoted to its practise. As compiled by our judging panel, the following list is a useful collection of sites for those within the caving community, and an awe-inspiring assortment for those of us stuck on the surface to enjoy.

• Caverinfo

  http://www.caverinfo.com/

  Caverinfo is one of the most prominent caving sites in the online community, consistently bringing us the latest news, articles and reviews on the caving scene and written with a great deal of passion on the subject

• Caves & Caving in Thailand

  http://www.thailandcaves.shepton.org.uk/

  Martin's ongoing guide on Thailand's various caves is as extensive as it is useful. A sometimes overlooked location, the site will help you prepare for the caving adventures the country promises its visitors

• WinsterCavers

  http://www.winstercavers.org.uk/

  A fantastic travelogue and guide site on all aspects of caving and much more, WinsterCavers captures the spirit of adventure held close to the hearts of nature and geology enthusiasts

• Tarquin's Collective Caving Site

  http://www.cavinguk.co.uk/

  It's not the most aesthetically stunning of all caving sites, but measured by its sheer content quality and volume Tarquin's site more than deserves an award. Serves as a good beginner's portal but is of interest to anyone with a love of caving

• South Wales Caving Club

  http://www.swcc.org.uk/

  With its prehistoric geology and expanse of subterranean mining tunnels, Wales is a superb location for the sport of caving. Naturally, for those wishing to explore underneath the surface of the country the South Wales Caving Club is a good place to start. The club's site is a great way to discover upcoming events in what may be the best caving location in the British Isles

• ShowCavesBlog

  http://blog.showcaves.com/

  Would you rather explore caves on a public-viewing basis? If so, the ShowCaveBlog is a longstanding effort to keep the community up-to-date with the latest cave tourism news.

• Reading University Caving Club

  http://www.rucavers.co.uk/

  The guys at the RUCC are fun-loving and if you're in the area will gladly invite yo into the fold. The online portal for the group is an entertaining and educational resource for budding cavers, with the FAQ especially worth checking out

• National Speleological Society

  http://www.caves.org/

  The National Speleogical Society is possibly the world's largest and most dedicated organisation in the world of caving. Their work is far-reaching, helping conserve and protect the environment and promote awareness amongst cavers - learn more about the Society, find a local group and donate to help the cause

• Cave-Exploring

  http://www.cave-exploring.com/

  The Cave Exploring online guide is a marvellous and concise intro into this exhilarating sport. If you can't find what you're looking for on here, Paul's site also points you towards the right places to help you advance your knowledge

• Cave-Exploration

  http://www.cave-exploration.com/aboutce.htm

  Cave-Exploration is the online home of a team of expert cavers basing their activities in the State of Yucatan, Mexico. Their photo and video caving reports are wonders in and of themselves in addition to the helpful advice offered to the less experienced