Top 20 Caves in St. Gallen
Best caves in St. Gallen are found within a diverse landscape featuring river valleys, alpine foothills, and the Rhine Valley. This Swiss canton offers a range of natural formations, from deep gorges carved by rivers to historical cave sites. The region's geology contributes to unique subterranean experiences, including crystal formations and waterfall-fed grottoes. St. Gallen provides opportunities for exploring natural monuments and historical sites with cave elements.
Best caves in St. Gallen
- The most popular caves is Brudertobel Cave with…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Thur Waterfalls
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Ofenloch Gorge
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Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall
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Wildenmannli’s Cave
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Ofenloch and Waterfalls in the Neckar Gorge
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Pilgrimage Church of St. Idaburg
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Kristallhöhle Kobelwald
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Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruin
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Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle
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Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans
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Tips from the Community
interesting and fresh
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Great cave, definitely worth a visit.
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Guided tours are only available on certain dates or with pre-registered groups (see website). However, the restaurant and museum are always open; the restaurant in the mine is beautifully designed, with an outdoor terrace in front of the entrance.
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On the eastern side of the Seluner-Ruck there is a cave, the Wildmannlisloch. Its gate is so large that one can drive in with a horse and cart. It leads an hour and a half deep into the mountain, and the passages inside are so wide that several men can walk upright side by side. At the front the wild men have carved out tables and benches for themselves; a quarter of an hour further in is a small lake, surrounded by boulders; the dwarves have rolled around these to form cool resting places; even further back are the dwellings. The dwarves lived on roots and milk. They helped the neighboring herdsmen to "shear" the stables, feed the cattle, and make hay on the mountain. Once they fetched the midwife from Starkenbach, who had to assist a wild woman. As a reward she received an entire apron full of lumps of earth. On the long way out of the cave, however, she paid no attention to the worthless gift; When she came out into the daylight and looked at the last piece, it was pure gold. Rochholz, Swiss legends.
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Wiechenstein Castle Ruins, a former four-story castle in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley.
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Great gorge at Ofenloch, safety is mandatory
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is a very impressive place - used to be a pub (hobby)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the caves in St. Gallen unique?
St. Gallen's caves offer a diverse experience, from impressive geological formations to historical sites. The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald stands out for its substantial deposits of calcite crystals, making it unique in Switzerland. Other sites feature deep gorges, waterfalls, and archaeological significance.
Which caves in St. Gallen are developed for tourism and easy to visit?
The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald is well-developed for tourism. The first 128 meters are equipped with electric lighting and well-maintained paths, making it easily accessible for visitors. Guided tours are also available.
Are there any caves with historical significance in St. Gallen?
Yes, several sites have historical importance. The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald was discovered in 1682 and is one of Switzerland's earliest known mineral sites. The Wildenmannli’s Cave and Drachenloch are known for significant Paleolithic archaeological finds, though they are not primarily accessible tourist caves. The St. Iddaburg Pilgrimage Church and Lourdes Grotto also features a grotto with historical and religious context.
What can I expect when visiting <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/719158" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall</a>?
Visitors describe Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall as an imposing and impressive site, definitely worth seeing and experiencing. It features a waterfall within the cave and a popular fireplace, making it a unique spot for a break.
Are the caves in St. Gallen suitable for families?
Yes, some caves are family-friendly. The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald is often a destination for school trips and family outings due to its accessibility and unique crystal formations. The Thur Waterfalls, which include cave elements, are also accessible on a flat path and offer barbecue areas.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty for exploring caves in St. Gallen?
The terrain varies. For developed caves like Kristallhöhle Kobelwald, paths are well-maintained but can be damp and uneven, requiring good footwear. Other sites like Ofenloch Gorge, which features caves, require surefootedness and can be challenging due to spectacular but exposed paths.
What should I wear when visiting caves in St. Gallen?
Due to the damp and often uneven surfaces inside caves, good, sturdy footwear with grip is highly recommended. Even in summer, cave interiors can be cool, so bringing an extra layer of clothing is advisable.
What are the best times of year to visit caves in St. Gallen?
The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald has specific seasonal opening hours, typically from spring to autumn. It's best to check their official website for current schedules. For outdoor cave-related sites like gorges and waterfalls, late spring to early autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather conditions for exploration.
Are there parking facilities or public transport options for reaching the caves?
For the Kristallhöhle Kobelwald, information on parking is usually available on their site. Many natural attractions in St. Gallen, including those with cave elements, are accessible by public transport, often with bus stops nearby, such as the Thur Waterfalls which are a few minutes from a post bus stop.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves in St. Gallen?
St. Gallen offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, MTB trails, and gravel biking routes throughout the region. Many cave highlights are part of hiking trails, allowing you to combine cave exploration with scenic walks through gorges and forests.
Are there places to eat or other amenities near the caves?
Yes, some cave-related sites offer amenities. The St. Iddaburg Pilgrimage Church and Lourdes Grotto has a restaurant nearby. The Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans, which includes cave elements, also features a restaurant. For other locations, you may find options in nearby towns or villages.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the caves in St. Gallen?
Visitors frequently praise the mystical and impressive atmosphere of the caves and gorges. The unique crystal formations of Kristallhöhle Kobelwald are a major draw, as are the spectacular paths and wild beauty of places like Ofenloch Gorge. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance also adds to the appeal.
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