Caves around Geroldsgrün, located in Upper Franconia, Germany, offer an exploration of the region's geological features and historical mining past. The area, part of the Frankenwald, features subterranean sites that are primarily former ore mines and local legendary spots. These sites provide insight into the region's industrial heritage and local folklore. Visitors can explore various underground structures, ranging from historical tunnels to natural rock formations.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
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Former mine entrance with cute gnome figures. Information panel attached.
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The Zwergenloch is a tunnel entrance in the mining area surrounding the historic mine in the Naila region. It is located near the underground access area of the "Unterer Wilder Mann" mine. Mining in this area was predominantly active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tunnel entrances like the Zwergenloch served for mining or access to the ore-bearing rock layers.
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What a great idea with the cash register! The drinks are wonderfully chilled. I was happy to take advantage of the offer. You can leave a message on the slate stones!🤩
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The Rebecca Tunnel is a deep tunnel in the Höllental valley. It is one of the region's less significant former ore mines, as only a small amount of copper and iron ore was found here.
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The first inhabitants of the Güldenstein estate were probably forestry assistants or woodcutters. Bird trapping was also a lucrative sideline. The Güldenstein bird herd was located above the hillside on a flat area. Only the owners of the estate had the right to trap all types of finches, larks, tits, blackbirds, and thrushes. Selling them was not a problem, as the songbirds were considered a delicacy in the city. Bird trapping was not banned until the end of the 19th century. However, the most important means of survival in this remote area was always agriculture. In 1930, Güldenstein was abandoned by its last inhabitants.
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The cave is a bit hidden so keep your eyes open when hiking 🥾 😀
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Amazingly, it is not locked and can be entered - provided you have a lamp with you. After just a few steps it is pitch black and you can already hear the water at the end.
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One of the most beautiful places I discovered on my tour.
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The region around Geroldsgrün offers a mix of historical mining tunnels, rock cellars, and local legendary spots. These are primarily former ore mines rather than extensive natural show caves, providing insight into the area's industrial heritage and folklore.
Yes, you can explore historical mining tunnels. The Blauer Löw Mine Entrance is an 18th-century ore mine tunnel where you can walk approximately 25 meters inside. Remember to bring a flashlight or mobile phone light. Another historical site is the Rebecca Tunnel, a former ore mine in the Höllental valley, though its entrance is closed.
The Lohnendagsthal Drinks Cave offers a unique refreshment stop. It provides chilled drinks with a checkout of trust, making it a convenient spot to rehydrate during your outdoor activities.
Yes, the Dwarves' Cave in Naila is a local legendary spot. According to folklore, hundreds of dwarves once lived there. Today, you'll find a few plastic dwarves at its entrance, and it offers a pleasant resting area between a small rock wall.
For sites like the Blauer Löw Mine Entrance, a flashlight or mobile phone light is recommended as it can be dark inside. Generally, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain are advisable.
Many of the sites are more historical or legendary spots rather than extensive show caves. The Dwarves' Cave, with its local legend and resting area, could be an interesting and easy stop for families. The Rebecca Tunnel is also categorized as family-friendly, though its entrance is closed.
The region around Geroldsgrün is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, Running Trails, and Road Cycling Routes. For example, you could explore the Höllental Forest Trail or the Selbitztal Cycle Path.
Yes, Güldenstein — Former settlement and rock cellar is a historical site that was abandoned in 1930. It features a preserved rock cellar and offers a nice rest area, providing a glimpse into the region's past.
Specific parking information for each individual cave site is not always readily available. However, as many of these sites are integrated into hiking routes, you can often find parking at trailheads or nearby villages. It's advisable to check local maps or visitor information for specific locations.
The caves and former mine entrances are generally accessible year-round. However, for comfortable exploration and to combine your visit with hiking or cycling, the warmer months from spring to autumn are ideal. During winter, some paths might be icy, and the experience inside the unlit tunnels could be colder.
Given that most sites are historical mining tunnels or local curiosities rather than developed show caves, formal guided tours are not commonly available. Exploration is typically self-guided, especially for sites like the Blauer Löw Mine Entrance.
Most of the sites, such as the Blauer Löw Mine Entrance (where you can walk about 25 meters in), are relatively small and can be explored in a short amount of time, typically 15-30 minutes per site. The overall duration of your visit will depend on how many sites you combine with hiking or other activities.


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