Top 5 Caves around Wahlkreis Wil

Wahlkreis Wil is known for its unique cave-like formations, including grottoes, gorges with semi-caves, and arch-shaped half-caves. These features offer a variety of natural and historical sites to explore, rather than deep, extensive cave systems.

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Marian Grotto at Schloss Spiegelberg is a contemplative and accessible site. Additionally, the Columban's Cave is a smaller, cozy half-cave often enjoyed by children. The Waterfall (with picnic area) also offers family-friendly facilities near a half-cave.

The Hohlen Stein Gorge is a wild and romantic ravine featuring a large semi-cave and a waterfall. Another impressive spot is the Thur Waterfall at Alte Mühle, Felsegg, which has cave-like features along the Thur river and offers scenic paths.

No, the Kolumbanshöhle (also known as Salpeterhöhle), located near Gossau, has been closed to the public since 1998 due to the risk of collapse. An eastern access route was further closed in 2024 due to rockfall danger, making it inaccessible and unsafe for visitors.

The Marian Grotto at Schloss Spiegelberg is a significant historical and religious site. It's a replica of the Lourdes grotto, inaugurated in 1935, offering a contemplative place for devotion.

While Wahlkreis Wil itself focuses on cave-like features, the wider St. Gallen region and neighboring cantons offer notable caves. The **Crystal Cave Kobelwald** near Oberriet is a walk-in, water-bearing cave with impressive crystal deposits. The **Wildkirchli Caves** in Appenzell Innerrhoden are archaeologically significant, containing traces of Neanderthal habitation.

Many of these sites are integrated into scenic routes. You can find various outdoor activities nearby, including waterfall hikes, easy hikes, and gravel biking tours around Wahlkreis Wil. These routes often pass by or near the gorges, waterfalls, and grottoes.

Visitors appreciate the wild and romantic atmosphere of places like the Hohlen Stein Gorge, with its impressive rock formations and well-developed paths. The scenic beauty along the Thur river, especially near the Thur Waterfall at Alte Mühle, Felsegg, is also highly praised. Many find the grottoes and half-caves to be contemplative and unique natural spots.

Yes, the Hohlen Stein Gorge features a barbecue area, offering a perfect spot for a break amidst the natural beauty. There's also a Waterfall (with picnic area) that provides a nicely developed picnic spot just above a pond and half-cave.

The Thur Waterfall at Alte Mühle, Felsegg offers scenic paths. When water levels are low, you can access the waterfall directly over the rocks. However, it's crucial to be aware of the power of the Thur river; the areas by the waterfall can be extremely dangerous due to strong eddies. Exercise caution and do not underestimate the water's force.

While many paths are well-developed, some areas, like the Hohlen Stein Gorge, feature steep steps. The highlight 'to the Salpeter Cave' is marked as challenging, though as noted, the actual Salpeterhöhle (Kolumbanshöhle) is closed. Always check route descriptions for difficulty levels if you plan to hike in these areas.