Caves around Pfaffroda are primarily historical mining tunnels rather than natural formations, reflecting the region's rich mining heritage in the Erzgebirgskreis. The geological composition of the area, largely slate, supported extensive mining operations. These underground sites offer insights into past industrial activities and local folklore. Exploring these locations provides a unique perspective on the area's history and natural features.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves around Pfaffroda.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
We now walk through the valley, with the rocks rising up beside us. At the side of the path, we find the entrance to the Tiefen Blühend Glück tunnel. https://youtu.be/LYmwgx7Z0Lk
0
0
You just have to have been here ;-)
0
0
definitely worth a trip
0
3
In 1776, an old tunnel in the so-called Saugarten was opened under the name Williger Bergmann. Work continued there with interruptions until 1812. The tunnel was recently uncovered again and is now part of the Marienberg mining trail. In summer, it is always nice and shady here and the Lauterbach river flowing past keeps it nice and cool. So you can take a break here.
0
0
The glass tunnel in the Hüttengrund is a testament to the early years of Marienberg mining and was built in 1523 as a hereditary tunnel to drain the Marienberg central district. At that time it was the deepest tunnel south of Marienberg with a length of 3.5 km. The name was probably given by the local Brille family, who were closely linked to the Marienberg mining industry through Dominicus Brille. The Brillestollen was a hereditary tunnel and was entitled to the “Ninth of the Tunnel”, a levy from all mines, which, as the deepest tunnel, saved the costs of raising water. Its mine water was used to operate the lower Marienberg smelter. When mining came to a complete standstill in Marienberg at the beginning of the 20th century, the mouth of the Glass Tunnel was filled with rubble stones in 1907 to 1908 as part of the preservation and security work. The first excavation work began in 1994 through the initiative of the Marienberg mining association. Since then, many interested visitors have been welcomed to the Brillestolln by members of the Bergknappschaft Marienberg e.V. Unfortunately, after renovation work by the mountain safety team, the Brillestollen is no longer accessible to the public. Today it only serves internal club purposes. Source: https://knappenverein.de/portfolio-item/glaeser-stolln/
14
0
The tunnel was excavated between 1855 and 1886. However, enough was never really found here and so it only leads a little more than five hundred meters into the mountain. However, the beautifully brick mouth hole that can be seen today was once destroyed when the keystone was stolen. After the fall of the Wall, the Pobershau Mountain Brotherhood renovated it. The tunnel now also serves as a roost for bats. Source: https://www.ins-erzgebirge.de/Mundloch-des-Tiefen-Bl%C3%BChend-Gl%C3%BCck-Stollns
16
0
In 1776, an old tunnel in the so-called Sauarten was recorded under the name Williger Bergmann. At that time, its length was 70 m. In the years that followed, it was further excavated up to 1785 to a total length of 250 m. Originally should the Emperor Heinrich Stehende can be reached, however, this company was subsequently abandoned. In 1808 the willing miner Stolln was awarded again. During this time, 40 m were driven (to a total length of 290 m). It has been handed down that after a distance of 52 m from the mouth of the mouth, an overcut began and in the process it broke through into an old tunnel located above. Mining work ended in 1812. The tunnel was recently uncovered by mining enthusiasts and with the support of the Schneeberg mountain rescue service. The tunnel mouth was also provided with a wall.
4
0
The "caves" around Pfaffroda are primarily historical mining tunnels and adits, rather than natural dripstone formations. The region's geology, largely slate, supported extensive mining operations, making these sites testaments to the area's rich industrial past. They offer a unique glimpse into historical mining activities and local folklore.
You can explore several significant historical mining sites. The Tiefer Blühend Glück Stolln Mine Entrance, excavated between 1855 and 1886, features a beautifully bricked mouth hole and now serves as a roost for bats. Another interesting spot is the Williger Bergmann Stolln, an old tunnel up to 290 meters long that was uncovered by mining enthusiasts and includes a rest area.
While the area is known for mining tunnels, the Cave Entrance on Floßgrabenweg, mentioned in regional research, is noted for its "internal grain," showcasing the mineral composition of the rock within an old mine. This offers a unique geological perspective within the context of the region's mining history.
The most popular site is the Weißer Ofen Quarry, an imposing man-made historical site with a covered rest area. Other highly appreciated locations include the Tiefer Blühend Glück Stolln Mine Entrance and the Williger Bergmann Stolln, both offering insights into the region's mining past.
Yes, the Stülpner Cave, a natural monument, is famously linked to the Erzgebirge folk hero Karl Stülpner. He was a poacher and game hunter who reportedly used this cave as a hiding place from authorities. Its origins are also tied to historical tin ore mining activities, blending folklore with historical significance.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails around Pfaffroda, with options like the 'Saidenbach Reservoir – View of the Saidenbach Forebay loop from Dörnthal'. There are also Running Trails, such as the 'Bruchberg – Saigerhütte Museum loop from Olbernhau', and Cycling routes like the 'Wilddiebs Bridge – Nonnenfelsen Climbing Crag loop from Hallbach'.
Yes, the Gläserstolln, a historical drainage tunnel, is no longer accessible to the public and serves internal club purposes after renovation work. Additionally, to visit the Mikloušská Adit, which once housed a mine museum, you must make an appointment beforehand.
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the unique insights into the region's mining heritage. Many enjoy the sense of discovery, especially at sites like the Williger Bergmann Stolln, which was uncovered by enthusiasts. The peaceful, idyllic settings and the opportunity to learn about past industrial activities are also highly valued.
While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't listed for all sites, many of the historical mining tunnels offer an educational experience suitable for families interested in history and geology. Sites with rest areas, like the Weißer Ofen Quarry and Williger Bergmann Stolln, can make for more comfortable visits with children.
The historical mining tunnels and quarries can generally be visited year-round. However, for combining visits with outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, spring through autumn (April to October) offers the most pleasant weather conditions. Some sites, like the Tiefer Blühend Glück Stolln Mine Entrance, serve as bat roosts, which might influence accessibility or viewing opportunities during certain seasons.
The Weißer Ofen Quarry is categorized as a viewpoint and is situated in the forest, offering natural surroundings. While the primary focus is historical mining, the trails leading to these sites often pass through scenic natural landscapes of the Erzgebirge region.
Even in summer, temperatures inside mining tunnels can be cool and consistent. It's advisable to wear layers of clothing, including a light jacket or sweater. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are also recommended, as paths can be uneven or damp.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Pfaffroda: