Best caves around Nesse-Apfelstädt are found within the broader Thuringia region, offering diverse underground experiences. This area is characterized by its varied geological formations, including natural karst caves and historical man-made tunnels. The landscape around Nesse-Apfelstädt provides opportunities to explore both natural subterranean features and sites with historical significance. Visitors can discover a range of underground environments, from natural rock formations to former mining and bunker complexes.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Popular around Nesse-Apfelstädt
The cave is really only suitable for dwarves.
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In any case, take enough provisions with you, the ascent is not without it. 😄
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apparently lovingly decorated with dwarves by local residents. Unfortunately, there is no explanation/note about this place, which is a listed building
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A few meters off the track. According to old records, a widely branched cave. But for more than 5-6 meters you need a decent lamp and clothes that can get dirty.
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Some time ago, while studying the regional maps, I became aware of a place called "Dwarf Cave" near Dosdorf. Curious about what it is all about, I visited this beautiful spot and was surprised that no geocache has found its place here, which will now be different. As the name suggests - it's a really small "cave" made by dwarf humans. What exactly it is about or why it was created is unfortunately beyond my knowledge, the Internet has no advice on this. If anyone would like to provide local insider knowledge about this place I'm happy to include it in the description. Although it should actually be self-evident, I would like to point out that the cache can only be reached on foot or by bicycle from the parking lot coordinates. There is no need to leave the paths, please treat nature and this place with respect. (Source: https://www.geocaching.com)
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I was asked today by a native of Dosdorf that this dwarf cave was built by a father for his children a long time ago, when he was still a child, so that they can enjoy being outside in nature. Furthermore, he told me that the way there is decorated with eggs etc at Easter and with tree decorations around Advent ... A fir tree even had a little jewelry on it ... I think that's a really good idea 👍
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Until April 1945, thousands of prisoners from the SIII Ohrdruf concentration camp drove around 25 tunnels into the shell limestone under inhumane conditions.
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A little hidden, but if you find it be sure to go inside.
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The region around Nesse-Apfelstädt offers a diverse range of underground experiences. You can find natural karst caves, historical man-made tunnel systems, and even decorated grottoes. These sites provide opportunities to explore geological formations and structures with historical significance.
Yes, the area features significant historical underground sites. One notable location is the Former tunnel entrance (Jonastal bunker complex), which was a construction site for an underground Nazi headquarters. Another is the GSSD Bunker Schaderode (734th FuTK Command Post), a former Russian bunker from GDR times.
The Dwarves' Cave is particularly family-friendly. It is known for being lovingly decorated by local residents, often with seasonal themes like Easter eggs or Advent decorations, making it a unique and charming experience for visitors of all ages.
In the broader Thuringia region, you can visit the Dripstone Cave Kittelsthal, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing beautiful geological formations. Another unique site is the Marienglashöhle Friedrichroda, a former gypsum mine featuring large, transparent gypsum crystals known as 'Marienglas'.
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Böhlersloch Cave near Arnstadt is a legendary karst cave consisting of three connected flushed caves. Its entrance tunnel is very shallow, often requiring crawling, and exploring further inside requires a good lamp and clothes that can get dirty.
Visitors describe the Dwarves' Cave as a lovingly decorated spot, built by a father for his children to enjoy nature. It's often adorned with seasonal decorations, making it a delightful and unique experience, especially for families.
Absolutely. The region around Nesse-Apfelstädt offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various trails, from easy to moderate, that can be combined with a visit to the caves. Explore routes like the 'Tree With Circular Bench – Small Weir loop' or the 'Gleichen Castle – Mühlberg Aqueduct loop' by checking out the Hiking around Nesse-Apfelstädt guide.
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. Whether you prefer mountain biking or road cycling, you can find trails that pass near some of the cave locations. For MTB, consider routes like the 'Mühlburg – View of Veste Wachsenburg loop'. For road cycling, the 'Molsdorf Castle – Cycle path between Gera and the railway loop' is an option. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Nesse-Apfelstädt and Road Cycling Routes around Nesse-Apfelstädt guides.
The Marienglashöhle Friedrichroda is unique because it's a former gypsum mine that has been converted into a show cave. Its main attraction is the presence of large, transparent gypsum crystals, historically known as 'Marienglas' (Mary's Glass), offering a sparkling and educational experience about the region's mining history.
The Böhlersloch Cave is a karst cave with a very shallow entrance, meaning you might need to crawl to enter. For deeper exploration, it's essential to bring a reliable lamp and wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, as it can be a challenging and rugged experience.
The Böhlersloch Cave is steeped in local legends. According to historical records, it is mentioned in the book 'Legends, Fables and Romantic Stories from the Central Thuringian Forest and its Foreland', with tales of 'little elves' helping a poor widow, adding a mythical dimension to its natural beauty.


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