Top 5 Caves around Leissigen
Best caves around Leissigen are found in a region characterized by its location on Lake Thun and its proximity to significant natural cave systems. Leissigen serves as a starting point for exploring geological formations such as the St. Beatus Caves and the Schafloch. These sites offer insights into subterranean landscapes and historical natural features. The area provides opportunities for both accessible tourist experiences and more rugged hiking adventures.
Best caves around Leissigen
- The most popular caves is St. Beatus Caves, a cave system that features approximately 1 kilometer of illuminated paths through extensive formations. This site is known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, underground waterways, and its connection to the legend of Saint Beatus.
- Another must-see spot is Schafloch — West Entrance, a cave and natural monument. Visitors can expect to explore a natural rock tunnel, historically expanded for logistical purposes, which offers panoramic views of Lake Thun and the Mittelland from its western portal.
- Visitors also love Schafloch East Entrance, a cave that was originally a natural ice grotto. This approximately 600-meter passage under the Sigriswiler Rothorn provides a unique hiking experience, with its eastern exit offering views of the Justistal and the Bernese Alps.
- Leissigen is known for natural cave systems and historical natural tunnels. The variety of caves to see and explore ranges from well-developed tourist attractions to more adventurous, unlit passages.
- The caves around Leissigen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 600 photos shared by users.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
St. Beatus Caves
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According to legend, a fire-breathing dragon lived here in the Middle Ages. Saint Beatus approached him with the cross and called on the Holy Trinity, whereupon the dragon threw itself with a roar into Lake Thun and drowned. Saint Beatus is said to have lived here in the cave until his death. Today, the grave of Saint Beatus and a replica of his cell can be viewed at the cave entrance. Part of the Way of St. James runs below the caves.
Further information is available at beatushoehlen.swiss/de.
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Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves
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Schafloch East Entrance
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Schafloch — West Entrance
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St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot
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Tips from the Community
The hiking trail to the Sigriswiler Rothorn comes close to the tunnel entrance. However, the trail turns left 50 meters before that.
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Parking is subject to a fee... you can pay conveniently with Twint, for example... and it is right at the entrance
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The eastern entrance to the Schafloch is located directly on the ridge path between the Sigriswiler Rothorn and the Fluhhorn. Unlike the more hidden western entrance, the access here is much easier to spot and easily accessible 🪨👣. ⚠️. The tunnel itself is around 20 meters long, slightly curved, and cannot be traversed without light – a headlamp is recommended 🔦! Special feature: At the eastern exit, a spectacular view of the Justistal and the Bernese Alps awaits you ⛰️👀 – ideal for a short break or a panoramic photo 📸.
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The western entrance to the Schafloch is located slightly below the ridge and is easy to miss 👀 – pay attention to the trail markings! The entrance is via a short, steep path that can be slippery when wet ⚠️🥾. From here, the natural rock tunnel leads about 20m through the mountain – a fascinating experience 🪨⛰️. View: Right at the western portal, there is a magnificent view of Lake Thun and the Mittelland 🌄🌊 – be sure to pause for a moment and enjoy! Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots 🥾, possibly poles 🦯. A headlamp 🔦 is useful, as it is quite dark inside the tunnel. A cell phone 📱light will not suffice 😉. Safety: Not suitable in heavy rain or snow – the tunnel floor can become slippery. Recommended only for sure-footed hikers with a head for heights ⚠️. Special feature: The tunnel was formed by geological processes and is a rare natural phenomenon in Switzerland. It is one of the highlights of the Sigriswil ridge hike 🏞️.
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A headlamp must be taken with you in any case.
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Great post! The description of the eastern entrance to Schafloch really drew me in. After reading, I might relax with a quick game of [url=https://geometry-dash.me/]geometry dash[/url]. Thanks for sharing!
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The East Entrance of Schafloch is notable for being one of the primary access points to this natural cave formation. https://geoguessrfree.org
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Very suggestive point on the Thunersee tour route. It is the access to the caves from which a spring flows. The visit to the caves is subject to a fee. However, the uphill path to reach the entrance to the caves is freely accessible. Recommended for the view of the lake from above, the visit to the waterfalls formed by the spring (explanatory panels that tell the state of the fresh water reserves present in Switzerland). Once at the top, the structure from which you access the caves is also a restaurant/bar with a beautiful view of the lake. You can do a circular tour by going up on one side crossing the structure and going down on the opposite side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of caves to explore around Leissigen?
The region offers a mix of well-developed tourist attractions and more adventurous, unlit passages. You can explore extensive illuminated cave systems like the St. Beatus Caves, or natural rock tunnels like the Schafloch, which requires hiking and a headlamp.
Are there family-friendly cave experiences near Leissigen?
Yes, the St. Beatus Caves are particularly family-friendly. They feature well-maintained, illuminated paths, a children's playground with a dragon slide, and a museum, making them suitable for visitors of all ages.
What historical or legendary significance do the caves around Leissigen hold?
The St. Beatus Caves are steeped in the legend of Saint Beatus, an Irish monk who is said to have driven a dragon from the caves in the 6th century. A replica of his cell and his grave can be found near the entrance. The Schafloch, originally a natural ice grotto, was historically expanded and used for logistical purposes, including during World War II.
What kind of natural formations can I expect to see in the caves?
The St. Beatus Caves are renowned for their impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, grand halls, chasms, and subterranean waterways with bubbling streams and waterfalls. The Schafloch is a unique natural rock tunnel, a rare geological phenomenon in Switzerland.
What are the parking options for visiting the caves?
For the St. Beatus Caves, there is a dedicated parking lot, the St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot, which is also wheelchair accessible. Access to the Schafloch typically involves hiking, so parking would be at trailheads leading to its entrances.
How accessible are the caves for visitors with mobility challenges?
The St. Beatus Caves are designed for easy access, featuring modern electric lighting and secure, well-maintained pathways for approximately one kilometer of exploration. The dedicated parking lot is also wheelchair accessible. The Schafloch, however, is part of a more rugged hiking adventure and is not accessible for those with mobility challenges.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves around Leissigen?
The St. Beatus Caves are a popular summer destination, but also offer unique experiences like candlelight cave raclette during winter months, suggesting year-round appeal. For the Schafloch, which is part of a hiking route, the best time to visit would be during the hiking season, typically spring through autumn, to avoid challenging winter conditions on the trails.
Are there hiking opportunities near the caves?
Yes, exploring the Schafloch is typically part of a hiking adventure, offering panoramic views of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps. For more extensive hiking, you can find various routes in the area, including challenging mountain hikes. Discover more options on the Mountain Hikes around Leissigen guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the caves?
Beyond cave exploration and hiking, the Leissigen area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling and mountain biking. For detailed routes and guides, explore the Cycling around Leissigen guide and the MTB Trails around Leissigen guide.
Are there places to eat or drink near the caves?
Yes, the St. Beatus Caves feature a Panorama Restaurant that offers breathtaking views of Lake Thun, providing a picturesque setting for meals. There are also other cafes and restaurants in the broader Leissigen area.
What should I bring if I plan to visit the Schafloch?
If you plan to explore the Schafloch, you should wear sturdy hiking boots as it's part of a rugged trail. It is also essential to bring a headlamp, as the tunnel sections are dark and unlit.
Can I reach the caves using public transport?
Public transport options are available to reach the vicinity of the St. Beatus Caves, which are located above Lake Thun. Access to the Schafloch typically involves a hike from more remote starting points, so public transport access might require additional planning.
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