Top 15 Caves around Marktschellenberg
Best caves around Marktschellenberg offers a diverse range of subterranean experiences in the Berchtesgaden Alps region. This area, situated on the border between Germany and Austria, is characterized by its rugged mountain landscapes and unique geological formations. Visitors can explore natural ice caves, historical salt mines, and ancient catacombs carved into rock. The region's rich history and natural beauty provide a compelling backdrop for cave exploration.
Best caves around Marktschellenberg
- The most popular caves is Schellenberger Ice Cave, a natural monument that is the largest show ice cave in Germany. Guided tours explore its spectacular interior, with paths on wooden stairs and walkways, revealing ice that is over 2000 years old.
- Another must-see spot is Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, a historical site offering guided tours into the mountain. Visitors can ride a mine train, walk through tunnels, and slide down chutes, learning about salt mining history.
- Visitors also love Mittagsscharte, a mountain pass where a cave called "Steinerner Kaser" is located. This cave is noted for a light phenomenon observable on specific dates and is considered an entrance to the interior of the mountain.
- Marktschellenberg is known for natural ice caves, historical salt mines, and catacombs. The variety of caves to see and explore ranges from challenging natural formations to family-friendly guided tours.
- The caves around Marktschellenberg are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 960 upvotes and more than 380 photos shared by users.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Low Tunnel in Almbach Gorge
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Berchtesgaden Salt Mine
Highlight • Historical Site
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Gollinger Waterfall and Historic Watermill
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Mittagsscharte
Highlight • Mountain Pass
location
It is located between the Salzburg Hochthron (1 853 m above sea level) in the north and the Raucheck (1 891 m above sea level) in the south at an altitude of 1 671 m above sea level. A. directly on the border between Austria and Germany.
particularity
The Alpine shaman Rainer Limpöck describes in his books Myth Untersberg and High and Holy - encounters of people and spirits on Untersberg some phenomena that are scientifically so unexplained. This is how Limpöck thinks this is the ... place where "Middle-earth" begins, where the giant devil with his divine powers has shaped, where healing happens, where the sun shines into the underworld, where heaven and earth connect. ,
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St. Peter's Cemetery (Petersfriedhof)
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Tips from the Community
Your taxi into the underground... sit on it... head straight... arms not stretched out... and the journey into the interior of the mountain begins
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Good footwear Take enough to drink with you Sure-footedness required
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Beautiful gorge, very good paths with good security. However, good shoes, enough to drink in high heat. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are required. Good condition, as it is sometimes very steep up and down.
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Wonderful view of the Salzach Valley and Golling.
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Promising ascent via well-secured paths. The water cools you down on hot days.
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This trail is a good choice for hot summer days. Less recommended when it rains.
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The Almbachklamm is particularly long. There are many lattice floor steel bridges over the creek with magnificent views. There are also plenty of opportunities to put your feet in the water and relax away from it all and enjoy the spectacle of nature. A special plus is the possibility to extend the hike through the gorge with a circular hike over the Hammerstielwand.
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Tall people have to bend down here; fortunately the tunnel is not particularly long and after a few meters you can walk upright again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves can I explore around Marktschellenberg?
The Marktschellenberg area offers a diverse range of subterranean experiences, including natural ice caves like the Schellenberger Ice Cave, historical salt mines such as the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, and ancient catacombs found at St. Peter's Cemetery.
Are there family-friendly cave tours available near Marktschellenberg?
Yes, the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine is particularly family-friendly. It offers guided tours where visitors can ride a mine train, walk through tunnels, and slide down chutes, making it an engaging experience for both children and adults.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves around Marktschellenberg?
The Schellenberger Ice Cave is typically open from the end of May to October. For other caves like the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, it's advisable to check their specific operating hours, as they may be open year-round or have seasonal variations.
How long does a tour of the Schellenberger Ice Cave take?
A guided tour of the Schellenberger Ice Cave lasts approximately 45 minutes. Tours depart hourly on the hour.
What should I wear when visiting the Schellenberger Ice Cave?
Even in summer, the Schellenberger Ice Cave maintains cold temperatures. It is recommended to wear warm clothing and sturdy, non-slip footwear suitable for walking on wooden stairs and walkways, which can be damp.
Are there any challenging cave exploration opportunities in the area?
Yes, the Schellenberger Ice Cave is rated as intermediate to challenging due to its terrain and the need for a guided tour. The Mittagsscharte, which features the "Steinerner Kaser" cave, is also considered a challenging area, often requiring more experienced hikers.
Can I find any unique natural phenomena in the caves near Marktschellenberg?
The cave known as "Steinerner Kaser" at Mittagsscharte is noted for a light phenomenon observable on specific dates: August 15th and June 21st, around 2 PM. It is also considered an entrance to the interior of the mountain.
What outdoor activities can I do near the caves around Marktschellenberg?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, MTB trails, and gravel biking routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the rugged mountain landscapes.
Is parking available for the Schellenberger Ice Cave?
While the guide does not specify a dedicated parking lot directly at the cave entrance, visitors typically park in Marktschellenberg or nearby designated areas and then hike to the cave. For the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, a well-developed parking lot is available.
Are there guided tours for all caves, or can I explore some independently?
The Schellenberger Ice Cave and Berchtesgaden Salt Mine both require guided tours for exploration. For other natural formations like the cave at Mittagsscharte, access might be more independent but often involves challenging mountain terrain.
What historical sites are related to caves in the Marktschellenberg area?
Beyond the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, which is a significant historical site, St. Peter's Cemetery in Salzburg features ancient catacombs carved into the mountain. These are of late antique origin and contain chapels, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Are there any cafes or refreshments near the Schellenberger Ice Cave?
The guide mentions a small wooden hut near the meeting point for the Schellenberger Ice Cave tours. While not explicitly stated as a cafe, it's a common spot for visitors to gather, and refreshments might be available seasonally. It's best to carry your own provisions or check locally.
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