Top 15 Caves in the Ammergauer Alps
Best caves in the Ammergauer Alps are primarily natural grottoes and man-made historical sites. The region, known for its landscapes and hiking trails, features a limited number of traditionally explorable natural caves. The Bärenhöhle Oberammergau is a notable example of a freely accessible grotto within the immediate vicinity. Other natural features, such as the Kuhflucht Waterfalls, are impressive but not considered conventional explorable cave systems.
Best caves in the Ammergauer Alps
- The most popular caves is Venus Grotto (Venusgrotte),…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Schleierfälle
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bear Cave near Oberammergau
Highlight • Cave
Opposite is a small parking lot (free of charge)
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
Venus Grotto (Venusgrotte)
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Pressure Tunnel of the Hydroelectric Power Plant
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Air-raid shelter tunnel in the rock
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Schatzloch Cave
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Marian Grotto on the Way to Kenzenhütte
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Forgotten Mining Site
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cave With Crosses
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Small Marian Grotto
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves in the Ammergauer Alps.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ammergauer Alps
Glide and enjoy – cross-country skiing in the Tyrolean Zugspitz Arena
Triathlon 360 – my journey around the world
Triathlon around Germany
Maximilian Trail in Germany — Lake Constance to Königssee
The Romantic Road – To the Pearls of Southern Germany
Ammergau Alps meditation path in Bavaria – Breathe in, breathe out
The Ammer-Amper Cycle Path – Experience nature in the foothills of the Alps
The Lechweg — eight days on Austria's wildest river
Lake Constance to Königssee cycle path
Lechloops – wonderful hiking along the wild Lech
Other adventures in the Ammergauer Alps
Tips from the Community
what an elaborate design, pompous but also beautiful
1
0
Super beautiful 🥰 you find yourself completely transported into a fairytale world - simply fantastic
4
0
Unfortunately, the Bear Cave can only be viewed from a distance. Due to the unstable rock face, the cave is not accessible.
1
0
The surcharge for the 15-minute guided tour is definitely worth it. Unfortunately, filming is not permitted. A homage to Richard Wagner. What was created here is truly unique. After a long restoration phase, the grotto is open again. Visit on July 29, 2025.
1
0
Beautiful memorial on the way to the Kenzenhütte.
0
0
The Venus Grotto is an artificial stalactite cave built into the mountain starting in 1875. The stage design for the "Venus Grotto" is from Act I of Richard Wagner's opera "Tannhäuser" and was created precisely according to his stage directions. The enormous painting depicts the Venusberg scenery. Between 1878 and 1881, the grotto received its state-of-the-art electric lighting. With the help of interchangeable colored glass panels, the grotto could be bathed in various colors. With its then highly innovative illusion technique, the Linderhof Grotto is one of the most fascinating examples of the 19th-century quest for the most perfect Gesamtkunstwerk (total work of art). The Venus Grotto reopened on April 11, 2025, after 10 years of restoration and an investment of approximately 60 million euros. Be sure to take the guided tour and experience the grotto live.
5
0
Former bunker - lighting is activated automatically.
4
0
A medium-sized goblin scrambled out of this tunnel and devoured my friend. Just kidding. It's an interesting little tunnel though, that's for sure.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves can I explore in the Ammergauer Alps?
The Ammergauer Alps offer a mix of natural grottoes, historical man-made tunnels, and artificial grottoes. While traditionally explorable natural caves are limited, you can find unique sites like the freely accessible Bear Cave near Oberammergau, historical bunkers, and artificial grottoes designed for specific experiences.
Are there any family-friendly caves in the region?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Venus Grotto (Venusgrotte) offers a fairytale-like experience with a guided tour. The Schatzloch Cave is a small natural cave where children can enjoy making up stories, and it provides a great view of Unterammergau.
What historical sites related to caves can I visit?
You can explore the Venus Grotto (Venusgrotte), an artificial grotto that is a homage to Richard Wagner. Another historical site is the Air-raid shelter tunnel in the rock, a former bunker where lighting is activated automatically as you walk through.
What natural features are near the caves in the Ammergauer Alps?
Beyond the caves themselves, the region is known for its stunning natural beauty. You can find impressive waterfalls like the Schleierfälle, which has a small grotto directly under the overhanging waterfall. The Schatzloch Cave offers views of the surrounding mountains, and the Bear Cave near Oberammergau provides a beautiful view of the Kofel mountain peak.
Is the Bärenhöhle Oberammergau easily accessible?
The Bärenhöhle (Bear Cave) near Oberammergau is a freely accessible grotto. It's situated directly on the B23 motorway on the southern outskirts of Oberammergau. There is a small, free parking lot opposite the cave. While the hiking trail leading to it was affected by a landslide, visitors can still access it, though it's at their own risk. Taking a headlamp is recommended for exploring its darker corners.
What outdoor activities can I do near these caves?
The Ammergauer Alps offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including waterfall hikes, or explore the region by cycling. For more challenging adventures, there are also mountain hikes available in the area.
What should I wear when visiting caves in the Ammergauer Alps?
For natural grottoes like the Bear Cave near Oberammergau, comfortable hiking shoes are advisable, and a headlamp can be useful for darker sections. For sites like the Venus Grotto, which is an artificial grotto, regular comfortable clothing is sufficient as it's a more controlled environment.
Are there any caves with religious significance?
Yes, the Bear Cave near Oberammergau houses two Christian works of art: a copy of an oil painting depicting the founding of Ettal Monastery and a statue of Jesus. Additionally, there is a Marian Grotto on the Way to Kenzenhütte, which is a religious building within a cave setting.
Can I explore any forgotten or hidden sites?
The region features a Forgotten Mining Site, which offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. While not a traditional cave, it's a historical site that might appeal to those interested in exploring less-known locations.
What is the best time to visit the caves in the Ammergauer Alps?
The best time to visit largely depends on the specific cave and your preferred activities. Natural grottoes and outdoor sites are generally best enjoyed during warmer, drier months from spring to autumn. Indoor or artificial grottoes like the Venus Grotto can be visited year-round, though checking their specific opening hours is always recommended.
Are there any caves that are part of a gorge or waterfall system?
Yes, you can find the Entrance to the Ammer Gorge Cave, which is integrated into the natural landscape of the gorge. Additionally, the Schleierfälle (waterfalls) feature a small grotto directly under the overhanging waterfall, offering a unique cave-like experience within a waterfall setting.
Most popular routes in the Ammergauer Alps
Most popular attractions in the Ammergauer Alps
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in the Ammergauer Alps:
