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Metzerlen-Mariastein

Top 9 Gorges around Metzerlen-Mariastein

Best canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein include the Chaltbrunnental, a notable gorge-like natural feature in the vicinity. This area offers easy hiking trails through a picturesque valley, providing a retreat during warmer months due to shaded paths. The Chaltbrunnental also features a karst educational trail, offering insights into the region's geology and numerous caves. It is recognized for its natural beauty and accessible outdoor exploration.

Best canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein

  • The most popular canyons is Kaltbrunnental Gorge, a gorge that offers easy…

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Kaltbrunnental Gorge

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Nice valley with easy hiking trails. Pleasantly "cool" in summer because a lot lies in the shade of the trees.

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Easy hike through the Chaltbrunnental. Pleasantly "cool" in summer, as there are many paths in the shade of the trees.
There is also a karst educational trail through the valley, …

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Chastelbach Waterfall

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From Grellingen you hike along the Chastelbach up to Himmelried. The Chastelbach is very original, romantic and very beautiful depending on the light. Because of the beauty of the stream, …

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Dwarves' Grotto

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The rocks of the Grotte des Nains form an impressive gorge, approximately 25 meters high. According to legend, the little women of the earth lived here with the Erdmanala (little …

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Chastelbachtal Waterfalls

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The Chastelbachtal is very beautiful and idyllic, but is warned before ev. Falling stones. Unfortunately, you have to walk at the upper end about 15 m (3 minutes according to …

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Popular around Metzerlen-Mariastein

Hiking around Metzerlen-Mariastein

Road Cycling Routes around Metzerlen-Mariastein

Running Trails around Metzerlen-Mariastein

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Tips from the Community

KarinBlum 🐶🏃🏼‍♀️🥾🏊‍♀️🚲🍄‍🟫
March 5, 2026, Grotte des Nains

A lovingly furnished grotto for the little dwarves

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In addition to its scenic beauty, the Kaltbrunnental Valley is a great outdoor playground for families. The stream offers fun activities and children's canyoning, easy access to the water, and barbecue areas are available. A hot tip, especially in summer.

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https://derstreuner.ch/2023/07/22/chaltbrunnental-chessiloch-chastelbachtal/

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The valley is wonderfully described here https://derstreuner.ch/2023/07/22/chaltbrunnental-chessiloch-chastelbachtal/

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Already 12,000 years ago, gatherers and hunters used the protection of the caves in Chessiloch.

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An enchanted, idyllic place

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Greg
August 13, 2024, Chastelbach Waterfall

Fabulously beautiful place. The narrow part of the gorge could have come from an adventure novel. :)

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The rocks of the Grotte des Nains form an impressive gorge, approximately 25 meters high. According to legend, the little women of the earth lived here with the Erdmanala (little men of the earth). The gorge gives access to the Plateau des Nains and a beautiful view of the Ill valley.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore in the canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein?

The region offers a diverse range of natural features. The Kaltbrunnental Gorge, also known as Chaltbrunnental, is notable for its picturesque valley, shaded paths, and a stream winding through impressive rock walls. You can also find waterfalls like the Chastelbach Waterfall, and fascinating caves such as the Dwarves' Grotto, which features an impressive 25-meter high gorge.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in the canyons near Metzerlen-Mariastein?

Yes, the Chaltbrunnental Nature Reserve is particularly suitable for families. It offers easy hiking trails that are pleasantly cool in summer due to shaded paths. The area is described as an ideal outdoor playground for families, with easy access to the stream for children's canyoning and even barbecue facilities.

What is the best time of year to visit the canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein?

The canyons, especially the Chaltbrunnental, are particularly pleasant during the warmer months. Many paths are shaded by trees, making it an ideal retreat in summer. The cool environment provides a refreshing experience for hikers and families.

Can I learn about the geology of the Metzerlen-Mariastein canyons?

Absolutely. The Chaltbrunnental Nature Reserve features a karst educational trail. This trail provides valuable insights into the area's unique geology and the numerous caves found within the valley, adding an educational dimension to your visit.

What kind of hiking trails can I expect in the Metzerlen-Mariastein canyon areas?

You'll find a variety of trails, from easy walks suitable for families to more intermediate routes. The Kaltbrunnental Gorge offers easy hiking trails through a picturesque valley. For a more romantic experience, you can hike along the Chastelbach towards the Chastelbach Waterfall.

Are there any unique landmarks or viewpoints within the canyons?

Yes, the Dwarves' Grotto is a unique landmark where impressive rocks form a 25-meter high gorge. A crack in the rock allows access to a plateau offering beautiful views of the Ill valley. Additionally, the Hutzme Staircase is an impressive rock wall with caves and a spring.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the canyons in this region?

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and accessibility of the area. Many appreciate the pleasantly cool environment of the Chaltbrunnental in summer, the romantic atmosphere of the Chastelbach, and the impressive rock formations and views from places like the Dwarves' Grotto. The komoot community has given these locations over 600 upvotes and shared more than 140 photos.

What outdoor activities are available near the canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein?

Beyond exploring the canyons themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, including routes that pass through the Kaltbrunnental Gorge. There are also extensive MTB trails and cycling routes in the surrounding area for those looking for more active adventures.

Are there opportunities for canyoning or wild swimming in the area?

While not traditional large-scale canyoning, the Chaltbrunnental offers opportunities for 'Kinder-Canyoning' (children's canyoning) in its stream, with easy access to the water. The cool stream provides a refreshing experience, especially during summer.

How accessible are the canyons by public transport or car, and is parking available?

Many areas, such as the Chaltbrunnental Nature Reserve, are easily accessible by public transportation. For those traveling by car, parking facilities are generally available near popular starting points for trails, though it's always advisable to check specific locations beforehand.

Are there any historical or cultural aspects to the canyons around Metzerlen-Mariastein?

Yes, the region has some historical context. For instance, the Kaltbrunnental Gorge area has evidence of early human activity, with gatherers and hunters using the protection of caves in Chessiloch as far back as 12,000 years ago. The Dwarves' Grotto also carries local legends about mythical creatures inhabiting the hollows of the gorges.

What is the 'Hutzme Staircase' and what can I do there?

The Hutzme Staircase is an impressive rock wall that connects the communities of Hochwald and Duggingen. Besides being a scenic point with caves and a spring, it is also suitable for climbing, offering a more challenging activity for experienced visitors.

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Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Metzerlen-Mariastein for your next adventure:

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