Top 11 Caves around Amden
Best caves around Amden are found within a region of Switzerland known for its diverse natural geological formations, including significant cave systems and dramatic gorges. This area offers a range of underground features, from accessible cave sections to extensive karst springs. The landscape is characterized by its mountainous terrain and water-carved formations.
Best caves around Amden
- The most popular caves is Wildenmannli’s Cave, a cave located on the northern slope of the Seluns at an altitude of around 1628 meters. The initial section is accessible with dry feet, with water depths reaching about 20 centimeters further inside.
- Another must-see spot is Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle, which includes one of Europe's largest karst springs and an extensive, kilometer-long cave system. Visitors can observe the powerful Rinquelle where water emerges from the mountain.
- Visitors also love Ofenloch Gorge, a gorge that features deep ravines, waterfalls, and mentions of caves within its spectacular landscape. It offers impressive natural formations and challenging paths.
- Amden is known for karst springs, natural caves, and cave systems. The region provides a variety of underground formations to explore.
- The caves around Amden are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 500 upvotes and more than 700 photos shared by users.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Thur Waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
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Ofenloch Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
This highlight is at the bottom of the gorge and can only be reached from the Ampferenboden side via Necker-Bach. The waterfall shown in many photos (see September highlight) is not here (!), but one floor higher and only accessible from the upper dashed path, not from the lower gorge path.
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Wildenmannli’s Cave
Highlight • Cave
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Ofenloch and Waterfalls in the Neckar Gorge
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
Gigantic spectacle of nature
The best view of all three levels of the waterfall is from the chapel in Betlis. The middle of the three cascades is one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in the world with a height of 305 meters.
Refreshing destination
Coming from Weesen or Quinten, the Seerenbach Falls with the source of the Rin are a special highlight of every hike. It is a short hike from the picturesque village of Betlis to stand on the viewing platform at the foot of the third cascade and watch the roaring waterfalls up close. In warm weather, they provide cool refreshment. In spring after the snow has melted or after heavy rainfall, the Seerenbach Falls are particularly impressive due to the large amounts of water.
Mystery source of Rin
Where the Seerenbach falls imposingly fall into the valley, they unite with the Rinquelle, one of the largest karst springs in Europe. At the beginning of the 20th century, researchers began to study the source of the Rin and the cave system that branched out for kilometers. There is a turnoff about three kilometers from the cave entrance. From here the water disappears inside the mountain. Where? That will probably remain a secret.
See also: Christian Steiner - cave diver at Lake Walen
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Tips from the Community
On the eastern side of the Seluner-Ruck there is a cave, the Wildmannlisloch. Its gate is so large that one can drive in with a horse and cart. It leads an hour and a half deep into the mountain, and the passages inside are so wide that several men can walk upright side by side. At the front the wild men have carved out tables and benches for themselves; a quarter of an hour further in is a small lake, surrounded by boulders; the dwarves have rolled around these to form cool resting places; even further back are the dwellings. The dwarves lived on roots and milk. They helped the neighboring herdsmen to "shear" the stables, feed the cattle, and make hay on the mountain. Once they fetched the midwife from Starkenbach, who had to assist a wild woman. As a reward she received an entire apron full of lumps of earth. On the long way out of the cave, however, she paid no attention to the worthless gift; When she came out into the daylight and looked at the last piece, it was pure gold. Rochholz, Swiss legends.
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Great gorge at Ofenloch, safety is mandatory
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You can explore this cave on your own; a headlamp and waterproof shoes are a good idea. You sometimes have to bend down a bit, so be careful.
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Further information can be found at the following link: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thurf%C3%A4lle
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Waterproof shoes or rubber boots are needed to explore more than just the front third of this impressive 150m cave!
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The path from Alm Ellbogen to here is somewhat exposed in two passages. But a spectacular experience for people with a head for heights.
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The path is particularly worthwhile in spring and autumn, when the many deciduous trees have no leaves and do not obscure the view of the canyon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves can I explore around Amden?
Amden offers a variety of geological formations, including natural caves, extensive karst spring systems, and gorges that feature cave-like structures. You can find accessible cave sections, significant underground water systems, and even places of contemplation like the Maria Cave.
Are there any accessible caves for beginners or families in Amden?
Yes, Wildenmannli’s Cave is a good option, especially for families. The initial section is easily accessible with dry feet, and it's described as a real experience for kids. While the water depth increases further inside, the beginning is suitable for less experienced explorers.
What is unique about the Rinquelle cave system near Amden?
The Rinquelle is one of Europe's largest karst springs and is part of an extensive, kilometer-long cave system. While not a typical walk-in cave for tourists, it's significant for its geological importance, showcasing a powerful natural spring where water mysteriously disappears into the mountain. You can observe the powerful Rinquelle at Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle.
Can I find historical or cultural sites related to caves in Amden?
Yes, Wildenmannli’s Cave is considered a historical site, with local lore describing 'wild men' carving tables and benches inside. Additionally, the Maria Cave at Fallenbach/Sellbach, built in 1991, serves as a place of worship and contemplation, offering a serene cultural experience.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near the caves?
The region around Amden's caves is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see dramatic gorges like Ofenloch Gorge with deep ravines and waterfalls, powerful springs such as the Rinquelle, and stunning viewpoints, including those overlooking Lake Walensee near the Maria Cave.
Are there hiking trails that lead to or near the caves in Amden?
Absolutely. Many caves and gorges are integrated into hiking routes. For instance, Wildenmannli’s Cave can be reached on foot, via the Selunbahn, or from Alp Sellamatt. You can find various hiking options in the area, including routes to the Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle. Explore more hiking trails around Amden on the Hiking around Amden guide.
What should I wear when exploring caves in Amden?
When exploring caves like Wildenmannli’s Cave, where water can be up to 20 centimeters deep further inside, it's advisable to wear waterproof footwear and clothing that you don't mind getting wet. For gorges like Ofenloch, surefootedness is required, and hiking poles are recommended.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves around Amden?
The best time to visit depends on the specific cave and your activity. For caves with water, like Wildenmannli’s Cave, warmer months might be more comfortable. For waterfalls and springs like Seerenbach Falls and Rinquelle, spring after snowmelt or after heavy rainfall offers the most impressive water volumes. Some gorges, like Ofenloch, are best explored in dry conditions due to challenging paths.
Are there any challenging cave or gorge explorations for experienced adventurers?
Yes, the Ofenloch Gorge and Ofenloch and Waterfalls in the Neckar Gorge offer challenging paths with deep ravines, waterfalls, and spectacular formations, requiring surefootedness and sometimes hiking poles. The Rinquelle system also presents extensive, unexplored depths for researchers, though it's not a tourist caving destination.
What do visitors enjoy most about the caves and natural formations in Amden?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive natural beauty, the mystical and original landscapes of the gorges, and the powerful spectacle of waterfalls and springs. The blend of accessible sections with intriguing legends, like those at Wildenmannli’s Cave, also adds to the appeal. The region's diverse geological features provide a unique outdoor experience.
Are there other outdoor activities I can do near the caves in Amden?
Yes, Amden is a great base for various outdoor activities. Besides exploring caves and gorges, you can enjoy extensive hiking trails, mountain hikes, and running routes. For example, you can find routes that take you past the Seerenbach Falls or offer views of Lake Walensee. Discover more options on the Hiking around Amden, Mountain Hikes around Amden, and Running Trails around Amden guides.
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