Top 9 Caves around Extertal
Best caves around Extertal are found in a region characterized by picturesque landscapes and significant geological formations. While Extertal itself does not feature prominent natural caves, the surrounding area offers unique man-made and natural cave-like structures. The nearby Externsteine, for instance, presents a complex of chambers carved into sandstone, holding deep historical and cultural significance. This area provides a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration, making it a notable destination for those interested in geological and man-made subterranean features.
Best caves around Extertal
- The most popular caves is Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel, an other man-made site featuring a mine tunnel with a constant cool temperature. This location is also noted for its views of the Papenbrink and an old quarry.
- Another must-see spot is Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont, a cave known for its natural carbon dioxide emissions. Visitors can experience the unique properties of the CO2 gas, which has been a point of interest since the 18th century.
- Visitors also love Oberberg Crevice, a narrow natural monument. This crevice offers an interesting geological feature for those exploring the area.
- Extertal is known for man-made tunnels, historical cave complexes, and unique geological gas emissions. The region offers a variety of subterranean experiences, from carved sandstone chambers to natural CO2 caves.
- The caves around Extertal are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 760 upvotes and more than 710 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont
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In the pit one found again and again dead birds and other animals. As the Pyrmont Fountain Doctor Johann Philipp Seip came to Pyrmont in 1712, he followed these apparitions. He came to the conclusion that it was sulfuric art, since carbon dioxide was not known at that time.
With the permission of Prince Friedrich Anton Ulrich to Waldeck and Pyrmont he had 1720 "build a stone vault over the steaming pit and build a small vaulted wall over there to set up a dry pool of sweat.
The strange behavior of the CO2 gas has impressed visitors since Seip until today.
It is one and a half times heavier than air, so it stays in the pit and responds mainly to air temperature and pressure. In the CO2 gas you get a feeling of warmth. At the same time, the temperature of the gas in the vapor chamber is considerably cooler in the summer at high air temperatures. In winter it is the other way around.
The explanation of this phenomenon is the circulation-promoting effect of the gas.
The building above the haze and the guardhouse were renovated in 2000 and the park was redesigned.
Source (regi-on.de/kultur-freizeit/freizeit-erholung/sehenswuerdigkeiten/62.htm)
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Dunsthöhle (Vapor Cave) Bad Pyrmont
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Oberberg Crevice
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Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel
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Former Kleinenbremen Quarry
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Popular around Extertal
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The Oberberg fissure in the Weser Uplands is a narrow, natural crevice in the limestone of the Oberberg mountain and is one of the region's geological features. It lies well hidden on a steep slope and resembles a deep, inaccessible crack in the rock less than a cave. Due to its narrow structure, slippery limestone walls, and partially unstable floor, hiking guides advise against entering the fissure. It is precisely this mysterious yet difficult-to-access appearance that makes it such a fascinating place, best viewed from a distance.
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Beautiful facility to linger
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The Haze Cave is unique in Germany. It is located on the site of a former quarry where red sandstone was extracted in the 17th century. Quarry workers noticed a "haze" at a certain depth that caused people to faint. Dead birds were repeatedly found in the pit. Well doctor Dr. Johann Philipp Seip came to Pyrmont in 1712 and investigated the phenomenon. He suspected it was sulfur vapor. Carbon dioxide (CO2) was only discovered a few years later as atmospheric acid. The metal half-shells symbolize the numerous springs in Bad Pyrmont.
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You should visit. A nice experience.
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The haze cave is on the site of a former quarry where red sandstone was quarried in the 17th century. Quarry workers noticed a "haze" at a certain depth that caused people to faint. Again and again dead birds and animals were found in the pit. When the well-known well doctor Dr. Johann Philipp Seip came to Pyrmont in 1712 and got to the bottom of the apparitions. He assumed it was sulfur vapor. Carbon dioxide (CO2) was only discovered as atmospheric acid a few years later. In self-experiments, through "repeated sweating and drawing in the sulphurous fumes", Seip found out that this does not contain any toxic substances. With the permission of Prince Friedrich Anton Ulrich zu Waldeck von Pyrmont, he had a stone vault built over the steaming pit in 1720. Above it is a small building, about "6 shoes square and 10 shoes high", to prepare a dry bath for spa guests. However, the dry weld pool could not be used continuously because of the non-constant level of carbon dioxide. Seip, on the other hand, found that people of all walks of life "vaunt good recovery and help against swelling of the feet, gout pains and stiffness of the limbs". Source: https://www.staatsbad-pyrmont.de/bad-pyrmont-erleben/naturphaenomen-dunsthoehle
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CAUTION: With high humidity, the risk of slipping is very high in the area. (roots, stones)
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The haze cave is on the site of a former quarry where red sandstone was quarried in the 17th century. Quarry workers noticed a "haze" at a certain depth that made people faint. Dead birds and animals are also found in the pit from time to time. When the well-known well doctor Dr. Johann Phillip Seip came to Pyrmont in 1712 and got to the bottom of the apparitions. He assumed it was sulfur vapor. Carbon dioxide CO2 was only discovered as atmospheric acid a few years later.
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In 2006, the Wohlverwahrt iron ore pit was recognized as a national geotope and has thus been included in the list of the most important geotopes in Germany. Source: Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of subterranean sites can I explore around Extertal?
The region around Extertal offers a unique blend of man-made and natural subterranean features. You can find historical cave complexes, such as the Externsteine with its carved chambers, and unique geological sites like the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont, known for its natural carbon dioxide emissions. There are also man-made tunnels like the Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel.
Are there any historically significant caves or rock formations in the area?
Yes, the Externsteine are a highly significant historical site. This striking sandstone formation features man-made caves and carvings, with evidence suggesting spiritual use since pre-Celtic times. By the 12th century, it served as a Christian place of worship and dwellings for hermits, featuring a notable relief carving of the "Descent from the Cross".
What is the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont known for?
The Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont is unique for its natural carbon dioxide emissions. Visitors can experience the unusual properties of the CO2 gas, which is heavier than air and creates a distinct atmosphere. This phenomenon has fascinated visitors since the 18th century.
Is the Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel accessible to visitors?
The Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel is a man-made site featuring a mine tunnel that maintains a constant cool temperature, even on hot days. It's also noted for its views of the Papenbrink and an old quarry. It can be reached on foot via the hiking car park in the hairpin bends from Todenmann to Kleinenbremen.
Are there any natural crevices or geological features to explore?
Yes, the Oberberg Crevice is a narrow natural monument that offers an interesting geological feature for those exploring the area. It's a challenging spot due to its narrowness, so caution is advised.
What outdoor activities can I do near these caves?
The region around Extertal offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, with routes like the 'Steinberg Viewpoint (Former Missile Base) – Sternberg Castle loop from Silixen'. There are also many easy hikes, such as the 'View of the Sunntigrain Valley – Bürgerwald Extertal loop from Heimbachtal', and gravel biking routes like the 'Rintelner Straße Scenic Path – Panoramic cycle path near Borlefzen loop from Mühlenberg'.
Are the caves around Extertal suitable for families?
Many of the sites, such as the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont and the Externsteine, are considered family-friendly. The historical and geological aspects can be engaging for children, especially with guided tours available at some locations. The surrounding natural areas also offer opportunities for family-friendly walks.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves and rock formations?
The Externsteine and other outdoor sites are enjoyable year-round, with spring and autumn offering pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploration. The unique properties of the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont's CO2 gas can be experienced in different ways depending on the season, as its temperature response varies between summer and winter.
What do visitors enjoy most about the caves and sites near Extertal?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and unique geological features. The Externsteine are praised for their cultural significance and scenic beauty, while the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont offers a fascinating natural phenomenon. The Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel is noted for its cool temperatures and views. The komoot community has shared over 710 photos and given more than 760 upvotes for these sites.
Are there any castles or historical buildings near the cave sites?
Yes, Pyrmont Castle is located nearby. This impressive castle, with its square moat, was once the residence of the Count of Spiegelberg and now houses a museum. It's an imposing building from the 18th century and part of the 16th-century fortress Pyrmont.
Are there any specific regulations for visiting the Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont?
The Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont can only be visited with a guided tour. These tours are highly recommended for their interesting explanations of the unique CO2 phenomenon.
Where can I find information about parking or public transport to these sites?
For the Papenbrink Quarry and Mine Tunnel, there is a hiking car park available in the hairpin bends from Todenmann to Kleinenbremen. For other sites like the Externsteine and Dunsthöhle Bad Pyrmont, it's advisable to check local tourist information for specific parking and public transport options, as these can vary.
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