Top 14 Caves around Elgersburg
Caves around Elgersburg, situated within the Thuringian Forest, present a diverse landscape of natural rock formations and historical underground sites. The region is characterized by its geological history, including Muschelkalk formations, and its connection to historical figures and mining activities. These features provide varied experiences for visitors interested in geology, history, and outdoor exploration.
Best caves around Elgersburg
- The most popular caves is Burnt Stone Tunnel, a cave that is described as a medieval tunnel leading to an expansive view. This historical tunnel, approximately 20 meters long, was created to facilitate wood removal in the Middle Ages.
- Another must-see spot is Goethe Cave at Hermannstein, a man-made cave within the Großer Hermannstein rock formation. Visitors can explore a site frequently visited by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who also made drawings of it.
- Visitors also love Kammerlöcher Rock Formations, a natural monument featuring impressive rock structures, steep slopes, and multiple caves. This area offers an adventurous experience for hikers and nature lovers, showcasing geological history and diverse flora.
- Elgersburg is known for its natural rock formations, historical tunnels, and man-made caves. The area provides a variety of underground attractions, from natural geological features to sites with mining and literary significance.
- The caves around Elgersburg are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1500 upvotes and over 1600 photos shared by users.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Burnt Stone Tunnel
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A tunnel steeped in history, after which an incredibly beautiful view opens up. Be sure to take a break and enjoy the view.🥰
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Goethe Cave at Hermannstein
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Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal
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It is the mouth of a tunnel that is connected to a shaft 50 meters above the mountainside.
The dump at the approach of the shaft is quite large (25 x 25 x 8 m) and speaks for the largest mining location on the Ringberg.
It is certain that the description of the mine “Ehre Gottes” by the Princely Saxon mining director J. M. Paräus from 1691 corresponds to our mine.
(Source: eisenstrasse.de)
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Kammerlöcher Rock Formations
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Großer Herrmannstein and Cave
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Tips from the Community
Even if the ascent is not possible in winter, the view from below also offers a good outlook and comfortable benches for a break
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The burnt out stone at Oberhof is an artificial breakthrough through the rock. It was important for the Lütsche Flößgraben when it was built. The alternation of fire and ice-cold water made the stone brittle and could be worked with mining tools. A 38 m long, 2.3 m high and 2.2 m wide tunnel was created. If you follow the path further you come to the “Hohen Stein” with a wonderful view. The path back to Oberhof leads past the upper Sieglitzteich. Source: http://www.wandern-im-thueringer-wald.de/ausbrenner-stein-luetsche-floessgraben
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Not to be expected from the valley. Still a little insider tip
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Nicely prepared tunnel entrance
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A station on the Ringberg Mining Trail.
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Below it goes to the cave, which is rather unspectacular and via the stairs directly to the Great Hermannsfelsen with a beautiful view
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Here below the Ringberg you can find the butter well and its world of legends. It is located in a part where mining used to take place.
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The tunnel was built by miners in 1704. You can easily walk through it without a lamp. In winter there are wonderful icicles. A nice highlight on the hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves and rock formations can I explore near Elgersburg?
Near Elgersburg, you can explore a diverse range of sites, from man-made historical tunnels like the Burnt Stone Tunnel, to natural geological wonders such as the Kammerlöcher Rock Formations. There are also caves with literary connections, like the Goethe Cave at Hermannstein, and historical mining portals like the Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal.
Are there any caves with historical significance in the Elgersburg area?
Yes, several sites hold historical significance. The Goethe Cave at Hermannstein was frequently visited by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and likely served as a medieval guardhouse. The Burnt Stone Tunnel is a medieval tunnel created to facilitate wood removal. Additionally, the Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal marks the entrance to a historical manganese ore mine, dating back to 1691.
Which caves or rock formations offer impressive views?
The Burnt Stone Tunnel leads to an incredibly beautiful view, making it a rewarding stop. Climbing the Großer Hermannstein, where the Goethe Cave is located, also offers stunning panoramic views of the Thuringian Forest. The Kammerlöcher Rock Formations also provide wonderful views after a hike through untouched nature.
Are there family-friendly caves to visit around Elgersburg?
Yes, both the Burnt Stone Tunnel and the Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal are categorized as family-friendly. These sites offer interesting historical insights and natural beauty that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
What geological features characterize the caves and rock formations near Elgersburg?
The region's geology is characterized by Muschelkalk formations, which originated during the Saxonian mountain building process approximately 140 million years ago. The Kammerlöcher Rock Formations are a prime example, showcasing a complex system of natural rock structures, steep slopes, and gorges formed from Muschelkalk.
Can I combine a visit to the caves with hiking?
Absolutely. The caves and rock formations are often integrated into hiking routes. For example, the Goethe Cave at Hermannstein is part of popular routes like the 'Kickelhahn Tower – Great Hermannstein loop'. You can find various hiking options in the area by exploring easy hikes around Elgersburg.
Are there other outdoor activities available near the caves?
Beyond hiking, the Elgersburg area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling around Elgersburg, including challenging loops and moderate tours. There are also dedicated running trails around Elgersburg for those looking for a jog.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/168634" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Burnt Stone Tunnel</a>?
Visitors describe the Burnt Stone Tunnel as an unexpected and unique experience. They appreciate the historical aspect of this medieval tunnel and the incredibly beautiful view that opens up after passing through it. It's considered a great spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/77075" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goethe Cave at Hermannstein</a> a special place to visit?
The Goethe Cave is special due to its connection to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who frequently visited and drew the site. Visitors can explore a place that inspired one of Germany's greatest literary figures. The steep climb to the cave is rewarded with stunning views, and there's even a smaller cave behind the main one to discover.
What should I know before exploring the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/141212" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kammerlöcher Rock Formations</a>?
The Kammerlöcher Rock Formations offer an adventurous experience with impressive rock structures, steep slopes, and multiple caves and gorges. Sturdy footwear is essential if you plan to explore all areas due to the varied terrain. The area is also steeped in local legends, including tales of dwarves.
Is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/435264" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal</a> accessible for exploration?
The Butterbrunnen Tunnel Portal is the mouth of a historical mining tunnel. While you can visit the tunnel entrance and learn about its industrial history, the tunnel itself is generally not walkable. Visitors often find it interesting to see the portal and the nearby large dump, which indicates significant past mining activity.
Are there any specific tips for visiting the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/77075" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goethe Cave at Hermannstein</a>?
When visiting the Goethe Cave, be sure to go all the way to the top of Großer Hermannstein to enjoy the panoramic views. The steps can be relatively narrow and steep, so sure-footedness is recommended. Don't miss the small, additional cave located behind the main one, which is also worth seeing.
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