Caves around Lupburg provide insights into the geological and historical landscape of the Upper Palatinate region in Bavaria, Germany. This area is characterized by its karst topography, leading to the formation of numerous caves, including impressive show caves. The natural environment offers opportunities for exploring underground formations and historical sites.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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The easiest path to the Grossen Hohlloch.
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It's a good idea to bring a warm sweater for your visit, because to enjoy it, you shouldn't have to freeze inside at a constant 8°C. Photo permission costs only a euro and is, of course, worth it.
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Here for the 2nd time, but this time with a visit to the stalactite cave. There is no longer an official tour, but with the help of a brochure or by downloading the audio guide to your cell phone you can learn a lot about the beautiful stalactite cave, which is considered the most beautiful in Germany. I have never seen a more beautiful one. Highly recommended even without a personal tour, as you can choose your own pace. It is also worth mentioning that you can see bats and for an extra €1 you can take as many photos as you like, but without flash. Due to the cold, wet weather, it was warmer and more pleasant in the cave, as there was no wind and no rain.
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Great trail again today, especially in combination with a detour to the plateau and subsequent technical downhill S2-S3.
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Hiasl Cave Hiasl, whose real name was Josef Wiesmeth, was born on January 23, 1881 in Winzer near Regensburg. He originally learned the profession of stonemason. During the 24 years that he lived in his cave, however, he worked as a basket weaver and was paid primarily in kind. However, the real reasons for his migration into the nature of the Labertal are not known. However, it is assumed that he sought solitude because of an unhappy love affair or an argument with his father. The furnishings of his cave: a wooden porch, a kerosene lamp for lighting, his bed - a straw bag with a blanket on wooden slats, his kitchen - a self-made oven, tin dishes, a stool, two boxes for tools, supplies and belongings. His housemates were hedgehogs and mice. The Hiasl earned his living as a craftsman. He wove many a Kirm (back stretcher) and Kretzn (baskets) out of willow branches, hazelnut branches and spruce roots, or he carved rakes. He also repaired broken items that people brought to him. His customers, the farmers and citizens of the area, mostly paid in kind: bread, milk, butter, smoked meat, boiled potatoes, desserts and beer. He bought tobacco and rum and other supplies from his pension, which he received because of a war injury from World War I, in the Scheck general store on the main street in Beratzhausen. During the winter, when the temperatures no longer allowed him to sleep in the cave, the Hiasl spent the nights in the Friesenmühle stable. After the Second World War, the “caveman” became an attraction for the Americans stationed here, who gave him gifts and took photos of him. The cave dweller was spared from illness for many years until he had to be taken to the Parsberg district hospital in the fall of 1948. A document from the hospital shows that the “basket weaver Josef Wiesmeth, a Catholic, who lived in a rock cave in the municipality of Mausheim, died on October 19, 1948.” Source: Information boards on Hiasl-Weg
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There are umpteen trails around the stalactite cave. E.g.: https://www.komoot.de/highlight/1260647 https://www.komoot.de/highlight/3756042 https://www.komoot.de/highlight/695931 Watch out for visitors when driving through. We always make sure that we drive around the rest area.
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The region around Lupburg offers several impressive show caves. The König Otto Dripstone Cave near Velburg is renowned as one of Germany's most beautiful, featuring a wealth of stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations like stalagnates. Another notable option is the Maximiliansgrotte, known for its extensive network of passages and the colossal 'Eisberg' stalagmite, one of Germany's largest.
Yes, the region has caves with rich history. The Hiasl Cave is a historical site where a hermit lived for 24 years, offering a glimpse into local history. Further afield, the Schulerloch Cave is significant for its archaeological finds, having been inhabited by Neanderthals, with artifacts displayed in a nearby museum.
Both the Hohlloch Cave (Velburg) and the König Otto Dripstone Cave are considered family-friendly. The König Otto Dripstone Cave offers guided tours lasting about 45 minutes, making it manageable for most families. The Hohlloch Cave, with its huge entrance and views, is also a great spot for a family outing.
The caves in the Upper Palatinate are known for diverse formations. The König Otto Dripstone Cave features impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and 'stalagnates' where they've grown together, as well as a water-filled 'Schatzkammer'. The Schulerloch Cave boasts a unique 'cup-shaped stalagmite' water basin. Maximiliansgrotte is famous for its 'Eisberg' stalagmite, standing six meters high, and other formations resembling various objects.
Caves in the region maintain a consistently cool temperature year-round. For instance, the König Otto Dripstone Cave is a refreshing 8 degrees Celsius, while Schulerloch Cave and Osterhöhle are around 9 degrees Celsius. Maximiliansgrotte is approximately 8 degrees Celsius. It's always advisable to bring a jacket or sweater, even in summer, due to the cool, humid conditions.
The Osterhöhle near Trondorf offers a more intimate experience. It's a smaller show cave where visitors are provided with flashlights during tours, a tradition from its early days when it was illuminated by carbide lamps. This provides a unique, hands-on feel to the exploration.
The area around Lupburg is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, such as the 'Valley of the Black Laber' loop. There are also running trails, including loops around Lupburg Castle, and various cycling routes like the 'Schwarze Laber Valley' loop. Many of these routes pass near or offer access to the cave areas.
Guided tours vary slightly by cave. At the König Otto Dripstone Cave, tours last approximately 30-40 minutes. The Schulerloch Cave also offers tours of about 30 minutes, which include a multimedia show. Maximiliansgrotte tours cover a portion of its extensive system in about half an hour.
The König Otto Dripstone Cave is partially accessible for wheelchair users, making it a more inclusive option for visitors with mobility challenges. It's always recommended to contact specific cave attractions directly for detailed accessibility information before your visit.
Given the constant cool temperatures inside the caves (typically 8-9 degrees Celsius) and high humidity, it is highly recommended to wear warm clothing, such as a jacket or sweater, even during warmer months. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are also advisable for walking on potentially uneven or damp surfaces.
Yes, some cave locations offer nearby amenities. For example, the Osterhöhle has a traditional Waldschänke (forest tavern) and beer garden nearby, perfect for a meal or drink after your exploration. For other caves, you'll typically find cafes and restaurants in the nearest towns or villages, such as Velburg or Kelheim.
Visitors particularly enjoy the Hohlloch Cave (Velburg) for its impressive, huge cave entrance, which is a popular photo motif. The cave also offers beautiful views over Velburg, making it a scenic spot for exploration and photography.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Lupburg: