Top 6 Caves around Krattigen
Best caves around Krattigen are found in a region defined by its proximity to Lake Thun and the surrounding Alpine terrain. This area is known for its significant natural features, including impressive cave systems formed over millions of years. Krattigen serves as a starting point for exploring these subterranean environments, which offer insights into geological formations and local history. The landscape around Krattigen provides diverse opportunities for outdoor exploration, with caves being a notable natural landmark.
Best caves around Krattigen
- The most popular caves is St. Beatus Caves, a cave that features magnificent grottoes, halls, and chasms with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Approximately 1 kilometer of the extensive cave system is accessible via well-lit pathways, allowing for individual tours.
- Another must-see spot is Schafloch — West Entrance, a cave and natural monument. This approximately 1000 meter long tunnel crosses under the Sigriswilgrat at the Sigriswiler Rothorn, providing a unique underground passage.
- Visitors also love Schafloch East Entrance, a natural ice cave. This fascinating cave is dark and damp, and was expanded by the Swiss Army during active duty.
- Krattigen is known for accessible show caves and natural ice caves. These include extensive systems with stalactite formations and historical tunnels.
- The caves around Krattigen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 600 photos shared by users.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
St. Beatus Caves
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According to legend, a fire-breathing dragon lived here in the Middle Ages. Saint Beatus approached him with the cross and called on the Holy Trinity, whereupon the dragon threw itself with a roar into Lake Thun and drowned. Saint Beatus is said to have lived here in the cave until his death. Today, the grave of Saint Beatus and a replica of his cell can be viewed at the cave entrance. Part of the Way of St. James runs below the caves.
Further information is available at beatushoehlen.swiss/de.
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Waterfall in front of the Beatus Caves
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Schafloch East Entrance
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Schafloch — West Entrance
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St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot
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Tips from the Community
The hiking trail to the Sigriswiler Rothorn comes close to the tunnel entrance. However, the trail turns left 50 meters before that.
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Parking is subject to a fee... you can pay conveniently with Twint, for example... and it is right at the entrance
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The eastern entrance to the Schafloch is located directly on the ridge path between the Sigriswiler Rothorn and the Fluhhorn. Unlike the more hidden western entrance, the access here is much easier to spot and easily accessible 🪨👣. ⚠️. The tunnel itself is around 20 meters long, slightly curved, and cannot be traversed without light – a headlamp is recommended 🔦! Special feature: At the eastern exit, a spectacular view of the Justistal and the Bernese Alps awaits you ⛰️👀 – ideal for a short break or a panoramic photo 📸.
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The western entrance to the Schafloch is located slightly below the ridge and is easy to miss 👀 – pay attention to the trail markings! The entrance is via a short, steep path that can be slippery when wet ⚠️🥾. From here, the natural rock tunnel leads about 20m through the mountain – a fascinating experience 🪨⛰️. View: Right at the western portal, there is a magnificent view of Lake Thun and the Mittelland 🌄🌊 – be sure to pause for a moment and enjoy! Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots 🥾, possibly poles 🦯. A headlamp 🔦 is useful, as it is quite dark inside the tunnel. A cell phone 📱light will not suffice 😉. Safety: Not suitable in heavy rain or snow – the tunnel floor can become slippery. Recommended only for sure-footed hikers with a head for heights ⚠️. Special feature: The tunnel was formed by geological processes and is a rare natural phenomenon in Switzerland. It is one of the highlights of the Sigriswil ridge hike 🏞️.
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A headlamp must be taken with you in any case.
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Great post! The description of the eastern entrance to Schafloch really drew me in. After reading, I might relax with a quick game of [url=https://geometry-dash.me/]geometry dash[/url]. Thanks for sharing!
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The East Entrance of Schafloch is notable for being one of the primary access points to this natural cave formation. https://geoguessrfree.org
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Very suggestive point on the Thunersee tour route. It is the access to the caves from which a spring flows. The visit to the caves is subject to a fee. However, the uphill path to reach the entrance to the caves is freely accessible. Recommended for the view of the lake from above, the visit to the waterfalls formed by the spring (explanatory panels that tell the state of the fresh water reserves present in Switzerland). Once at the top, the structure from which you access the caves is also a restaurant/bar with a beautiful view of the lake. You can do a circular tour by going up on one side crossing the structure and going down on the opposite side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural features to expect when visiting the caves around Krattigen?
The caves around Krattigen, particularly the St. Beatus Caves, are renowned for their magnificent grottoes, halls, and chasms, featuring impressive stalagmites and stalactites formed over millions of years. You'll also encounter powerful underground waterfalls and gorges. The Schafloch East Entrance, for instance, is a natural ice cave, offering a unique, humid environment.
Are the caves around Krattigen suitable for families with children?
Yes, the St. Beatus Caves are considered family-friendly. Approximately one kilometer of the extensive cave system is accessible via secure, well-lit pathways, making it easy for visitors of all ages to explore. There's also a cave museum that uses infotainment to engage younger visitors.
What is the historical significance of the caves near Krattigen?
The St. Beatus Caves are steeped in legend, said to be the refuge of St. Beatus in the 6th century after he expelled a fire-breathing dragon. The Schafloch — West Entrance and Schafloch East Entrance also have historical importance, having been expanded by the Swiss Army during active duty, serving as a logistics tunnel and lock-up point during World War II.
How long does it take to explore the accessible parts of the St. Beatus Caves?
Visitors can typically explore the accessible one-kilometer section of the St. Beatus Caves in approximately 60 minutes. The well-lit pathways allow for individual tours at a comfortable pace.
What are the accessibility options for reaching the St. Beatus Caves?
The St. Beatus Caves are easily accessible by bus, boat, and car. There are nearby parking spaces available, including the St. Beatus Caves Parking Lot, which offers some wheelchair-accessible facilities for the parking area itself.
Can I visit the caves around Krattigen in winter?
The St. Beatus Caves are an ideal all-weather excursion, offering a fascinating indoor activity even when mountain views are obscured by clouds or during colder months. Special culinary events, such as candlelight cave raclette, are even offered during the winter season.
What should I bring or wear when visiting the caves?
For the St. Beatus Caves, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the well-lit paths. If you plan to explore the Schafloch — West Entrance or Schafloch East Entrance, it is essential to bring a lamp as these natural tunnels are pitch dark and can be damp.
Are there restaurants or cafes near the caves?
Yes, near the St. Beatus Caves, you'll find the Panorama Restaurant. It offers authentic cuisine and views of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks. The restaurant is nestled against the rocks at the cave entrance.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves?
The region around Krattigen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. For example, explore routes like the 'Scenic Lakeside Pathway – Faulensee Lido loop' for running, or 'View of Spiez Bay – View of Lake Thun loop' for road cycling. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Krattigen, Road Cycling Routes around Krattigen, and Running Trails around Krattigen guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves around Krattigen?
The caves, particularly the St. Beatus Caves, are an excellent destination year-round. They provide a cool escape on hot summer days and a fascinating indoor activity during cooler or cloudy weather. The natural ice caves like Schafloch East Entrance can be explored when conditions allow for hiking to their entrances.
Are there any viewpoints near the caves?
Yes, the area around the St. Beatus Caves offers stunning viewpoints. From the Panorama Restaurant and the cave entrance area, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks. The path leading to the caves also crosses bridges over a waterfall, providing scenic vistas.
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