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Switzerland
Eastern Switzerland
St. Gallen

Sennwald

Top 15 Caves around Sennwald

Best caves around Sennwald are found in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley, a region characterized by its diverse natural landscapes and historical significance. This area offers a blend of geological formations and cultural sites, making it a point of interest for outdoor enthusiasts. The terrain includes mountainous areas and valleys, providing varied opportunities for exploration.

Best caves around Sennwald

  • The most popular caves is Wildkirchli Caves, a cave system that features three interconnected wide caves at an altitude of…

Last updated: May 16, 2026

Wildkirchli Chapel (St. Michael’s Cave Chapel)

Highlight • Religious Site

Wildkirchli, Chapel of St. Michael - history
In 1621, Father Philippus Tanner from Appenzell went to the Wildkirchli to bless the cattle. He was so taken with this cave that …

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Wildkirchli Caves

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A mystical place that must be passed through on the way through the rock face to Ebenalp.

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Thur Waterfalls

Highlight • Waterfall

Just a few minutes from the post bus stop in Unterwasser, it's accessible on a flat path. A beautiful gorge awaits. Along the way, there's a barbecue area on the banks of the Säntisthur.

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Kristallhöhle Kobelwald

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Great cave, definitely worth a visit.

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Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruin

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Wiechenstein Castle Ruins, a former four-story castle in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley.

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Tips from the Community

Roger Eggenberger 🐾👣
July 1, 2025, Wildkirchli Caves

What was built here is simply brilliant.

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Simply magnificent here..

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Our mountain guesthouse has seen many a proud face after the steep climb. The guesthouse, in its current form, has existed since 1860, making it one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. Pastor Ulmann was the first hermit to live in the hermitage in the Wildkirchli in 1658. More than 20 men followed his example until 1853, shaping the history of the Wildkirchli as hermits and first hosts. Since then, this mystical place has fascinated generations. Stories are told of little wild people who are said to have once lived in the Wildkirchli caves and come to the aid of the herdsmen. The Aescher inspires poets and artists to create new works. Bones of cave bears and stone tools bear witness to the cave's ancient shelter. Source: https://aescher.ch/

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7

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Very impressive, beautiful to look at! Services are also held here.

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A great cave, with very interesting information. The hiking trail leads directly through the cave.

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Great cave, definitely worth a visit.

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Wiechenstein Castle Ruins, a former four-story castle in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley.

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Paul
August 3, 2024, Wildkirchli Caves

former hermit's house / Wildkirchli caves Below the Ebenalp are the world-famous Wildkirchli caves with the former hermit's house and the neighboring altar cave. This place gained world fame due to archaeological excavations that uncovered a large number of cave bear skeletons and tools from the Paleolithic period. Text / Source: Appenzellerland Tourismus AI, Hauptgasse 38, CH-9050 Appenzell https://www.appenzell.ch/de/alpstein/perlen-des-alpsteins/wildkirchlihoehle.html

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the caves around Sennwald unique?

The caves around Sennwald offer a diverse range of experiences, from the unique calcite crystal formations found in Kristallhöhle Kobelwald to the archaeological and historical significance of the Wildkirchli Caves, where evidence of Neanderthal presence and cave bear bones have been discovered. The region also features cave chapels and even cave castle ruins.

Are there any historical or archaeological sites within the caves near Sennwald?

Yes, the Wildkirchli Caves are renowned for their archaeological significance, with finds indicating Neanderthal presence and cave bear bones. Additionally, the Wildkirchli Chapel (St. Michael’s Cave Chapel) is a religious building located within a cave, serving as a chapel since 1657 with historical artifacts.

What natural features can I expect to see in the caves around Sennwald?

In Kristallhöhle Kobelwald, you can marvel at impressive calcite crystal formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, with a small cave river flowing along the tour path. The Wildkirchli Caves are three interconnected wide caves set in a dramatic rock face.

Are the caves around Sennwald suitable for families?

Yes, several caves are family-friendly. Kristallhöhle Kobelwald is an ideal destination for family outings, offering an atmospheric experience with developed paths and guided tours. The Wildkirchli Caves are also accessible via a hiking trail, making them suitable for families who enjoy a walk.

What are the accessibility considerations for visiting the caves?

For Kristallhöhle Kobelwald, the main passage is 367 meters long, with the first 128 meters developed with trails and electric light. Helmets are provided, and good, water-resistant footwear is recommended due to the cave river. The Wildkirchli Caves are located at an altitude of 1488-1500 m and are reached via a hiking trail.

Do I need special gear to explore the caves near Sennwald?

For Kristallhöhle Kobelwald, helmets are provided, and water-resistant footwear is highly recommended due to the presence of a cave river. For the Wildkirchli Caves, standard hiking gear is sufficient as the trail leads through them.

Are there guided tours available for the caves?

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for Kristallhöhle Kobelwald to fully appreciate its history and unique features. Information on tour availability and booking can typically be found on their official website.

What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves near Sennwald?

The region around Sennwald offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including those that lead to the Wildkirchli Caves. There are also extensive MTB trails and gravel biking routes in the area for those looking for more adventurous pursuits.

Can I visit a chapel inside a cave near Sennwald?

Yes, the Wildkirchli Chapel (St. Michael’s Cave Chapel) is a notable religious building situated within a cave. It has served as a chapel since 1657 and features an altar, a bell tower, and historical artifacts, offering a unique spiritual and historical experience.

Are there any cave castle ruins to explore near Sennwald?

Yes, the Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruin is a fascinating site. It was originally a four-story castle built within a deep cave, with a preserved shield wall. Access is via a short, relatively steep forest path, offering a unique blend of natural and historical exploration.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the caves in this region?

Visitors frequently praise the mystical atmosphere of the Wildkirchli Caves and the impressive historical context of the Wildkirchli Chapel. The Kristallhöhle Kobelwald is highly regarded for its unique crystal formations and captivating experience, often described as a great excursion for all ages.

What is special about the Kristallhöhle Kobelwald?

Kristallhöhle Kobelwald is renowned for its unique and impressive calcite crystal formations, which cover entire sections of its walls. It's a water-bearing cave with a small river flowing through it, and features stalactites and stalagmites, creating a truly atmospheric and unique underground experience in Switzerland.

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