Top 18 Caves around Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann

The caves in the Toggenburg region are rich in history. Wildenmannli’s Cave is known for archaeological findings, including cave bear bones and stone tools from the Mousterian period, suggesting it was one of the oldest human settlements in Obertoggenburg. The Wildkirchli Caves also yielded significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including evidence of Neanderthal presence, establishing the 'Wildkirchli culture'.

Yes, the Wildkirchli Chapel (St. Michael’s Cave Chapel) is a notable religious site. It is a chapel converted from a cave in the 17th century, featuring historical alterations like an altar and a bell tower. It's part of the interconnected Wildkirchli Caves system.

The region is characterized by a fascinating karst landscape, primarily Alpine limestone. This geological formation has created numerous caves with unique features. For instance, the Wildkirchli Caves feature a flat barrel vault in the Altar Cave, while Wildenmannli’s Cave is a 192.1-meter-long Alpine limestone karst cave.

Accessibility varies by cave. The initial meters of Wildenmannli’s Cave are easily traversable on dry ground, though further exploration may involve water. This cave can be reached on foot, via the Selunbahn cable car, or from Alp Sellamatt. The Wildkirchli Caves are situated on the eastern edge of the Ebenalp and are generally accessed via hiking trails.

The area around Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as those detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann guide. For mountain biking, explore trails like those in the MTB Trails around Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann guide, or try gravel biking with routes found in the Gravel biking around Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann guide.

Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty, geological wonder, and profound historical significance. The mystical atmosphere of sites like the Wildkirchli Caves and the historical intrigue of Wildenmannli’s Cave, with its prehistoric findings, are frequently highlighted. The journey to these caves, often involving scenic hikes or cable car rides, is also considered part of the adventure.

When exploring Wildenmannli’s Cave, be aware that while the first few meters are dry, the passage further inside can have water up to 20 centimeters deep. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear. The cave is located on the northern slope of the Selun and can be reached on foot, via the Selunbahn, or from Alp Sellamatt.

The Wildkirchli Caves are unique for being a series of three interconnected caves (Altar Cave, Lower Cave, Upper Cave) that blend natural formation with human history. They are renowned for early paleontological discoveries of cave bear bones and archaeological findings of Neanderthal tools. The Altar Cave also houses the historic Wildkirchli Chapel, and the Lower Cave once served as a hermit's dwelling and now functions as a museum.

Yes, the renovated hermit's house in the Lower Cave of the Wildkirchli Caves has served as a museum since 1972. Hermits resided there during summer months from 1658 to 1853, offering a glimpse into the historical use of these unique cave dwellings.

Given that some caves, like Wildenmannli’s Cave, can have water inside, waterproof footwear is recommended. Layers of clothing are also advisable as cave temperatures can be cooler than outside, even in summer. For exploring, a headlamp or flashlight is always a good idea.

While the initial sections of some caves are easily accessible, further exploration may involve uneven terrain, water, or confined spaces. Always be aware of your surroundings, wear appropriate gear, and consider local conditions. Some areas, particularly in the Wildkirchli Caves, are part of hiking trails that can be steep or exposed.