Caves hold a certain fascination for us humans. What lies hidden there in the darkness, in all those branching passages and holes? To satisfy this curiosity in a safe way, you can visit one of the many Bavarian tourist caves. Stalactite and stalagmite caves such as the Teufelshöhle, the König-Otto-Tropfsteinhöhle, or the Schulerloch are particularly popular. But there are also caves worth seeing that have no stalagmites or stalactites at all, which you can explore. The Sturmannshöhle in the Allgäu region impresses not only with its narrow crevices and fascinating rock formations, but above all with its underground lake.
Down into the Dragon’s Realm
The Sturmannshöhle has a history stretching back 120 million years, yet it wasn’t until 1815 that an explorer first ventured inside. He didn’t get very far, but he took the first step toward exploring the cave. It wasn’t until 1904 that the 460-meter-long fissure was finally fully explored and subsequently made accessible to visitors. Since then, stairs, lighting, and walkways have been installed, and it is the only tourist cave in the region that you can visit.
First, you’ll need to descend 180 steps to reach a depth of about 300 meters. Then your actual expedition begins in the Allgäu’s only fissure cave. On your tour, you’ll learn more about the geology of the Sturmannshöhle and admire rock formations that are many millions of years old. You’ll wind your way through narrow crevices and duck under low passageways , while below you the stream rushes along , eventually flowing into a lake.
No wonder so many myths surround this adventurous cave. In the past, people believed there was a treasure here— a barrel full of gold ducats. While some said a dragon guarded it, others spoke of a giant boulder suspended by only a thin rope that would crush anyone who dared to try to take the treasure . Still others believed in a little man who had to do penance here by counting the coins in the treasure, though the count never ever added up.
Adventure in the Sturmannshöhle
During your visit to the cave, you’ll hear many other myths and legends. And exciting stories await you even on your way there. The Sturmannshöhle is located in Schwarzenberg near the town of Obermaiselstein, and its entrance is at an elevation of 978 meters. The hike takes about half an hour and takes you along the Sagenweg trail, which tells you, among other things, the legends of the Wild Maidens and the Hirschsprung.
Unlike many other tourist caves, the Sturmannshöhle is open year-round. In the summer, you’ll find a cool respite here, while in the winter, bats make their home inside. The temperature in the cave remains between 4 and 8°C at all times, so be sure to dress warmly. Sturdy footwear is also essential to safely navigate both the ascent and the tour. Your visit to the Sturmannshöhle can also be easily combined with a stay in Oberstdorf or Bad Hindelang if you plan to spend more than just one day in the Allgäu region.
📍Location: Haubenegg, 87538 Obermaiselstein
🕐 Hours: Guided tours every hour from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
💶 Prices: €6 for adults, €3 for children
