Top 16 Caves around Warstein
Best caves around Warstein are situated within the Sauerland region of Germany, an area known for its limestone geology and active subterranean water systems. This geological setting has led to the formation of numerous caves, some of which hold significant archaeological and historical value. The region offers insights into natural geological processes and past human habitation.
Best caves around Warstein
- The most popular caves is Hollow Stone, a cave that served as a hunting quarters for Stone Age hunters. Archaeological finds from the late Paleolithic and pre-Roman Iron Age have been discovered here.
- Another must-see spot is Bilstein Cave, a stalactite cave known for its impressive formations. It is easy to walk through and is part of a larger cave system with an active subterranean river.
- Visitors also love Veleda Cave, a deep cave formed by erosion and water. At around 50 meters deep, it is one of the deepest in North Rhine-Westphalia.
- Warstein is known for dripstone caves, archaeological caves, and deep cave systems. The region offers a variety of caves to see and explore, from accessible show caves to historically significant sites.
- The caves around Warstein are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1440 upvotes and over 1320 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Hollow Stone
Highlight • Cave
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Bilsteintal Wildlife Park
Highlight • Natural
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Bilstein Cave
Highlight • Cave
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Hohler Stein Cave
Highlight • Cave
On the way to the cave I cross the Lörmecke again. I let the area and the rock face have an effect on me, and take a few pictures. Then I go to the main entrance of the cave. It really isn't very deep, not comparable to the Feldhof cave in MK (see other tour), but despite everything it is present and has an impact. My spirit of adventure was awakened even before the tour, full of anticipation for the tour and the cave.
I enter the cave, walk to the end, always carefully, as the ground is uneven and covered in stones.
About 12,000 years ago in the Iron Age, hunters hunted reindeer here during their spring migration, killed them and, based on the bone finds, used the rear part of the cave as a hunting quarters and processed the reindeer. In the 1920s and 1930s, Eberhard Henneböhle and Julius Andree carried out excavations in the Hohlen Stein. They found numerous finds from the late Paleolithic and pre-Roman Iron Age, during which finds prove that the cave served as a burial site around 750 BC.
During the Thirty Years' War, the cave served as a hiding place for counterfeiters who counterfeited the 6 Pfennig coins of the city of Werl.
I let the historical place have an effect on me, taking lots of pictures and videos.
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Veleda Cave
Highlight • Cave
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Tips from the Community
South of Bestwig-Velmede lies the Veleda Cave. It is a cave of significant natural and cultural history. The name of the cave is associated with the Germanic seeress Veleda.
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A famous seer is said to have once lived there. In any case, it is a testament to times past. Tours are offered during the summer months; in winter, numerous bats live here.
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The cave can be entered as already described, but can also be left through a low passage on the side!
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Very interesting rock formations to see
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The Hohle Stein invites you to take a rest.
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It is not the small opening on the right side of the path. The actual cave can be reached via a small path to the top right.
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Short (paid) tours depending on demand, at least every 45 minutes, lots of explanations - not just about stalagmites, stalactites and stalagnates, but about the entire formation and previous cave. Dogs are also allowed on a leash, just note that there are a few stairs. PS: Sorry, guys, but did you understand that the highlight is called "BilsteinHÖHLE" and not "Tierpark" or "Bilsteinfelsen"? It would be nice if the photos were uploaded accordingly!
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Suddenly the forest splits and a beautiful valley opens up with a huge rock formation in the background. In the middle is a large hole, the cave, my first destination. On the way to the cave I cross the Lörmecke again. I let the area and the rock face have an effect on me, and take a few pictures. Then I go to the main entrance of the cave. It really isn't very deep, not comparable to the Feldhof cave in MK (see other tour), but despite everything it is present and has an impact. My spirit of adventure was awakened even before the tour, full of anticipation for the tour and the cave. I enter the cave, walk to the end, always carefully, as the ground is uneven and covered in stones. About 12,000 years ago in the Iron Age, hunters hunted reindeer here during their spring migration, killed them and, based on the bone finds, used the rear part of the cave as a hunting quarters and processed the reindeer. In the 1920s and 1930s, Eberhard Henneböhle and Julius Andree carried out excavations in the Hohlen Stein. They found numerous finds from the late Paleolithic and pre-Roman Iron Age, during which finds prove that the cave served as a burial site around 750 BC. During the Thirty Years' War, the cave served as a hiding place for counterfeiters who counterfeited the 6 Pfennig coins of the city of Werl. I let the historical place have an effect on me, taking lots of pictures and videos.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves can I explore around Warstein?
The Warstein region is known for its diverse cave systems, including impressive dripstone caves like the Bilstein Cave, which features stalactite formations and an active subterranean river. You'll also find archaeological caves such as the Hohler Stein Cave, which served as a hunting quarters for Stone Age hunters and a burial site. Additionally, there are deep cave systems like the Veleda Cave, one of the deepest in North Rhine-Westphalia.
What makes the Bilstein Cave a must-visit attraction?
The Bilstein Cave is renowned for its stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, as well as its unique subterranean river, the Bilsteinbach, which continues to carve new passages. It's also part of the larger Bilsteintal experience, which includes a freely accessible wildlife park with native animals like lynxes and wild boars, making it a great combined natural and wildlife attraction.
Are there any caves with historical or archaeological significance in Warstein?
Yes, the Hohler Stein Cave is particularly significant. Archaeological excavations have unearthed artifacts from the late Paleolithic and pre-Roman Iron Age, indicating its use as a hunting quarters and later as a burial site. The Bilstein Cave also holds archaeological value, with finds from the Stone Age, including a copper dagger and evidence of cult practices from the Urnfield and Iron Ages.
How long do guided tours typically last in the Warstein caves?
Guided tours through the Bilstein Cave, for example, typically last approximately 40 minutes. These tours provide insights into the cave's formations and rich history.
What should I wear when visiting caves in Warstein?
Caves maintain a consistently cool temperature year-round, regardless of the outside weather. It's advisable to wear warm clothing, even in summer, and comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip, as paths can be uneven or damp.
Are the caves around Warstein family-friendly?
Many caves, especially show caves like the Bilstein Cave, are considered family-friendly. The Bilstein Cave is easy to walk through, and its proximity to the Bilsteintal Wildlife Park, forest playground, and picnic spots makes it an ideal destination for families.
Is there parking available at the main cave attractions?
Yes, for popular attractions like the Bilstein Cave and the Bilsteintal Wildlife Park, parking facilities are available nearby to accommodate visitors.
Are dogs allowed inside the caves near Warstein?
Generally, dogs are not permitted inside show caves like the Bilstein Cave due to the sensitive environment and for the comfort and safety of all visitors. However, the surrounding natural areas and the Bilsteintal Wildlife Park often allow dogs on leashes.
What outdoor activities can I do near the Warstein caves?
The area around Warstein offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find excellent hiking trails, including routes like the 'View of the Lörmecke Tower' or the 'Lottmannshardbach loop'. There are also many cycling routes, such as the 'Möhne River Trail', and running trails to explore the scenic Arnsberg Forest Nature Park.
What geological features are prominent in the Warstein caves?
The caves in Warstein are primarily characterized by their limestone geology, which has led to the formation of impressive dripstone features like stalactites and stalagmites. A notable feature in the Bilstein Cave is its active subterranean river, the Bilsteinbach, which plays a crucial role in the ongoing geological processes and cave formation.
What do visitors enjoy most about the caves around Warstein?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive natural beauty of the stalactite formations and the cool, refreshing atmosphere inside the caves during summer. The combination of geological wonders with the adjacent wildlife park at Bilsteintal is also highly appreciated, offering a diverse experience for all ages.
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