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Eastern Switzerland
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Sarganserland

Sargans

Top 6 Caves around Sargans

Best caves around Sargans are found in a region characterized by its geological formations and historical industrial activity. The area features both natural cave formations and man-made underground structures. Sargans is known for its connection to the Gonzen Mine, a significant historical site. The landscape around Sargans offers diverse underground experiences.

Best caves around Sargans

  • The most popular caves is Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans, a historical site that operated as an iron ore mine until 1966. Visitors can…

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans

Highlight • Historical Site

Der Erzabbau ist ab 200 v. Chr. nachgewiesen. 1315 wurden Schmelzanlagen in Flums, Mels und Plons (heute Gemeinde Mels) urkundlich erwähnt, 1396 das Bergwerk selbst. Diese Urkunde berichtet, dass Graf …

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Mariengrotte Buchholz (Wangs)

Highlight • Religious Site

Grotto in Buchholz, Wangs
The Wangs Mariengrotto was created on the initiative of Pastor Künzle in 1912/1913, and the bell tower was added in 1916. A cross is located on …

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Tüfels Chuchi

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Tüfels Chuchi, Wangs
Interesting cave at an uplifting power spot
The Tüfels Chuchi is a geologically interesting miniature cave. Covered in moss, dripping and dispensing water, the rock opens up. …

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Lourdes Grotto Berschis

Highlight • Religious Site

Lourdes Grotto, Berschis from 1921
Out of the gratitude of the population that Berschis had been spared from foot-and-mouth disease and at the suggestion of Abbot Joseph Mariétan of St. …

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Lourdes Grottoes, Mels

Highlight • Religious Site

The three Mary/Lourdes Grottos in Mels
The first Mary Grotto from 1937
It was built as a place of prayer on the Castels-Böüdeli (Castels-Boden) by Josef Good, Mels.
However, the …

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Via Alpina – The 15 stages of the Green Route

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Via Alpina – The 15 stages of the Green Route

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Tamara (unterwegs)

Tips from the Community

Jean-Claude
June 14, 2025, Eisenbergwerk Gonzen in Sargans

interesting and fresh

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Guided tours are only available on certain dates or with pre-registered groups (see website). However, the restaurant and museum are always open; the restaurant in the mine is beautifully designed, with an outdoor terrace in front of the entrance.

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Stations of the Cross to the Grotto, Wangs The grotto and the Stations of the Cross in Wangs are located on a section of the Pfarrer Künzle Weg in the Buchholz area. Starting from the parish church, the path leads left along Dorfstrasse uphill to the fountain with a beautiful wayside cross. Follow the green signposts of Pfarrer Künzle Weg on Fontanixstrasse. To the left, the path leads over the bridge over the "Chlibach," where the first station of the Stations of the Cross is located. Continue along the forest path to the wooden bridge, which must be crossed. The Stations of the Cross continue along the paved Buchholzstrasse to the fountain with the final station. Text / Source: Roman Catholic Pastoral Unit of Central Sarganserland https://www.kath-msl.ch/kirchgemeinde-wangs/kirchen-gebaeude-wangs/#:~:text=The parish church of St. Anthony was built in the, organ, votive candles, open during the day, bell ringing, site plan

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Grotto in Buchholz, Wangs The Wangs Mariengrotto was created on the initiative of Pastor Künzle in 1912/1913, and the bell tower was added in 1916. A cross is located on the vaulted hill in front of the tower. A Pietà (Mother of God with suffering Jesus) in the Nazarene style was placed in the grotto. Text / Source: Roman Catholic Pastoral Unit of Central Sarganserland https://www.kath-msl.ch/kirchgemeinde-wangs/kirchen-gebaeude-wangs/#:~:text=The parish church of St. Anthony was built in the, organ, votive candles, open during the day, bell ringing, site plan

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Paul
March 29, 2025, Tüfels Chuchi

Tüfels Chuchi, Wangs Interesting cave at an uplifting power spot The Tüfels Chuchi is a geologically interesting miniature cave. Covered in moss, dripping and dispensing water, the rock opens up. Energetically speaking, the Tüfels Chuchi is a good, uplifting power spot. The name is quite intriguing, as it demonizes a healthy, strongly vibrating place, which suggests that the place was known and used very early on. Had it been more important, a forest chapel would probably greet us at this location. Important Celtic and pre-Celtic sites have often been Christianized, while less important ones have been demonized. Text / Source: Heidiland Tourismus AG, Graubünden Holidays, Alexanderstrasse 24, Chur https://www.graubuenden.ch/de/ausflugsziele/tuefels-chuchi

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Nice entertainment, with some seats

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Lourdes Grotto, Berschis from 1921 Out of the gratitude of the population that Berschis had been spared from foot-and-mouth disease and at the suggestion of Abbot Joseph Mariétan of St. Maurice, the Lourdes Grotto in the Holy Grove was built in 1921, largely through forced labor. On the Assumption of Mary in 1921, it was ceremoniously consecrated by the Bishop of Bethlehem in front of numerous believers who had traveled from all over Sarganserland. The white Madonna, which stands above the altar, was a gift from herbalist Johann Künzle. An artfully forged grille secures the sanctuary. The well-maintained grotto, located a little off the road, invites you to pray silently. Consecration: August 15, 1921 Text / Source: Walensee pastoral unit https://www.sesowa.ch/berschis-tscherlach/kirchen-kapellen/

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Restaurant Bergwerk, Gonzen / Sargans The Bergwerk restaurant is unique in design and very attractive for individual guests as well as for banquets, family celebrations or business events. A visit after a tour or guided tour of the visitor mine is also worthwhile. The location can be adapted to the size of your event thanks to the stage that can be moved on rails. Performances such as concerts or lectures are possible on the stage. The museum in the back of the restaurant cavern gives you and your guests an insight into ore mining in the Gonzen. Text / source: Pro Gonzenbergwerk Rheinstrasse 22, 7320 Sargans https://www.bergwerk-gonzen.ch/restaurant-bergwerk

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most significant historical underground site near Sargans?

The most significant historical underground site is the Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans. This former iron ore mine operated until 1966 and now offers adventurous tours through its tunnels, providing insight into the region's industrial past.

Are there any natural cave-like formations to explore near Sargans?

While traditional caves are limited, the Tüfels Chuchi near Wangs is a geologically interesting miniature cave. Additionally, the Tamina Gorge, a short distance from Sargans, offers a dramatic natural experience with its deep rock crevices, providing a cavernous and immersive feel.

What kind of religious grottoes can be found in the Sargans region?

The region features several religious grottoes. You can visit the Lourdes Grottoes in Mels, which are three grottoes established as places of prayer. Another is the Mariengrotte Buchholz (Wangs), featuring a grotto with a Pietà and part of a path with Stations of the Cross. The Lourdes Grotto Berschis, built in 1921, is also a notable site.

Are there family-friendly underground activities around Sargans?

Yes, several options are suitable for families. The Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans offers an exciting 'Tunnel Express' ride and an engaging tour. The Tüfels Chuchi is also considered family-friendly, as are the Lourdes Grottoes, Mels and the Lourdes Grotto Berschis.

How long does a tour of the Gonzen Iron Mine typically take?

Visitors to the Gonzen Iron Mine are equipped with helmets and miner's lamps for an adventurous tour. While specific durations can vary, the experience of exploring the historical workings and riding the 'Tunnel Express' typically lasts a few hours, offering a comprehensive look into the mine's past.

What outdoor activities can I do near the caves and grottoes of Sargans?

The region around Sargans offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous Mountain Hikes, including challenging routes like the Gonzenleiterweg. There are also extensive Road Cycling Routes and MTB Trails to explore the scenic landscape.

Are any of the grottoes or cave-like sites dog-friendly?

Yes, the Lourdes Grottoes, Mels are noted as dog-friendly, making them a good option if you're visiting with your canine companion.

What makes the Tamina Gorge a unique natural attraction near Sargans?

The Tamina Gorge, while not a traditional cave, is a unique natural wonder carved by the Tamina River. It's approximately 750 meters long and 70 meters deep, renowned for Europe's most abundant thermal spring, which emerges at 36.5°C. It offers a spectacular natural experience with impressive rock formations and is the source of healing spring water.

Can I find food or refreshments near the Gonzen Iron Mine?

Yes, the Gonzen Iron Mine complex includes the Bergwerk restaurant, which is unique in design and suitable for individual guests or events. It's an ideal spot for refreshments after a mine tour.

What is the geological significance of the Tüfels Chuchi?

The Tüfels Chuchi near Wangs is described as a geologically interesting miniature cave. It's also considered an 'uplifting power spot,' suggesting a unique energetic quality that has been recognized for a long time.

What do visitors appreciate most about the underground sites in Sargans?

Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the historical adventure of the Gonzen Iron Mine to the spiritual tranquility of the various Lourdes and Mariengrottoes. The unique natural formations like the Tüfels Chuchi also draw interest for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Sargans:

QuintenWalenstadtFlumsQuartenMelsPfäfersVilters-WangsBad Ragaz

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