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Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Sülzfeld

Top 7 Caves around Sülzfeld

Best caves around Sülzfeld are found in the broader Meiningen area, which is known for its geological features and natural attractions. The region features a variety of cave types, including fracture and cleft caves, offering subterranean exploration opportunities. Sülzfeld, a former municipality now part of Meiningen, serves as a base for accessing these natural landmarks. The landscape around Sülzfeld is characterized by forests and hills, providing a setting for outdoor activities.

Best caves around Sülzfeld

  • The most popular caves is…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Goetz Cave

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Reinhold Goetz discovered the gap and gap cave in 1915. With 50 m high gorges, it is the largest cave open to visitors in Germany.

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Limbachsweg

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The picturesque forests that nestle against the theater town of Meiningen from the west form the backdrop for this extra tour, which also offers numerous viewpoints, a castle ruin and …

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Not very suitable for big people like me, because you almost have to walk bent over, but a real wonderland for children. In really loving detail empires many brothers Grimm …

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Halsbergloch Crevice Cave

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The Halsbergloch is a cleft cave in the lower shell limestone. It should be about 8m deep.

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Armlöcher Natural Monument

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If it's on your tour, don't just walk past it, just explore the creepy hole closer :)

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Patrick
June 11, 2026, Goetz Cave

You have to see this sometime

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The armholes are worth seeing.

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The sandstone and fairytale cave is first and foremost a mine where sand was extracted. It is one of the largest caves of its kind and has 2500 columns. Mining in the cave began around the year 1800. The work was very arduous and not lucrative. Often all family members, including children, worked in the cave and yet sand people lived in poor conditions and lived to a maximum age of 40. Huge information boards hang on the cave that tell of the history of the cave, but also of individual fates. Today, visitors can enjoy the sandstone cave and explore it at their own pace. The labyrinth-like path leads up to 50 m below the surface and you do lose your bearings after a while, but the path is well marked off with walls. While in the first third you can still feel the seriousness of this work thanks to some representations and figures, in the last third the diagrams are replaced by lovingly prepared fairytale pictures. Magnificent backdrops have been created underground that you can look at at your leisure. Nevertheless, you will always come across the geological peculiarities and the work of the miners. A brilliant mix for the whole family. You mostly walk bent over, as the ceiling height is only 1.50 m. However, you can often stand upright at the various stations. A jacket is also recommended, as it is only 8 degrees in the cave. The cave visit is rounded off by a mini amusement park, which you can go through for free. The rides are paid for with coins. There are also a few animal enclosures. With homemade cakes and a large selection of food, you can also eat very cheaply and very well here! There is something to eat both directly at the cave and in the mini amusement park below. The selection there is similar. You should plan at least 2 hours for the visit, but longer with children.

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The merchant Götz actually only wanted to set up a beautiful mountain garden when he came across this cave. He and his friends investigated the discovered fissure cave and later employed miners from the Ruhr area to develop it further and to cut passages between the crevices and to secure the cracks in the rock. He did not live to see the full expansion, but his widow continued it. The cave is now open to visitors and can be explored on a 40-minute guided tour. Although the cave does not have any outstanding features such as stalactites, it is still worth seeing. The narrow and very high cracks in the rock were created by rock slides towards the Werra valley. The cave is therefore simply an impressive natural spectacle with an interestingly designed guided tour. Unfortunately, the cave has not been able to be explored in the usual way for 3 years now. A landslide in the upper area meant that the upper exit can no longer be used. Instead, you have to struggle up all the stairs and then go back down again straight away. This feels quite bumpy and pointless on the tour... If you decide to visit, you should bring a jacket with you. The temperature in the cave is a constant 8 degrees. The waiting time until the tour is perfect to while away on the terrace, where there are warm dishes and various drinks - all with a wonderful view of Meiningen.

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Great for children and adults. On a short circular route (approx. 25-30 minutes) you can take in the beautiful shapes and colors and the children can enjoy the fairy tales shown. It's always 8-10 degrees inside, so don't dress too lightly. The paths have no steps and are easy to walk on. Sometimes it's time to duck your head. Parking is free, entry family ticket (2+2) 20,- Afterwards you can spend time in the restaurant or use the paid play equipment (50 cent coins required). Money exchange machine is on site.

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It was still closed but I'll stop by again to take a closer look.

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Reinhold Goetz discovered the gap and gap cave in 1915. With 50 m high gorges, it is the largest cave open to visitors in Germany.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the caves around Sülzfeld unique?

The caves in the broader Meiningen area, near Sülzfeld, are primarily known for their unique geological formations, particularly as fracture and cleft caves. The most prominent example is the Goetz Cave, which is considered Europe's largest accessible fracture and cleft cave, formed approximately 25,000 years ago by a landslide.

What are some notable caves to visit near Sülzfeld?

Beyond the Goetz Cave, other significant sites include the Halsbergloch Crevice Cave, an 8-meter deep cleft cave, and the Armlöcher Natural Monument, which features a cave and is particularly striking when filled with water. The Sandstone and Fairy Tale Cave Walldorf also offers a unique experience.

What is the best time of year to visit the caves near Sülzfeld?

The Goetz Cave, a major attraction, is generally open seasonally from April to October. It's advisable to check specific opening times for individual caves before planning your visit, as some may have seasonal closures.

Are there family-friendly caves in the Sülzfeld area?

Yes, the Sandstone and Fairy Tale Cave Walldorf is particularly family-friendly. It features elaborately staged Brothers Grimm fairy tales within an underground labyrinth, making it a wonderland for children. While some passages may require bending for taller visitors, it's a popular choice for families.

Are guided tours available for the caves?

Yes, the Goetz Cave offers guided tours, typically lasting around 40 minutes. These tours provide insights into the cave's formation, history, and unique features, enhancing the visitor experience.

What should I wear when visiting the caves?

Inside caves like the Goetz Cave, the temperature remains a constant 8 degrees Celsius, regardless of the outside weather. It's recommended to wear warm clothing and sturdy, non-slip footwear, as the ground can be damp and slippery.

What kind of geological features can I expect to see in the caves?

The region is characterized by fracture and cleft caves. You'll encounter impressive clefts that can reach up to 50 meters in height, as seen in the Goetz Cave. The Halsbergloch Crevice Cave is another example of a cleft cave formed in shell limestone.

What outdoor activities can I do near the caves around Sülzfeld?

The area around Sülzfeld offers various outdoor activities. You can explore MTB Trails, enjoy Running Trails, or try Gravel Biking. Many routes pass through picturesque forests and offer scenic views, sometimes even incorporating cave visits or nearby landmarks.

Are there hiking trails that include cave visits or nearby landmarks?

Yes, the Limbachsweg is an extra tour that combines cultural history with geological peculiarities. This trail leads through forests, past viewpoints, and includes a detour to the Goetz Cave, offering a comprehensive outdoor experience.

What historical significance do the caves hold?

Beyond their natural beauty, some caves have historical importance. The Goetz Cave, for instance, has traces of early human and animal settlement, with discoveries of bison, bear, and wild horses. The Sandstone and Fairy Tale Cave Walldorf also tells the story of historical sand mining and the lives of the 'sandmakers'.

Are the caves around Sülzfeld suitable for beginners in caving?

Accessible show caves like the Goetz Cave are suitable for beginners, offering guided tours on well-lit paths. However, other natural clefts or less developed caves, such as the Halsbergloch Crevice Cave, might be more challenging and require greater caution or experience.

What do visitors enjoy most about the caves in the Sülzfeld region?

Visitors frequently appreciate the unique geological formations, the impressive dimensions of caves like the Goetz Cave, and the historical insights provided during tours. The family-friendly atmosphere of the Sandstone and Fairy Tale Cave Walldorf is also a highlight for many, as are the scenic views from the approaches to the cave entrances.

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

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