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Cave · Interlaken, Berna
St. Beatus-Höhlen
Caves on the north shore of the Thunersee, with about 1 km of lit galleries, underground lakes and stalactites. Legend says the monk Beatus lived there and drove out a dragon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About St. Beatus-Höhlen
The St. Beatus-Höhlen open on the hillside above the Thunersee, in the municipality of Beatenberg. About 14 km of galleries have been explored and roughly 1 km is open to the public, with lighting, walkways and stairs.
The route, about an hour long, passes through halls with stalactites and stalagmites, shafts and small underground lakes. On the path between the road and the entrance, a waterfall descends through the woods.
Legend says a dragon lived in the caves until the arrival of Beatus, a medieval monk, who confronted it with a cross; the dragon is said to have thrown itself into the lake. Beatus is said to have set up his shelter there and lived in the cave until he died.
A cave museum near the road is included with the same ticket. The main season usually runs from late March to November, with reduced winter hours part of the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About two hours, including the climb and the museum.
Best time
Any day, including rainy days. Inside the cave the temperature remains low year-round, so bring a warm layer even in European summer.
How to get there
By boat, get off at Beatushöhlen-Sundlauenen and walk about 25 minutes uphill. By bus from Interlaken West, alight at Beatushöhlen and walk about 10 minutes through the woods.
Tip
Combine going there by boat on the Thunersee and returning by bus. Wear closed shoes: the ground/floor is often wet.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about St. Beatus-Höhlen
How much of the cave can be visited?
About 1 km, on a route of roughly one hour.
Who was Beatus?
According to tradition, a medieval monk who is said to have driven a dragon out of the caves and lived in them.
How to get to the St. Beatus-Höhlen?
By boat on the Thunersee or by bus from Interlaken West, followed by a short walk to the entrance.
Are the St. Beatus-Höhlen open in winter?
The main season usually runs from late March to November, with reduced hours in winter. Check before you go.