St. Beatus Caves
Explore a magical underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls, with a stunning cascade outside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls at peak strength
St. Beatus Caves
Best Time
Waterfalls at peak strength
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a magical underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls, with a stunning cascade outside.
"A real-life fairy tale waiting for you to explore, with stunning views inside and out."
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's always chilly inside the caves, even on hot days. A sweater or light jacket is a must!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Aim for a 10 AM arrival or consider the bus to avoid hassle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Caverns
Inside the cave system
Explore a mile of illuminated pathways through vast chambers adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Cascading Waterfall
Outside the cave entrance
A breathtaking waterfall plunges down the mountainside, creating a magical atmosphere and a picturesque backdrop.
Lake Thun Panorama
Viewpoints near the caves
Enjoy sweeping views of the shimmering Lake Thun and the surrounding Swiss Alps from various vantage points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Chill
Timing is Key for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's always chilly inside the caves, even on hot days. A sweater or light jacket is a must!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Aim for a 10 AM arrival or consider the bus to avoid hassle.
🚶♀️ Prepare for the Climb
There's a 1 km uphill walk to the cave entrance from the parking area.
✨ Fairy Tale Vibes
The area feels like a real-life fairy tale, especially with the waterfall and lake views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's always chilly inside the caves, even on hot days. A sweater or light jacket is a must!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Aim for a 10 AM arrival or consider the bus to avoid hassle.
🚶♀️ Prepare for the Climb
There's a 1 km uphill walk to the cave entrance from the parking area.
✨ Fairy Tale Vibes
The area feels like a real-life fairy tale, especially with the waterfall and lake views.
💧 Waterfalls are a Gem
The underground streams and waterfalls are a highlight, especially in spring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the St. Beatus Caves for their impressive natural formations and the magical atmosphere created by the underground streams and the exterior waterfall. Many highlight the unique experience of exploring a well-maintained cave system. Some note that the walk to the entrance can be steep and that parking is limited, suggesting early arrival or alternative transport.
"Very nice cave, about 2 km long. Great place for visit.
My tips:
1) Because there is cold inside, better to bring a jacket, no matter how hot it is outside.
2) The best way to arrive at 10:00 by car or by bus, because there are very few parking spots available and less people will be inside.
3) Leave your bag and huge things in the car, because before entering to the cave there are a 1 km upstairs."
Anatolii Pokanevych
"Very nice caves, about 1km long after the entrance. It's always cold inside, so remember to bring a jacket, no matter how hot it is outside. The best way to arrive is by bus, because there are very few parking spots available and it's a much longer way up from the boat. But well worth the visit."
Ana Cardoso Cachopo
"I’ve been to quite a few cave systems throughout Thailand, Laos, and even Fiji and this was definitely the best I’ve ever been to! It was only a short 1 mile walk from the bottom of the hill throughout the entire caves and then back down the hill. The caves system is very impressive, but the waterfals are obviously what makes this a must visit in my opinion. I went on a rainy day and the temperature inside was perfect, I didn’t even need to wear my coat."
Teakre Vest
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach St. Beatus Caves from Interlaken by car, bus (stop name: Sundlauenen), or even by hiking a scenic 2.5-hour trail. Boat access is also an option, though parking might be more challenging from the boat landing.
Yes, there is car parking available, costing CHF 7.00 per car for unlimited time. However, parking spots are limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! The bus is a convenient way to reach the caves, and the stop is named Sundlauenen. This can be a good alternative to driving due to limited parking.
From the parking area, there is a 1 km uphill walk to the cave entrance. It's a scenic route, but be prepared for the climb.
Yes, you can arrive by boat to Lake Thun, which is near the caves. However, some visitors suggest that the walk up from the boat landing might be longer than from other access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the St. Beatus Caves is 19 CHF per person. You can pay at the museum or ticketing area, or potentially through an app.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official St. Beatus Caves website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and ensure entry. Check their website for online booking options.
Information on discounts for specific groups (e.g., children, seniors, students) is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking for any available offers.
Yes, parking is available for CHF 7.00 per car for unlimited time. Payment can be made via an app, at the museum, or at the ticketing office.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a 1 km path winding through a series of caverns and chambers, featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams and waterfalls.
Yes, the caves maintain a cool, constant temperature year-round, so it's recommended to wear a jacket or sweater, regardless of the outside weather.
The walk through the caves is about 1 mile (1.6 km) long, and the entire experience, including the walk up and down, can take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
The pathways inside the caves are well-lit and marked, allowing for self-guided exploration. Information panels provide details about the geology and legends.
Legend has it that the caves were once the refuge of a dragon or a giant, which St. Beatus is said to have defeated. This adds a mythical element to the cave exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the St. Beatus Caves, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or guidelines posted at the entrance.
The cascading waterfall outside the caves, the dramatic rock formations within, and the panoramic views of Lake Thun offer fantastic photo opportunities.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's common practice in cave systems to avoid flash photography to protect the delicate formations and for the comfort of other visitors.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the cave interiors. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the caverns, and a tripod might be useful if allowed and conditions permit.
Yes, the waterfall outside the caves is a popular spot for photography. Be mindful of the mist, which can affect your equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short, manageable walk to the entrance and the impressive waterfall outside provide engaging distractions. Remember to bring jackets for everyone, as the cool cave air can be a surprise for little ones. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options inside the cave are limited. The museum at the entrance can also offer educational insights for curious minds. The overall experience is a memorable blend of natural wonder and mythical storytelling, perfect for a family outing near Interlaken.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Even the walk from the parking area to the entrance is a scenic prelude to the main attraction, with beautiful views of Lake Thun. Once inside, the natural formations and underground streams provide a unique geological experience. The surrounding area, with its waterfall and lake vistas, is a paradise for nature lovers. The combination of physical activity and natural beauty makes this a highly recommended stop for anyone exploring the Bernese Oberland.
📸 Photographers
The real photographic magic often lies outside. The cascading waterfall is a prime subject, especially in spring when its flow is strongest. The panoramic views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains offer breathtaking backdrops. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the fairy-tale atmosphere that many visitors describe.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Legends of St. Beatus Caves
Adding to the allure of the caves is the local legend of St. Beatus himself. According to folklore, the caves were once inhabited by a fearsome dragon or giant. St. Beatus, a missionary, is said to have bravely confronted and defeated this creature, making the caves his sanctuary. This legend imbues the natural beauty with a sense of history and myth, making the exploration even more captivating.
Beyond the caves, the surrounding area offers stunning natural beauty. The cascading waterfall just outside the entrance is a significant draw, especially in spring when melting snow enhances its flow. The panoramic views of Lake Thun and the surrounding mountains provide a breathtaking contrast to the subterranean world, making the entire visit a multi-faceted experience.
+1Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Be prepared for a 1 km uphill walk from the parking area to the cave entrance. While scenic, it requires a moderate level of fitness. For those who prefer not to drive or worry about parking, taking the bus to the Sundlauenen stop is a viable and recommended alternative.
Crucially, remember to bring a jacket or sweater. The caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature year-round, making a light layer essential for comfort, even on the hottest summer days.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit