Top 7 Caves around Oberirsen
Caves around Oberirsen are primarily found within the broader Westerwald region, as the municipality itself does not feature notable natural caves. This area is characterized by picturesque landscapes and hiking trails, offering panoramic views and unique geological formations like the "Blauer Stein" basalt crater. The region provides various underground attractions, including natural caves and former mining tunnels. Visitors interested in subterranean exploration will find options within a short distance of Oberirsen.
Best caves around Oberirsen
- The most popular caves is…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Lourdes Grotto
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
New Deep Tunnel of the Consolidierte Sonnenberg Mine
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Erbach Trail and Pawnee Bat Tunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
The Gold Hole and the Boller-Mosch
Highlight • Cave
around the year 1750 were up to mischief.
Allegedly a ghost who hits trees with a club and screams mosch, …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Pauline Mine Tunnel Entrance
Highlight • Historical Site
The mine was in operation from 1871 - 1809.
Today the tunnel serves as a home for local bats …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves around Oberirsen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Here is the mouth of the former ore mine tunnel "Pauline". The mine was in operation from 1871 - 1809. Today the tunnel serves as a home for local bats and is a reminder of times gone by - well done!
0
0
This grotto is located near the monastery.
3
0
"The Lourdes Grotto in Marienthal is a religious site located behind the pilgrimage church. It is open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This grotto is a replica of the famous Lourdes Grotto in France, known as the site of Marian apparitions. In Marienthal, the grotto serves as a place of devotion, prayer and pilgrimage for believers from the region and beyond. Visitors come here to find solace, meditate and explore their spiritual needs. The atmosphere is often one of silence and devotion, while visitors have the opportunity to light candles and say prayers. The Lourdes Grotto of Marienthal is not only a place of faith, but also a place of rest and retreat for people of all backgrounds seeking spiritual fulfillment. " https://www.wallfahrtskirche-marienthal.de/ueber-uns/
2
0
The Mother of God depicted and venerated here is the one from Lourdes. This well-known Marian pilgrimage site is located in the French Pyrenees and is visited by many people every year, including many sick people who hope for healing. The devotional image of the Mother of God has become widespread - not only in France - and Lourdes chapels and grottos have been built by believers everywhere. The church memorial day "Our Lady of Lourdes" is on February 11th, this is the anniversary of the Marian apparition (1858), when the Mother of God appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in a rock grotto very close to Lourdes. Bernadette later became a nun and died at the age of just 35. On December 8th (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary) 1933, she was canonized by Pope Pius XI. The commemoration of the Madonna of Lourdes is also World Day of the Sick.
12
0
This grotto is located near the monastery. The Way of the Cross is also really beautiful.
3
0
Beautiful and especially great for families!
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of underground attractions can I explore near Oberirsen?
The broader Westerwald region, where Oberirsen is located, offers a variety of underground attractions. These include natural caves, former mining tunnels, and grottoes. You can find historical mining operations, natural formations, and even bat habitats.
Are there any historical mining sites to visit near Oberirsen?
Yes, the region has a rich mining history. You can visit the New Deep Tunnel of the Consolidierte Sonnenberg Mine, which was formerly used for ore extraction and now serves as a bat wintering habitat. Another historical site is the Pauline Mine Tunnel Entrance, which operated from 1871 to 1809 and also provides a home for local bats. The Assberg Slate Mine in the broader Westerwald region also offers tours into former slate mining tunnels.
Are there any family-friendly caves or trails with cave features near Oberirsen?
Yes, the Erbach Trail and Pawnee Bat Tunnel is known for its natural beauty and is suitable for families, featuring a bat gallery. The Lourdes Grotto is also listed as family-friendly.
What is the 'Gold Hole' and 'Boller-Mosch' near Oberirsen?
The The Gold Hole and the Boller-Mosch is a cave and natural monument in the Mehrbachtal. It's associated with local legends from around 1750, featuring a tunnel and a story about a miner.
What is the Herbstlabyrinth and where is it located?
The Herbstlabyrinth (Autumn Labyrinth) is Hesse's largest cave system, located in Breitscheid, within the tri-border area of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. It's known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites and offers a guided tour experience.
Are there any religious or grotto sites near Oberirsen?
Yes, you can visit the Lourdes Grotto near Oberirsen. This grotto depicts and venerates the Mother of God from Lourdes, a well-known Marian pilgrimage site.
What kind of wildlife can be found in the caves around Oberirsen?
Several former mining tunnels and natural caves in the region, such as the New Deep Tunnel of the Consolidierte Sonnenberg Mine and the Pauline Mine Tunnel Entrance, serve as important wintering habitats for bats.
What other geological features can I find in the Oberirsen area?
Beyond caves, Oberirsen is known for its picturesque landscapes and unique geological formations such as the 'Blauer Stein' basalt crater. The region also features basalt quarries, like the Langenaubach Basalt Quarry Tunnel, which provides insight into the area's basalt mining history.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves near Oberirsen?
The Oberirsen area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy hikes like the 'View of Oberbergisches Land – Blue Stone Basalt Rocks loop' or the 'Panoramic View from Bickenberg – Oberirsen Village Pond loop'. There are also options for road cycling and gravel biking routes in the wider region.
Are there any specific trails that incorporate cave features?
Yes, the Erbach Trail and Pawnee Bat Tunnel is a trail that specifically features a bat gallery, offering a unique combination of hiking and subterranean exploration.
What is the best time to visit the caves and underground sites near Oberirsen?
While specific opening times for all sites vary, many natural caves and former mining tunnels that serve as bat habitats may have restricted access during winter months to protect the animals. For show caves like the Herbstlabyrinth, it's best to check their official websites for current operating hours, which often include seasonal variations.
Do I need permits to explore caves in the Oberirsen area?
For publicly accessible sites like show caves or marked historical tunnels, permits are generally not required beyond standard entrance fees. However, for more extensive or undeveloped cave exploration, especially in protected areas or bat habitats, specific permits or guided tours might be necessary. Always check local regulations or contact the relevant authorities for less-known sites.
Most popular attractions around Oberirsen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Oberirsen:
