Hohlstein, Natural cave monument in Werra-Meißner-Kreis, Germany

The Hohlstein is a natural cave in northern Hesse marked by limestone formations and featuring a lake in its front section. The cave structure extends through several chambers shaped by water and time.

The first documented mention of Hohlstein dates from 1267, making it the earliest known cave in German records. This early reference underscores the long human connection to this place.

The cave is linked to several fairy tales and legends. In the front section lies the Höhlensee, whose water was said to heal, rejuvenate and beautify; ceremonies and flower offerings there are reported to have continued into the 19th century, held several times a year and traced to pre-Christian times. Above the portal rises the Mädelsprung rock, from which, legend says, an unfaithful girl jumped into the Nixenteich and lives on as a nix. Other sources call it the Frau-Holle-Höhle.

The cave is closed by an iron grille gate and open to the public only in the summer half of the year, after prior registration with the Bad Sooden-Allendorf city marketing office. There is no key handover; arrange the visit in advance.

Above the cave portal rises a second rock face called the Mädelsprung. Legend says an unfaithful girl jumped from it into the Nixenteich, where she lives on as a nixie who pulls unfaithful girls down. Other sources call the cave Frau-Holle-Höhle, linking it to Frau Holle.