Salzgrabenhöhle

The Salzgrabenhöhle is an extensive cave system in the limestone formations near Berchtesgaden that stretches for about 9 kilometers underground. It features multiple chambers, underground lakes, waterfalls, and narrow passages throughout its network.

The cave system was discovered in 1959 by two spelunkers, which prompted significant geological research in the region. This exploration expanded scientific understanding of underground formations in the Alpine area.

The cave system holds numerous fossil findings on its walls, including ancient ammonites and corals that document the prehistoric marine life of Bavaria.

Access requires a key from the National Park Administration, and the cave is closed between October and April for protection. This closure period safeguards the bat populations that hibernate within the passages.

Water tracing studies reveal that this cave network channels water from distant lakes directly into the Königssee through hidden passages. This underground connection system acts as a concealed water transport network deep beneath the mountains.

Location: Berchtesgaden

Elevation above the sea: 950 m

Length: 9,012 m

Width: 2 m

Opening Hours: May-September: "mit Schlüssel der Nationalparkverwaltung"

Phone: +49865296860

Website: http://umweltatlas.bayern.de/mapapps/resources/reports/geotope/generateBericht.pdf?additionallayerfieldvalue=172H005

GPS coordinates: 47.52420,12.95519

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00