The cave serves as a hibernation site for various species of bats, including the Lesser Horseshoe bat.
It is the only public natural cave in the entire Allgäu mountain range.
The temperature inside remains constant at approximately 4 to 6 degrees Celsius year-round.
The cave system contains deep, vertical shafts that reach depths of up to 300 meters, though these are not accessible to visitors.
The rock layers inside the cave date back approximately 150 million years to the Jurassic period.
Sturmannshöhle is the only accessible natural cave in the Allgäu region of Germany, situated within the side valley of the Stillach river. The cave consists of a 460-meter long tunnel carved through limestone and marl layers, with approximately 300 meters open to the public. It formed during the Würm glaciation when meltwater carved channels through the rocky mountain interior. Visitors traverse several steep staircases to reach a depth of roughly 120 meters below the surface. The interior features geological formations including subterranean water channels and rock strata exposed by erosion. The cave is part of the Hörnerdörfer tourist region and remains a site for geological research.
The dramatic, narrow entrance portal of the cave looking outward toward the Allgäu valley.
Bring a warm jacket regardless of the outside temperature due to the constant cold air inside.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the steps can be wet and slippery.
Consider using a small headlamp or flashlight if you want to inspect geological formations closely.
Do not attempt the cave walk in flip-flops or open-toed shoes; avoid visiting if you have mobility issues regarding steep stairs.
Open seasonally from spring through autumn; typically closed during winter months due to bat hibernation protection.
Do not touch the rock walls or cave formations to protect them from skin oils; strictly forbidden to litter.
