Höllgrotten

Höllgrotten is a network of linked dripstone caves in the Lorzentobel gorge in the canton of Zug, central Switzerland. They sit on the border of the municipalities of Menzingen and Neuheim, near Edlibach, while the entrance address (Lorzendamm 28) is listed under Baar. You tour them on your own along a marked route.

What are the Höllgrotten?

The caves formed after the last ice age. Lime-rich spring water deposited layer after layer of tufa, building stalactites and other flowstone shapes, some several metres long. The grottos lie south of a widening of the gorge known as the "Höll", which gave them their name.

How were the caves found?

Tufa was quarried here from the first half of the 19th century. Quarrying exposed the first grotto in 1862, and it opened to visitors in 1885–1887. Five more caves turned up in 1892 and 1902; they were joined together and opened as well. A family foundation has run the site since 1942, and since 2012 a new route leads to the upper grotto.

What will you see inside?

The route runs downhill through a series of chambers with dripstone, pools and damp, dark passages. The circuit takes about 45 minutes. It is cold and wet inside, so bring warm clothing and waterproof shoes.

How do you get there?

Drive or cycle from Baar. The last stretch of roughly 3 km through the forest follows Baarburgstrasse, which is closed to general traffic. On foot, it is about a 25-minute walk from the Lorzentobelbrücke stop on the Zug–Menzingen bus line, a good starting point for a walk through the woods and gorge.

When should you visit?

The season runs from 1 April to 31 October, with daily opening in all weather. Published opening hours differ between sources, so check hoellgrotten.ch before you set out. The temperature underground does not follow the seasons, which makes the caves a sound choice for a rainy day.

Who is it for?

Families with children and nature lovers. Dogs on a lead are allowed, and a restaurant with a garden terrace stands nearby. A storyteller runs regular programmes for children and for adults and teenagers from 16; booking is required.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit take?

The self-guided circuit takes about 45 minutes.

Are the Höllgrotten in Baar or Menzingen?

The entrance address is Baar, but the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland places the caves on the border of Menzingen and Neuheim, close to Edlibach.

What should I bring?

Waterproof shoes and warm clothes, because the caves are cold and damp.

Is this the same as the Hölloch in Muotathal?

No. The Hölloch in Muotathal is a separate, vast cave system in the canton of Schwyz. The Höllgrotten are smaller dripstone caves in the canton of Zug.