Täuferhöhle

Täuferhöhle, the Anabaptist Cave, sits in the woods near Bäretswil in the canton of Zurich. Persecuted Anabaptists once hid here. Today it is a quiet, free stop on a short walk through the Zürcher Oberland.

What is the Täuferhöhle?

It is a small erosion cave in conglomerate rock, about 30 metres long. A huge portal opens onto a single cavern with bare walls. One hiking description puts the rocky bowl in front at roughly 40 metres across. Daylight reaches the main chamber well. A smaller, dark cave nearby needs a torch. The site lies at about 47.317 N, 8.886 E.

Why is it called the Anabaptist Cave?

The Zurich Anabaptists broke away from Zwingli's church in 1524, mainly over adult baptism. According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, the movement had a strong following in Bäretswil from 1525. When the authorities began to pursue them, the cave served as a refuge in the 16th and 17th centuries. Tools, pottery shards and combs have been found inside, and people probably used the cave as early as the Stone Age.

How do you get there?

A forest path leads to the cave, and the final stretch is a steep descent on steps. In 2007 an iron walkway replaced the old wooden one. The walk is short but the ground is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. Driving can be awkward. The route runs through Ringwil, and many farms along the way have poor signage, so download an offline map first. A circular hike is often easier. The railway operator SOB describes a loop from Gibswil via Wissengubel to the cave.

What is there on site?

• free entry with no opening hours,
• a fire pit for barbecues,
• information boards on the area's history, mentioned by visitors,
• benches and a small stream in the rock bowl.

The cave suits a picnic and is also used for open-air services.

When should you visit?

Dry weather from late spring to autumn is best, when the steps and path are not slippery. The gorge stays damp after rain, and the descent can ice over in winter.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No. The cave is open at all times at no charge.

Do I need a torch? Not for the main cavern, which gets good light. Bring one only for the small dark cave next to it.

Can I light a fire? There is a fire pit for barbecues. Bring your own wood and leave the place clean.

Who hid in the cave? Anabaptists, members of the movement that split from the Zurich Reformation in 1524. They used it in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Where should I park? The access road winds through Ringwil on small roads with few signs, so check the route before you go. Walking from Gibswil can be simpler.