Hölloch Cave (Glarus)
Glarus
Hölloch Cave is a vast karst cave system located in the Muotatal valley in the canton of Schwyz, Switzerland. It is the longest cave in Switzerland and the second-longest in Europe, with over 212 kilometers of surveyed passages. The cave features three main levels, with the lowest mostly submerged below the karst water table. Exploration began in 1875, with systematic research from 1889 onward. Early 20th-century efforts included electrification and tourist development, but these were halted after a destructive flood in 1910. Post-World War II, research resumed, leading to significant expansions in known cave length. The cave is renowned for its complex network of galleries named after their discoverers or characteristic features, such as the "Snake Passage" and "Knight's Hall." Modern explorations continue to refine the cave's mapped extent, with ongoing hydrological studies to understand water flow and flood risks. The cave's unique ecosystem also yielded discoveries like the tiny pseudoscorpion species Pseudoblothrus infernus. Today, guided tours are organized by Trekking Team AG, offering visitors a glimpse into one of Europe's most impressive subterranean landscapes.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book guided tours in advance through the organizing company, especially during peak seasons. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when access is easier and flood risks are lower. Due to the cave's complexity and water levels, tours require good physical condition and appropriate clothing. Discounts may be available for groups, children, and seniors. Note that some sections are accessible only to experienced cavers or researchers, so public tours cover the safer, developed areas.
Interesting facts
- •Hölloch is the longest cave in Switzerland and the second-longest in Europe, with over 212 km of explored passages.
- •The cave system consists of three levels, with the lowest largely submerged underwater.
- •In 2010, a new species of pseudoscorpion, Pseudoblothrus infernus, was discovered inside the cave.
- •Flooding has historically trapped explorers inside the cave for several days.
- •The cave passages are often named after their discoverers or distinctive features, such as the 'Snake Passage' and 'Knight's Hall'.
- •Multiple entrances have been discovered since 1980, improving safety and access.
History
The entrance to Hölloch was known to local inhabitants for centuries, with the first recorded exploration in 1875 by Alois Ulrich.
Systematic exploration started in 1889.
In 1905, a Belgian-Swiss company developed the cave for tourism, installing electric lighting and infrastructure, but a flood in 1910 destroyed these facilities, ending early tourist use.
After World War II, research resumed, with the first bivouac established in 1949.
In the 1990s, Trekking Team AG acquired the rights to operate tours.
The cave's mapped length grew from 172 km in the 1990s to over 200 km by 2012, making it one of Europe's longest known cave systems.
Place Guide
Entrance and Visitor Area
The main entrance is located above the hamlet of Stalden in Muotathal and serves as the starting point for guided tours. It includes visitor facilities and safety briefings.
Snake Passage (Schlangengang)
A winding narrow corridor named for its serpentine shape, offering a challenging section for explorers and a highlight for advanced visitors.
Knight's Hall (Rittersaal)
A large cavernous chamber within the cave system, notable for its impressive size and geological formations.
Research Bivouacs1949
Several bivouacs inside the cave provide shelter and supplies for researchers and experienced explorers, enabling prolonged expeditions.
