We spent a magical afternoon exploring the St Beatus Caves, a perfect family destination nestled above Lake Thun, close to Interlaken. In about 1–2 hours, we were able to explore the amazing cave and enjoy the playground and property with stunning lake views.
History and Location
The St Beatus Caves are steeped in legend and history, located on the northeastern shore of Lake Thun. According to local lore, the caves were once home to a fearsome dragon until the Irish monk Beatus arrived and drove it away nearly 1,900 years ago. Archaeological finds show the caves have been used as shelter since the Hallstatt period (750–450 BC), making this not just a natural wonder but a place of deep historical significance.
Exploring the Caves
Inside, the caves stretch for a kilometer, with well-lit paths and helpful signage in both German and English. The route winds past dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, sparkling pools, and even underground waterfalls. Some passages get quite narrow and low, so strollers and hiking backpacks aren’t practical. The path is out-and-back, so you’ll pass other visitors along the way, but the adventure is worth it for the variety of rock formations and the sense of discovery. My son loves rocks and archaeology, so this was a fantastic experience for him.
Dining Options
After our cave tour, we grabbed a quick bite at Snacks St. Beatus, the casual food stand. With shaded outdoor seating overlooking Lake Thun, it was a relaxing spot for families. The menu included burgers, chicken nuggets, and salads, and there were baby chairs available for little ones. For those wanting a sit-down meal, Restaurant Stein & Sein is also on site.
Tickets, Arrival, and Facilities
Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, and kids under 5 enter free. Parking is limited along the road, so arriving early or using public transit is recommended. The walk from the road up to the caves is steep but scenic, with waterfalls and lake views along the way. Don’t miss the large playground near the entrance—our kids loved the dragon-themed equipment. We also made a quick stop at the gift shop, which had unique crystals and ammonite fossils that fascinated our son.
St Beatus Caves was a highlight of our trip—an ideal outing for cloudy days when mountaintop views are hidden. With its blend of legend, geology, and family-friendly amenities, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the Lake Thun region.