Location:
St. Beatushöhlen-Genossenschaft, Staatsstrasse 974, 3800 Sundlauenen, Schweiz
Entry fee:
- Adult: CHF 18
- Child (6 – 16yrs included): CHF 10
- Family Pass: CHF 49
- Dogs: CHF 10
- Groups (10 to 50 people): CHF 16
- Groups(50 people+): CHF 15
Opening hours:
The St. Beatus Caves are open every day from 9.45 am to 5 pm, from 14th March till 15th November
Distance from the nearest airport:
The nearest airport to St. Beatus Caves is the Bern Airport. It’s around 40 kilometres from the Caves, a distance that can be covered in around 45 minutes
Legend of St. Beatus and the Dragon
The Caves have a history that’s as captivating as the destination. The folklore centres around St. Beatus, a Christian monk and hermit, also known as Beatus of Thun or Beatus of Beatenberg or the Apostle of Switzerland. Some sources trace his lineage to Ireland while others claim that he was a king in Scotland.
Saint Barnabas baptised him in England and St. Peter the Apostle ordained him as a priest in Rome. Afterwards, he was sent to evangelise various communities in Europe. According to legend, St. Beatus reached Lake Thun and decided to live there.
As a hermit, the isolated village of Beatenberg - now named after him - beckoned him with its rustic charm and simplicity. He decided to move into the safe and secluded Caves. It was there that he found a fire breathing dragon. St. Beatus fought the dragon, vanquished it and then lived in the Caves.
His grave can be found near the entrance of the Cave. As the country’s apostle, the Saint is worshipped everywhere in Switzerland and the story of him defeating the dragon has shaped the narrative of the might of good expelling evil. The official coat of arms of Beatenberg features St. Beatus defeating the dragon.
The Restaurant at St. Beatus Caves
If the intricately composed caves and their stunning geographical features aren’t enticing enough, how about dining at a restaurant with few parallels in the world? The highly-rated restaurant at St. Beatus Caves, located close to the parking area, offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Thun.
After exploring the underground, tourists can relax and enjoy this immaculate view of the verdant green hills enveloping the lake, with the Alps in the horizon, the kind of luxury usually reserved for high-end resorts and exclusive villas. Whether it’s a cup of hot chocolate, traditional lunch or light snacks, the restaurant offers tourists a delicious mix of hot and cold meals during the day.
For dinner, because of the rush, you will have to book your table in advance. All the food served here is made from locally sourced and sustainably produced ingredients, with the utmost commitment to environmental preservation.
Tips on visiting St. Beatus Caves
- The guided tours, accompanied by an English-speaking guide, are free of cost.
- The guided tours depart every 45 minutes. Each tour can last up to 75 minutes.
- You are permitted to film and take photographs in the Caves, but the rules do not allow tripods inside.
- As the temperature inside is between 8 and 10°C, it’s advisable to wear or carry warm clothing.
- Pets are not allowed in the caves.
- Please book in advance for dinner at the restaurant.
- If you are planning to stay overnight nearby, do keep in mind that along with hotels, there are also hostels around.
- If you want to spend a night under the Swiss stars, it’s an excellent idea to camp outdoors near the lake. There are many affordable choices around the lake.
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