Unicorn cave in the Harz: legends and adventures for the whole family!

Unicorn cave in the Harz: legends and adventures for the whole family!

The Unicorn Cave in the southwestern Harz near Scharzfeld has been attracting visitors for centuries to investigate the fascinating legend of the unicorn. This mysterious site, once known for its magical bone finds, is now considered one of the largest visitor caves in the Western Harz. Over a total length of around 700 meters, those interested can explore historical halls and corridors that bear witness to a long history.

The name “Unicorn Cave” comes from bone finds from the Middle Ages that were incorrectly attributed to the mythical unicorn. These bones, which were considered medicinally valuable, were even sold in pharmacies. Famous personalities such as Julius Caesar, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe have already searched the cave for these mystical remains. However, recent research has shown that the finds are mostly the remains of extinct animals such as cave bears and lions, rather than the remains of a mythical creature. These discoveries come, among other things, from excavations carried out more than 100,000 years ago by Neanderthals who lived and hunted in the cave.

Geological features

Located in a nature reserve, the Unicorn Cave extends over a plateau about 150 meters above the bottom of the Oder Valley. The natural cavity in the Zechstein Dolomite, which was formed approximately 270 million years ago, was transformed by weathering into an impressive cave system. The cave has a main section of almost 300 meters, which is regularly open for guided tours. These unique features make the Unicorn Cave an adventurous destination for nature lovers and history fans alike.

Visitors can only enter the cave as part of a guided tour, which lasts approximately 45 minutes. Tours start every hour on the hour and cost 10 euros for adults and 6 euros for children under 16. Entry is even free for the youngest guests under 6 years of age. The forest café Haus Einhorn at the entrance to the cave also invites you to relax after the adventure with a warm meal or a view of the picturesque surroundings.

Visitor Information

The Unicorn Cave is open from Wednesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Access is via an artificial tunnel, and there is a free forest parking lot available for visitors about 250 meters in front of the entrance.

If you are looking for an exciting destination, then the trip from Hanover to the Unicorn Cave is worth the trip. In just about two hours you will reach this fascinating place that tells not only the history of humanity, but also the secrets of nature. From the Scharzfeld train station it is only twenty minutes along a signposted hiking trail to the cave.

Unicorn Cave is an essential attraction for anyone who wants to experience the magic of history while enjoying the exciting adventure of caving. Visit this local attraction and discover for yourself the wonders hidden in the depths of the Harz Mountains.

Further information about the visit can be found on the websites of Einhornhöhle, Geopark and t-online.de.