Kaltbrunnen Valley
Intro
It looks like fairies and ancient creatures are hiding in the Kaltbrunnen Valley. You can find smoky caves, creeks that suddenly vanish into thin air, continuing their path in the underground cave system until they reappear, seemingly out of nowhere. The rugged valley is a place you want to explore.
The Kaltbrunnen Valley is an enchanting place, not just because of the dense, rugged forest, so dreamy and magical that it wouldn’t be surprising if fairies and ancient creatures emerged from behind the moss-covered rocks. Even if they don’t, the Kaltbrunnen Valley is secretive enough. Early history relics have been found in the caves, and during World War I border troops were stationed on the banks of the Birs, guarding the strategically important railway bridge near Chessiloch. They immortalized themselves by painting coats of arms and other emblems on the rocks.
Stone-age hunter-gatherers have spent time here over the millennia. Three prehistoric populated caves were found in the narrow, shady valley. The caves provided protection from wild animals and storms. Hunting was probably particularly useful at these strategically important places and the caves proved to be very attractive temporary housing.
Along an educational trail, the local cave explorer group is offering information about the area, which is of geologic interest. For example, the guides talk about 48 different animal species living in the caves and the peculiarities of the underground landscape or details about the field of speleology.
Travel: By car or public transportation to Grellingen, then continue on foot.
