Birresborn Ice Caves

The ice caves were not created naturally, but rather through the mining of millstones. That is why they are also known as "millstone caves" and have been a listed building since 1938. The temperature inside the caves is constantly between -1 ° C and + 4 ° C, so that the icicles and columns of the winter months often persist into summer. The ice caves serve as winter quarters for numerous bats. According to Section 39 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act, the bat protection period begins on October 1st and ends on March 31st. During this period, bats are legally prohibited from entering caves, grottos, bunkers, tunnels and other potential hibernation dwellings. That is why the ice caves are closed in winter. If you want to go a little deeper into the caves, you should definitely bring a flashlight. It is worth it!

From October to the end of March, 4 out of 5 caves are closed so as not to disturb the hibernation of bats.

When you enter the Birresborn Ice Caves, the cold comes first. For centuries the so-called "ice caves" were used as ice storage facilities, even in hot summers the temperature does not rise above 7 degrees. Just one of many possible uses over time. The history of the caves as a mining site for coveted millstones is still recognizable today. The millstones were used nationwide to grind oak bark, which was then used as a tannin in leather processing. From quarry to refuge, the caves became a haven during World War II and other times of need. Today bats use the caves as winter quarters, so for nature conservation reasons the ice caves in Birresborn are only open from April to October.
Tip: sturdy shoes and a flashlight are recommended for visiting the caves. gerolsteiner-land.de/a-birresborner-eishoehlen-1