볼크마르스켈러(HWN 87)

The Volkmarskeller itself is situated at an elevation of approximately 434 meters. The elevation gain for reaching it depends significantly on your starting point. For instance, hiking from Kloster Michaelstein involves a gradual ascent, while routes from Eggeröder Brunnen might include a shorter but steeper descent to the cave.

While the area offers routes for various fitness levels, the terrain around Volkmarskeller can be uneven, especially on paths leading down to the cave. Some sections might be rocky or muddy, particularly after rain. The 1.5 km descent from Eggeröder Brunnen is noted as being shorter but potentially steeper. Overall, it's considered an intermediate hike.

Beyond the cave itself, look for the foundation walls of the former St. Michael's Church directly above the cave. Inside the cave, you can find two carved consecration crosses and a niche. Nearby, along the path from Eggeröder Brunnen, there's also an old adit (drainage tunnel) from a historic iron mine, with water still flowing from it. The cave is a natural karst formation.

While the intro mentions parking, it's important to note that there isn't direct parking at the cave itself as it's only accessible by foot. Visitors typically park at nearby trailheads such as Kloster Michaelstein or Eggeröder Brunnen, and then hike to the Volkmarskeller. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

The time required depends on your chosen hiking route. A hike from Kloster Michaelstein is about 3.5 km one way, while from Eggeröder Brunnen it's a shorter 1.5 km descent. Once at the cave, exploring its main chamber and historical features might take 15-30 minutes. Allow 2-4 hours for the entire round trip, including hiking and exploration, depending on your pace and starting point.

Yes, Volkmarskeller is considered suitable for family-friendly walks. The historical intrigue and natural setting can be engaging for children. However, be mindful of the uneven terrain and the need for a torch inside the cave. Shorter routes, like the one from Eggeröder Brunnen, might be more manageable for younger children.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails in the Harz region, including those leading to Volkmarskeller. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves and near historical sites, and to clean up after them. Ensure your dog is comfortable with uneven forest paths.

While spring and autumn are popular for their pleasant hiking conditions, they can also attract more visitors. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during the weekdays outside of school holidays, or early in the morning on weekends. Winter can also offer a serene, less crowded visit, provided you are prepared for snow and ice.

Volkmarskeller is generally accessible year-round. However, winter conditions can make trails icy or snowy, especially on steeper sections. If visiting in winter, wear warm, layered clothing, waterproof hiking boots with good grip, and consider bringing trekking poles for stability. A torch is essential for the cave, regardless of the season.

Volkmarskeller is located in a secluded forest area, so there are no cafes or restaurants directly at the site. The closest options for refreshments would be at Kloster Michaelstein, which has a monastery shop and sometimes offers food, or in the town of Blankenburg (Harz), a few kilometers away, where you'll find various dining establishments.

The area around Volkmarskeller is rich with natural beauty and other Harzer Wandernadel stamp points. Kloster Michaelstein (HWN 59) is a significant historical site and a common starting point for hikes to Volkmarskeller. The surrounding Harz mountains offer numerous other viewpoints and hiking opportunities, such as the nearby Eggeröder Brunnen.