Located in the Vosges Mountains, near the town of Barr, the Druids’ Cave is a fascinating geological formation that combines history, legends, and science. Nestled in the Kirneck valley, this small cavity offers a unique glimpse into the natural mysteries of the Bas-Rhin.
An intriguing name
The name of the cave immediately evokes druidic stones and their mysteries. However, unlike the megaliths associated with ancient civilizations, this natural cavity does not result from any human intervention. Its appearance, reminiscent of a dolmen, has likely influenced its toponymy.
This site is located south of the famous Mont Sainte-Odile, not far from a fortified camp marked by an imposing stone wall known as “the wall of the Pagans.” The cave opens at the southern end of this fortified enclosure, just a few meters from the structure. In the 1980s, it was still mistakenly depicted on some maps as a megalithic monument.
Fascinating geology
Carved into the Vosges sandstone dating from the Lower Triassic, the Druids’ Cave is a remarkable example of pseudokarst formation. This phenomenon results from a natural sliding of the sandstone slabs, caused by a vacuum call on the slope. Unlike dolmens or human constructions, this cavity is entirely of natural origin.
Topographed for the first time in June 1991 by Claude Chabert and Jean-Yves Bigot, the cave has a modest development of 5 meters. This small size does not diminish the interest it generates among geologists and natural history enthusiasts.
A small cavity, a great story
Although it extends only over a short distance, the Druids’ Cave is a testament to the geological and historical richness of the Vosges. Its strategic location, near Mont Sainte-Odile and its cyclopean fortifications, fuels stories about its possible role in local legends.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, curious about geology, or just an explorer of the riches of the Grand Est, this cave remains a captivating destination to add to your itinerary.
Practical information
- Location: Barr, Kirneck valley, Bas-Rhin
- Entrance altitude: 770 meters
- GPS coordinates: 48° 25′ 33″ N, 7° 24′ 06″ E
- Known length: 5 meters
A site to discover for its natural environment and the stories it continues to tell.
