The Prinzenhöhle is a striking 18-metre-long rock crevice in the Western Ore Mountains, famous as the legendary hideout during the Altenburg Prince Kidnapping of 1455. It's a spot where history and legend blend together, offering visitors a genuine sense of medieval intrigue.

Despite its name, this is not a natural cave but a medieval mining tunnel carved into solid rock. The passage is open to explore, though unlit, so bring a torch. The hard rock means no reinforcement against collapse is needed, making it a safe and easy destination for families. The surrounding Poppenwald forest along the Zwickauer Mulde river offers a peaceful, wooded atmosphere that's especially beautiful in autumn and spring.

How to get there

• Forsthaus zur Prinzenhöhle inn, on the road between Hartenstein and Bad Schlema — easy access, short walk
• Parking at the castle ruins in Hartenstein — signposted trail, approx. 4.5 km, easy difficulty

Practical information

• The site is a former mining tunnel, not a natural cave
• No lighting inside — bring a torch
• The nearby Forsthaus zur Prinzenhöhle inn is a great spot to rest after the walk

Fun fact: an inscription was carved into the rock to commemorate the imprisonment of Prince Ernst of Saxony, though historian Jürgen Hüller questioned in 2012 whether this was truly the kidnappers' hideout.