EXCURSION: TO THE ROBBERS’ DEN!

Halfway between Etterzhausen and Penk, above the Naab on the Jurasteig, there is a real robber’s cave! This cave was formed during the Jurassic period – flowing water slowly dissolved the limestone from the rock and formed the cave. It was probably already used by the Celts and served as a refuge for some. Because of the good view of the Naab, the cave was later a good starting point for raids. The cave is surprisingly large with a diameter of 24m and a height of 7m. At the end of the 18th century, the cave entrance was widened and a staircase was built into the cave. It is open to the public.

Etterzhausen robbers' den — Etterzhausen robbers’ den

We have often made a trip to this exciting place and explain here how you can get there.

Circular walk from Etterzhausen, Räuberhöhle, Penk and back to Etterzhausen (7.8 km):

We started at the train station in Etterzhausen. You can either get there by train or park there (address: Bahnhofstr.7. 93152. Nittendorf). From there, take the so-called Bahnhofsfußweg to Nürnbergerstrasse, turn right, cross the road and turn left again into Amberger Strasse. From there, turn left onto Bischof Rudolf Strasse, which leads into the forest and uphill directly onto the Jurasteig.

We follow the hiking sign with the red rectangle (W15) and the Jurasteig sign. Later, the Jurasteig forks into an upper and a lower path, the lower one being more comfortable. Always following the red rectangle, we come to the robbers’ cave. At weekends, the cave is a popular place for parents with children. It is best to take a flashlight with you to explore the cave.

For anyone interested in geology: the Jurassic period began around 201.3 million years ago and ended around 145 million years ago, meaning it lasted around 56.3 million years! You can see stalactites on the ceiling and rock cuts next to them. Pure natural history! The opening at the far end of the cave offers a good view of the Naab Valley.

Back out of the cave, follow the red rectangle towards Penk. It is about 2 km to this point. First of all, we head uphill into the Etterzhausen forest to a forest road. Following the red rectangle, we come to a forest path on which we continue on level ground. A sign points to the ramparts of the former Löweneck Castle.

Finally, turn half left onto a downhill path and finally down a dirt track to Penk. Here you can take a break at the Spitzauer inn.

Turn left back onto the Jurasteig trail at the inn, but now follow the blue rectangle (W16) for about 800 m. At the crossroads, follow the red triangle (W21) towards Etterzhausen station. From here it is another 2.5 km to the station.

Have fun discovering,
Your Annette

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