Exploring Austria's Underground: A Cave-Rich Country

Austria is home to a number of caves, many of which are located in the Northern Limestone Alps. These caves include ice caves, former salt caves, and the only marble cave in Austria. Some of the caves are open to the public and can be visited on guided tours.

The main concentration of Austrian caves is in the Northern Limestone Alps

The Northern Limestone Alps are a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and tourists alike. The area boasts a plethora of caves, including ice caves and former salt caves, which are now open to the public as tourist attractions.

One of the most popular caves in the region is the marble cave, which offers guided tours of around 500 metres. Visitors can explore the cave's interior, which features crystal-clear ice columns and numerous weathered fossils. The west exit of the cave provides a magnificent view of the Loferer Steinberge.

Another notable cave in the Northern Limestone Alps is the Alploch Gorge, which requires a short but crisp climb to reach. The limestone caves in this area offer a unique atmosphere and are well worth the effort.

The caves in Austria vary in size and accessibility, with some being easily accessible to visitors, while others may require a more adventurous hike or climb. The length of the cave's trail as a show cave is often indicated in guides or on websites, so visitors can plan their trip accordingly.

Many Austrian caves are located in the Salzkammergut and Totes Gebirge regions

Austria has many caves, with the main concentration found in the Northern Limestone Alps, a mountain range of the Eastern Alps. Many Austrian caves are located in the Salzkammergut and Totes Gebirge regions.

Salzkammergut is a geographical region in Austria, known for its picturesque lakes and mountains. The region is also home to numerous caves, including some of the country's most famous and popular tourist caves. These caves often feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as archaeological and paleontological remains.

The Totes Gebirge, or 'Dead Mountains', is a mountain range in the Northern Limestone Alps. It is known for its rugged and remote landscape, with numerous peaks, lakes, and, of course, caves. The caves in this region are often less accessible than those in Salzkammergut, but they offer a wilder and more adventurous experience for those willing to explore them.

Some of the most notable caves in these regions include the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave, one of the largest ice caves in the world, and the Dachstein Rieseneishöhle, another impressive ice cave system. There is also the Salzbergwerk Hallein, a former salt mine that now offers tours and an insight into the history of salt mining in the region.

Whether you're an experienced spelunker or a casual visitor, the caves of Salzkammergut and Totes Gebirge offer a wealth of exploration and discovery. With their stunning geological formations and historical significance, they provide a unique and fascinating glimpse into the underground world of Austria.

The caves are listed alphabetically and include ice caves and former salt caves

Austria has many caves, with the main concentration in the Northern Limestone Alps, a mountain range of the Eastern Alps. Many are located in the Salzkammergut and Totes Gebirge regions. The caves are listed alphabetically and include ice caves and former salt caves (Salzwelten).

The caves are a popular tourist attraction, with many offering guided tours. Some of the most popular caves include the marble cave, which offers a 500-metre guided tour, and the limestone caves in the Alploch Gorge. The show cave area is also easily accessible to visitors, with 700 metres of stairs to explore.

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Austria's caves offer a unique experience. With so many caves to choose from, there is something for everyone, from the breathtaking ice columns and fossils to the magnificent views of the Loferer Steinberge.

• Marble Cave
• Limestone Caves in the Alploch Gorge
• Show Cave
• Ice Caves
• Former Salt Caves (Salzwelten)

You can book a tour to the researcher's part of a cave with a cave guide in winter

Austria has a lot of caves, with the main concentration in the Northern Limestone Alps, a mountain range of the Eastern Alps. Many of them are located in the geographical region of Salzkammergut and in the Totes Gebirge.

You can book a tour to the researchers' part of a cave with a cave guide in winter. The temperature in the caves is usually between 4° and 6° C, so warm clothes are recommended. The tours are about one hour long and take you through 500 m of the cave. You can climb into the underworld to see ice and stalactites. The west exit offers a magnificent view of the Loferer Steinberge.

There are also other caves in Austria that you can visit, such as the ice caves and former salt caves (Salzwelten). The Kirchle cave after the Alploch Gorge is also recommended, as it is a short but crisp climb to a great atmosphere in the limestone caves.

The best Austrian caves are listed online, with photos, maps and insider tips

Austria has a large number of caves, many of which are located in the Northern Limestone Alps, a mountain range of the Eastern Alps. The geographical region of Salzkammergut and the Totes Gebirge are also home to many caves.

One of the most popular caves in Austria is the marble cave, which offers guided tours of 500 metres. The temperature in the cave is between 4° and 6° C, so visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes and warm clothes. The crystal-clear ice columns and weathered fossils create a romantic atmosphere, and the west exit offers a magnificent view of the Loferer Steinberge.

Another notable cave in Austria is the Kirchle cave, which can be reached via a short but crisp climb after the Alploch Gorge. The limestone caves in this area have a great atmosphere and are definitely worth the effort.

Frequently asked questions