Lyla Lindsey
Austria is home to some of the world's most impressive ice caves, including the largest one in the world, the Werfen Ice Cave (Eisriesenwelt). This natural wonder, discovered in 1879, extends for more than 25 miles through the Tennen Mountains in the Austrian Alps. Visitors can embark on a half-day or full-day excursion to this subterranean world of ice, which includes a cable car ride, a hike, and a tour of the ice cave itself. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended to avoid waiting in lines, or at the ticket office on-site. The price of the ticket typically includes the cable car ride and a guide. It's important to note that the journey to the ice cave can be strenuous, involving steep climbs and varying temperatures, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ice cave location | Werfen, Austrian Alps |
| Ice cave name | Eisriesenwelt |
| Ticket price | €24 per person (includes cable ride and guide) |
| Ticket purchase method | Online or at the ticket building |
| Tour duration | 6 hours |
| Tour type | Private tour with a guide |
| Tour inclusions | Visit to the ice cave and Golling Waterfall; cable car ride; transport and hotel pickup and drop-off |
| Tour language | English and German |
| Clothing recommendations | Sturdy shoes, hats, gloves, and warm outer clothing |
| Tour timings | 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (May 1–October 31); closed in winter |
| Tour difficulty | Not recommended for those with physical disabilities, heart conditions, or young children |
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What You'll Learn
Buying tickets online for the Eisriesenwelt ice caves in Werfen, Austria
The Eisriesenwelt ice caves in Werfen, Austria, are a spectacular natural wonder and the largest ice cave system in the world. Stretching over 40 kilometres through the Tennen Mountains in the Austrian Alps, this network of frosty caverns and tunnels was discovered in 1879. Visitors can explore vast blue-tinged chambers, impressive ice sculptures, and frozen waterfalls.
Buying Tickets Online
You can conveniently purchase tickets for the Eisriesenwelt ice caves online through the official website. When you buy your ticket online, a 30-minute timeslot is booked for your arrival at the visitor's centre. After that, there is no time restriction at the cable car or cave entrance, so you can explore at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to take in the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the ice caves.
It is important to note that the ice caves can only be visited as part of guided tours, which are available from May to October. These tours typically last around 75 minutes and provide scientific insights and historical facts about the cave.
What to Expect
The Eisriesenwelt ice caves offer a unique and authentic experience, intentionally keeping the caves without electricity. Visitors are provided with historically recreated lamps, similar to those used during the discovery of the cave system, creating a distinctive ambiance with their carbide lights and white magnesium illumination.
Additionally, it is essential to come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear, as the temperatures in the ice caves remain around 0°C even during the summer. There is also a considerable amount of walking involved, including a 20-minute walk from the car park to the cable car and an additional 20-minute walk from the cable car station to the cave, followed by climbing 1400 steps within the cave.
Tour Options
Several tour options are available for visiting the Eisriesenwelt ice caves, including private tours with transportation from Salzburg. These tours often include additional attractions, such as visits to Hohenwerfen Castle or Golling Waterfall, providing a comprehensive and memorable experience.
Remember to book your tickets in advance to ensure you can visit at your preferred time and fully enjoy this breathtaking natural wonder.
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Getting to the ice caves by car, cable car and foot
Getting to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves by Car, Cable Car, and Foot
The Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves are located in Werfen, Austria, and are open daily from May 1 to October 31, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. The site features a cash desk (visitor's centre) and a cable car that takes visitors up to the cave entrance.
By Car: If you are travelling to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves by car, there is a car park available on-site. Please note that there is a 20-minute walk from the car park to the cable car station. The cable car will then take you up to the cave entrance.
By Cable Car: The cable car ride from the station to the cave entrance takes approximately 20 minutes. This is a one-way trip, and the cable car operates from 8:45 am to 3:20 pm.
By Foot: From the cable car station, it is an additional 20-minute walk to reach the cave entrance. Once inside the cave, there are 1,400 steps to climb. The entire experience, from the visitor's centre to the cave tour, can take around 3 hours. Please note that this does not include time spent at the on-site restaurants.
It is important to wear sturdy shoes, warm clothing, hats, and gloves, especially for young children. Anoraks or jackets should be carried in a rucksack and only put on at the cave entrance if the outdoor temperature is warm.
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What to wear and pack for the ice caves
When packing for a trip to the Austrian ice caves, it is important to consider the temperature and terrain. The Eisriesenwelt ice cave, for example, is located in the Tennen Mountains in the Austrian Alps and has a temperature of under 0 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is crucial to wear and pack appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a pleasant and safe experience. Here is a list of what to wear and pack for your visit to the ice caves:
What to Wear
- Sturdy shoes or boots: Ensure you have comfortable and sturdy footwear with good traction. Hiking boots or shoes are ideal, as they provide grip and support for the uneven terrain and potential icy conditions.
- Warm socks: Opt for warm and comfortable socks, preferably made from synthetic materials that wick away moisture and dry quickly.
- Warm and comfortable clothing: Dress in layers to trap body heat and allow for temperature regulation. Wear a base layer of lightweight and breathable clothing, followed by insulating layers such as fleece jackets or sweaters. A hat, gloves, and a scarf are also highly recommended to keep your head, hands, and neck warm.
- Light jacket: A lightweight jacket or fleece can provide additional warmth without adding too much bulk.
What to Pack
- Backpack or rucksack: Bring a comfortable bag to carry your belongings and any items you may need during the tour.
- Waterproof jacket: The weather in the Alps can be unpredictable. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat that can be easily stowed in your backpack.
- Sweater or fleece: Bring an extra layer in case you need more warmth, especially if you plan to spend time outside the cave.
- Water and snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is important, especially if you plan to hike or engage in other physical activities.
- Headlamp or flashlight: As the Eisriesenwelt ice cave has no electricity, you will be provided with historically recreated lamps. However, bringing your own light source can be helpful for additional illumination or in case of emergencies.
- First aid kit: Always be prepared for minor injuries or blisters. Include items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
- Sun protection: Even in cold temperatures, the sun's rays can be strong, especially at high altitudes. Bring sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
- Map and compass: If you plan to hike or explore the surrounding area, a map and compass can help you navigate and ensure you don't get lost.
Remember to dress appropriately for the cold temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions of the Austrian ice caves. By packing wisely and wearing the right clothing, you can fully enjoy your exploration of these breathtaking natural wonders.
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The history of the ice caves
The Eisriesenwelt, or “World of the Ice Giants”, is a natural limestone and ice cave located in Werfen, Austria, about 40 km south of Salzburg. It is the largest ice cave in the world, extending more than 42 km, with about 200,000 tourists visiting every year. The cave is nestled inside the Hochkogel mountain in the Tennengebirge section of the Alps, which is one of the massifs in the Austrian Alps and the largest karst plateau in the Salzburger Alps. The Eisriesenwelt was formed by the Salzach River, which eroded passageways into the mountain.
The ice formations in the cave were created by thawing snow that drained into the cave and froze during the winter. The open year-round entrance allows chilly winter winds to blow into the cave and freeze the snow inside. In the summer, a cold wind from inside the cave prevents the formations from melting.
The cave was first officially discovered by Anton Posselt, a natural scientist from Salzburg, in 1879. However, before his discovery, it was known only to locals, who believed it was an entrance to Hell and refused to explore it. Posselt only explored the first 200 meters of the cave, and his findings were quickly forgotten after he published them in a mountaineering magazine in 1880. Alexander von Mörk, a speleologist from Salzburg, was one of the few who remembered Posselt's discovery and led several expeditions into the 26-mile-deep cave system in the early 1900s. He was so captivated by the beauty of Eisriesenwelt that he requested his ashes be buried there. Today, the cave tour includes the Alexander von Mörk Cathedral, one of the largest rooms in the cave and von Mörk's final resting place.
The Eisriesenwelt is owned by the National Austrian Forest Commission, which has leased it to the Salzburg Association of Cave Exploration since 1928. The cave is open to visitors from May 1 to October 26 every year, with temperatures usually below freezing. Photography is not permitted inside the cave, and visitors are advised to wear warm clothing.
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Other attractions near the ice caves, such as Hohenwerfen Castle
Other attractions near the ice caves
The Eisriesenwelt ice caves in Werfen are located around 40 kilometres south of Salzburg, making the city a convenient base for your trip. The Salzburg Card provides free or discounted admission to numerous sightseeing attractions, along with free use of public transportation.
The town of Werfen itself is also worth exploring. You can visit Hohenwerfen Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the ice caves themselves. The castle is over 900 years old and has been featured in several films, including "Where Eagles Dare".
Another nearby attraction is Golling Waterfall, one of Austria's most scenic waterfalls. You can take a private 6-hour tour from Salzburg that includes a visit to the Werfen Ice Caves and Golling Waterfall.
If you're looking for more ice caves to explore, the Dachstein Ice Cave is a great option. It is located near the charming village of Hallstatt, which is a popular spot in Austria. Dachstein has been developed as a tourist attraction, offering cave bears, a rope bridge, and a light show in addition to the ice cave itself.
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Frequently asked questions
Tickets to the ice caves in Austria can be bought online or at the ticketing centre.
The Dachstein Ice Cave (Dachsteinhöhlen) and the Werfen Ice Cave (Eisriesenwelt) are two of the most popular ice caves in Austria. The latter is the largest ice cave in the world.
Visiting the ice caves in Austria requires a significant amount of physical exertion, including hiking and climbing steep stairs. It is important to assess your fitness level and consider the clothing and equipment you will need for the trip.
