Highlight • Cave
Eisriesenwelt Werfen Ice Cave
Hiking
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Mountaineering
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Eisriesenwelt Werfen, meaning "World of the Ice Giants," is the largest ice cave in the world, nestled within the Hochkogel mountain in the Tennengebirge section of the Austrian Alps. Located approximately 40 to 50 kilometers south of Salzburg, near the charming town of Werfen, this natural limestone and ice cave system offers a truly unique spectacle. The cave entrance itself sits at an elevation of about 1641 to 1656 meters above sea level, making it a prominent feature in the…
Tips
October 4, 2020
Hiking
With the Eisriesenwelt ticket you get a 20% discount on entry to Hohenwerfen Castle with the falconry (flight demonstration)
•August 18, 2016
Hiking
•June 30, 2018
Hiking
So, do not forget warm clothes!
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Eisriesenwelt Werfen Ice Cave
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,700 m
Weather
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Friday 13 March
6°C
-4°C
12 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Eisriesenwelt Werfen using public transport?
While the cable car significantly reduces the ascent, reaching the base of Eisriesenwelt Werfen by public transport is possible. You can take a train to Werfen station. From there, a local bus service (often a shuttle bus during peak season) typically connects to the parking area at the base of the mountain, from which you can then proceed to the cable car station. It's advisable to check current bus schedules and connections in advance, especially outside of peak tourist times.
Is Eisriesenwelt Werfen accessible for visitors with mobility issues or wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, Eisriesenwelt Werfen is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues or wheelchairs. The journey involves a significant amount of walking, including a steep path to the cable car, another walk from the cable car mountain station to the cave entrance, and then navigating approximately 1,400 steps inside the cave during the guided tour. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery, making it challenging even for those without significant mobility restrictions.
Is Eisriesenwelt Werfen suitable for families with young children?
Eisriesenwelt Werfen can be challenging for families with very young children due to the physical demands. The tour involves climbing 1,400 steps inside the cave, and the entire visit, including walks and cable car rides, can take several hours. Strollers are not permitted inside the cave. Children who are able to walk independently for extended periods and manage stairs will likely enjoy the unique experience, but parents should consider their child's stamina and comfort with cold temperatures.
What is the physical difficulty of visiting Eisriesenwelt Werfen?
Visiting Eisriesenwelt Werfen is considered moderately challenging. It involves several stages: a walk from the parking area to the lower cable car station (approx. 20 minutes uphill), a cable car ride, another uphill walk from the mountain station to the cave entrance (approx. 20 minutes), and finally, the guided cave tour itself, which requires climbing and descending about 1,400 steps over 70 minutes. Visitors should be reasonably fit and comfortable with sustained walking and stair climbing at altitude.
How crowded does Eisriesenwelt Werfen get, and when is the best time to avoid large groups?
Eisriesenwelt Werfen is a popular attraction, drawing around 200,000 tourists annually, so it can get very crowded, especially during summer weekends and public holidays. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, particularly in the shoulder seasons (late April/May or late September/October). Arriving early in the morning, right when it opens, or later in the afternoon can also help you experience fewer people.
Why is it so cold inside the Eisriesenwelt cave, and what specific clothing items are essential?
The cave's unique geological structure creates a 'chimney effect,' where cold winter air sinks into the cave and gets trapped, while warmer summer air cannot penetrate deeply. This keeps the interior below freezing point year-round, allowing the ice formations to persist. Essential clothing includes warm layers, a sturdy jacket, and closed-toe shoes with good grip. Many visitors also recommend wearing gloves, as handrails can be very cold or even covered in ice.
What other attractions or activities are available near Eisriesenwelt Werfen?
The area around Eisriesenwelt Werfen offers several other attractions. A popular choice is Hohenwerfen Castle, a medieval fortress known for its falconry shows, which is often visible from the cable car ride. Visitors with an Eisriesenwelt ticket may even receive a discount on entry to the castle. The surrounding Tennengebirge mountains also offer numerous hiking trails for various skill levels, providing stunning panoramic views of the Salzach Valley and the High Tauern peaks.
What is the geological history behind the formation of Eisriesenwelt Werfen?
The Eisriesenwelt began forming tens of millions of years ago when the Salzach River eroded passageways into the limestone mountain. The impressive ice formations, however, are a more recent phenomenon, originating about 1,000 years ago. They are created by thawing snowmelt seeping into the cave system during spring. As this water flows through the colder parts of the cave, it freezes, gradually building up the magnificent ice sculptures and formations that visitors see today.
Are there any specific viewpoints or photo opportunities along the way to the cave?
Absolutely! The journey to the cave itself is incredibly scenic. The cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Salzach Valley, the town of Werfen, and the surrounding peaks of the High Tauern. There are also several viewpoints along the walking paths from the cable car mountain station to the cave entrance, providing excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the alpine landscape before you even step inside the ice cave.
Can I purchase tickets online, and are there any benefits to doing so?
Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve your tickets online. Purchasing tickets in advance often provides several advantages: you might find them to be slightly cheaper than on-site tickets, and some visitors report having a separate, faster entrance at the check-in point. Additionally, online ticket holders may have access to specific parking areas, potentially saving time and hassle, especially during busy periods.
Are there cafes or restaurants available at Eisriesenwelt Werfen?
Yes, there are facilities available for food and refreshments. Near the cable car's valley station and mountain station, you'll typically find mountain huts or restaurants where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and warm meals. These are perfect for a break before or after your cave tour, offering a chance to warm up and enjoy the views.