Welcome to the world of snow wonders! If you are looking for an adventure that will take you to a mystical land full of glacial formations and stunning landscapes, then the Eisriesenwelt Werfen is calling you. This beautiful Austrian ice cave is not only the largest in the country, but also one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Join us as we take you on a journey through this magical place and find out everything you need to know about exploring its frozen wonders. From stunning natural sculptures to fascinating geological phenomena, prepare to be amazed by all that awaits you!
About Eisriesenwelt Werfen
Eisriesenwelt Werfen is a natural wonder in the Austrian Alps. It is the largest ice cave in the world and a must-see for any visitor to Austria.
Cave is about an hour south of Salzburg and easily accessible by car or bus. There are several tour operators that offer guided tours of the caves, and I highly recommend taking one of these tours. The guides are very knowledgeable and they will make sure you see all the highlights of the cave.
The visit begins with a short film about the history of the cave and how it was formed. Then take the cable car to the cave entrance. From there, you walk through caves admiring giant icicles and stalactites. The tour ends with a hike through the underground lake, which is truly breathtaking.
If you visit Austria in winter, I also recommend that you take a snowshoe tour of the Eisriesenwelt Werfen. What an amazing experience exploring this wonderland in the snow!
Cave History
The Eisriesenwelt is a natural wonder located in the Tennengebirge mountain range in Austria. It is the largest ice cave in the world and its name means “world of ice giants”. The cave is over 30 kilometers long and filled with exquisite ice sculptures.
Eisriesenwelt was first discovered in 1879 by the Viennese professor Anton von Posselt-Feldmann. He was exploring the Tennengebirge mountains when he came across a large opening in the mountain. Von Posselt-Feldmann entered the cave and was stunned by the huge ice formation inside.
In 1912, another explorer, Ludwig Purtscheller, became the first person to reach the bottom of the cave. It took him three years to map the entire cave system. Today, visitors can take guided tours of parts of the cave that have been safely used for tourism.
Cave Exploration: What to Expect
When exploring the caves, you can expect to see a variety of beautiful ice formations. The caves are constantly changing, so no two visits are the same. You can see icicles, stalagmites and icicles. The cave is also home to a variety of animals, including bats and moths.
Safety instructions and guided guides
Eisriesenwelt is a magnificent natural wonder, but it is important to remember that it is still a wild place. There are a few safety considerations to keep in mind when visiting.
First, the cave is only accessible by guided tour. Tours typically last 1-2 hours and depart every 20-30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center.
Second, the temperature in the cave is a constant 5°C (41°F), so dress accordingly. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes that can be changed as needed.
Third, the bottom of the hole is smooth in places. Be careful when walking and take your time. Armrests are provided in some areas for additional support.
No photography is allowed inside the cave.
This helps protect delicate constructions from flashlights and camera flashes.
A guided tour is the best way to discover Eisriesenwelt. Not only will you learn about the fascinating history and geology of the cave, but you will also have an experienced guide pointing out all the highlights. Tours usually cost around €15 per person, including round-trip transport from Werfen to the cave entrance.
Things to do and see nearby
Eisriesenwelt Werfen There is no shortage of things to do in the area.
In summer, visitors can go hiking and climbing in the nearby Tauern National Park. The park is also home to Grossglockner, Austria’s highest mountain. In winter, skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of the slopes at one of the many nearby ski resorts.
For those interested in history and culture, there are several castles and museums in the area. The Schloss Festung Hohensalzburg is a must for anyone visiting Salzburg.
The castle is located on a hill overlooking the city, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another popular attraction is the Museum der Moderne, located in the town of Mönchsberg, just outside Salzburg. The museum houses modern art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or culture, you’ll find it near Eisriesenwelt Werfen.
Accommodation options
If you would like to stay close to the Eisriesenwelt Werfen, you have several accommodation options to choose from.
The closest option is Hotel Almhof Schneider in the village of Werfen, just a short drive from the ice cave. There are also a few campsites in the area, such as Campingplatz am Steinernen Meer, about an hour’s drive from the cave.
If you’re looking for more luxurious accommodation, you can always stay at one of Salzburg’s many seaside resorts, about an hour and a half drive from Eisriesenwelt Werfen.
Visiting tips
Assuming you mean visiting tips for the Eisriesenwelt caves:
- Check the weather before you go and make sure you dress appropriately. The temperature in the caves is always close to freezing, so wear layers and bring a jacket.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. You will walk a lot on slippery surfaces.
- Even if you are taking a guided tour, bring a flashlight or headlamp. There are dark areas in the cave and you will want to be able to see where you are going.
- Don’t touch anything in the hole! Ice is fragile and easily damaged.
Conclusion
Exploring the Eisriesenwelt Werfen is a great way to experience the beauty of Austria’s largest ice cave. From breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites to awe-inspiring views from the top, this stunning natural wonder will create memories that will last a lifetime.
With so much to explore and discover in one place, it’s no wonder that the Eisriesenwelt Werfen has been attracting visitors for years. Discovering the magic of work here is an unforgettable experience!
