eisriesenwelt cave tour

Scrape the ice free and discover the Eisriesenwelt.

Eisriesenwelt

We are on winter break and are open daily from May 1 to October 31, 2024 from 8:30 to 15:00!

Video tour Experience a part of the Eisriesenwelt before your visit.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

An overview of the most important things.

Do you have any questions? Click here for the contact page 

Opening times 2024

Daily from May 1 to the October 31 Cash desk (visitor’s centre) 8.30 – 15.00 Cable car (up to the cave) 8.45 – 15.20 Cave (tour) 9.30 – 15.45

How to get here Start your ice cave adventure

An overview of tickets An experience for everybody

Live webcam weather conditions in real time.

National Geographic visits the Eisriesenwelt

#EISRIESENWELT Impressions from our visitors

What our visitors say about us.

„Fascinating and spectacular! Note: This experience is not recommended for those who have difficulty walking. The lighting from the torches is particular impressive. But for those who can, this is a unique experience.“

„A wonderful experience, close to nature and simple, just as it should be in the mountains. The walk was refreshing, everywhere was secured, and there was a spectacular view of the cave itself and the steep walls.“

„Highly recommended for everyone who wants to experience something special. However, there are a few things you should be aware of and know. The note about good shoes and warm clothes is really meant seriously.“

Offers & tours

An experience for the whole family, combi ticket.

Cave tour incl. cable car

If you are booking the cave tour and cable car online, you save money. In comparison with buying tickets on-site (at the cash desk), you get the online tickets at a reduced price.  

Book a ticket Ticket Overview

% discount when buying tickets online

Top ways to experience Eisriesenwelt and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Eisriesenwelt - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Private Werfen Ice Cave and Golling Waterfall from Salzburg (From $589.69)
• Ice Caves, Waterfalls, and Salt Mines Private Tour from Salzburg (From $917.30)
• Werfen World's Largest Ice Caves and Golling Waterfalls Tour (From $687.97)
• Private Tour: Werfen Ice Caves Adventure from Salzburg (From $819.02)
• Private Tour to world's biggest Ice Caves & Werfen from Salzburg (From $666.13)
• (1.27 mi) Berghotel Garni Burgblick
• (4.30 mi) Travel Charme Bergresort Werfenweng
• (4.23 mi) Gut Wenghof - Family Resort Werfenweng
• (8.78 mi) Hotel-Pension Wagnermigl
• (6.59 mi) Döllerers
• (0.32 mi) Dr Oedl-Schutzhaus
• (0.34 mi) Dr. Oedl Schutzhaus
• (1.93 mi) Restaurant Obauer
• (0.70 mi) Berggasthof Zaismann
• (9.36 mi) K2 Cafe - Restaurant
• (1.41 mi) Burg Hohenwerfen
• (9.82 mi) Obersee
• (6.73 mi) Gollinger Wasserfall
• (5.04 mi) FlyTandem Paragliding
• (9.63 mi) Rossfeld Panoramastraße

Ice Caves in Werfen

The world's biggest ice cave is the site of fascinating ice sculptures and is one of the most popular sightseeing attractions in Salzburg.

Werfen's "Eisriesenwelt" [world of ice giants] is actually the world's biggest ice cave: The cave system extends more than 42 km deep into the mountain. The first section, about a kilometer in length, features imposing ice formations and is open to the public. Since it is a protected natural monument, development of the cave has been painstakingly cautious in order to preserve its unique natural beauty and ecosystem.

Stepping through the imposing cave entrance, 20 meters wide and 18 high, you enter a mysterious world of ice. Aside from its enormous dimensions, the cave impresses with its ice palaces of crystalline beauty. Monumental formations glisten to amazing effect in the light of the traditional mine lamps which are issued to visitors. Winding passageways and galleries with evocative names such "Diamond Realm" lead you deeper and deeper into the mountain.

The Ice Caves can only be visited as part of guided tours offered from May to October. These 75-minute tours include scientific information and historical facts about the cave. Especially on hot summer days, you will find yourself immerged in what is essentially a parallel world of ice. Incidentally, on clear days you will be able stand at the cave entrance and look out at a magnificent mountain panorama in front of you.

You can in fact hike from the visitor center in the valley all the way up to the ice caves in the Tennengebirge mountains. Or, cut out the steep section altogether and let the steepest gondola lift in Austria carry you up to the cave entrance. Even in summer, the temperatures in the ice cave are around 0° C. Appropriate clothing and shoes are a must - and you need to be in fairly good physical condition: In the cave itself, you will have to cope with a total vertical gain of around 234 meters, which includes a countless number of stairs. That said, the silent beauty of the ice caves rewards every single ounce of effort!

Opening times

The prices can be found on the official website .

Impressions

YouTube Video

This might also interest you:

Best of Mozart Concerts & Best of Mozart Dinner Concerts

Fortress Hohensalzburg: Culinary and musical delights high above the city's rooftops

Mozart in the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace

Enjoy finest chamber music and orchestra concerts with compositions of Mozart and his contemporaries.

Plan your visit

Here you will find your ideal accommodations, sightseeing tours of Salzburg, special events and tickets, along with all the benefits of the Salzburg Card.

Book guided city tours and excursions in and around Salzburg online:

The many-and-varied cultural events represent the heart & soul of Salzburg. Book your tickets right here:

• Advent/Christmas/New Year's
• Congresses / Fairs / Workshops
• Culture / customs / markets / festivals
• Exhibitions
• Guided tours
• Religious events
• Theatre / shows / dancing / films

The Salzburg Card provides you with free or discounted admission to numerous sightseeing attractions, along with free use of public transportation.

• Interactive map
• Salzburg Magazin
• Book your hotel

Find accommodations

Please select your language

Please send me information by email about specials, news and events.

By checking the box, you consent to the processing of the aforementioned personally identifiable data for the purposes of sending you an email newsletter based upon your expressed agreement and until such point as you wish to revoke or rescind your consent.

Further information about how we protect your data can be found in our privacy policy!

FREE WALKING TOURS IN SALZBURG — click here!

Eisriesenwelt Werfen: Exploring the World’s Largest Ice Cave

The Eisriesenwelt in Werfen is not only the largest Ice Cave in Austria but the largest ice cave in the world. Therefore, it’s no wonder the Eisriesenwelt Werfen is one of the 3 most popular day trips from Salzburg . It is located near the town of Werfen about 40 kilometers south of Salzburg. The Cave was discovered by accident in 1879 which was an adventure worth knowing about.

Nowadays, the visit to the Eisriesenwelt Werfen is less dangerous but still more adventurous than most other touristy things. The cave is 42 kilometers deep but we can only explore the first kilometer on our tour of the Werfen Ice Cave.

General Information

More information.

• Open in Google Maps
• 5450 Werfen
• +4364685248
• Visit the Eisriesenwelt Website

When to visit the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen?

Season: The Eisriesenwelt Werfen is a seasonal activity. That’s because the Cave is located at 1700 meters of altitude and in winter there is snow all the way to Cave Entrance. It would be impossible to get there but also the conditions in the cave would not be right in winter.

Time of Day:  The Eisriesenwelt Werfen receives about 200.000 visitors a year and that is only in summer. Therefore, you can imagine, that it gets busy, especially if you visit in the months of June, July or August. We talked to the visitors center staff and the guide and they told us, that the best time of the day to avoid the crowds at the world’s largest Ice Cave is in the early morning or for one of the last tours of the day.

Best Weather Conditions:  Some think that the Eisriesenwelt Werfen might be a bad weather activity since it’s indoors but that’s a common misconception. The caves are inside but the way to the cave would not only be uncomfortable in bad weather but it would also be a pity to miss the Alpine landscape when it’s covered in clouds.

How to prepare for an Eisriesenwelt Visit?

• Make sure to bring warm clothes! The temperature inside the cave is around 0 degrees even in summer when it’s hot outside. For that reason, even in summer, you need to wear winter clothing to visit the Ice Cave in Werfen.
• Make sure to wear good shoes!  You have to climb 700 steps up and another 700 steps down. These steps due to the climate inside the World’s largest Ice Cave are wet and slippery.
• There is no need to bring a camera.  Okay, that’s not entirely true. You will most likely want a camera to document your way up to the Cave Entrance which includes two hikes and the most amazing Alpine landscape but inside the Eisriesenwelt Werfen photography is prohibited . That’s partly because of the previous point I made. When 30 people are distracted by selfies, climbing 1400 slippery steps would be dangerous. Also, they tell you that not taking pictures helps preserve the cave but honestly, it’s nice that everyone spends 70 minutes being in the moment and the caves are too dark for proper photography anyway.

How much is the Ticket to the Eisriesenwelt

The regular ticket for an adult to the Eisriesenwelt Werfen costs €35,- in 2022, if you get your ticket at the visitors center and €32,-, if you pre-book your ticket at the webshop of the Werfen Ice Cave .

In the table below you can see that there are cave-only or cable-car-only tickets.

Those who wish to hike to the entrance of the ice caves can skip the cable car, but they must be experienced alpinists. If you don’t know what you’re doing, the hike can be dangerous.

Buying just the cable car ticket would make no sense because there isn’t much to do on the mountain except to visit the Werfen Ice Caves. If you want only to ride the cable car and not visit an ice cave, if you just want to be on the mountain, there are cable cars that are easier to reach, such as the Untersbergbahn.

How to Get to the Eisriesenwelt

Eisriesenwelt by Public Transport: To reach the Eisriesenwelt Werfen by public transport, always take the train to Werfen first. The most popular starting point for a trip to Werfen is Salzburg . For example, if you want to get to the Ice Cave from Vienna or if you want to reach the Eisriesenwelt from Innsbruck, you still have to change trains in Salzburg. It’s only if you’re coming from a less popular place like Villach or Klagenfurt, or from Slovenia, that you would go directly to Werfen.

Once you reach Werfen you take a shuttle bus to the visitors center (Besucherzentrum Eisriesenwelt) where you buy your tickets for both, the Eisriesenwelt cable car and the Ice Cave entrance. From the visitors center, you walk 10-20 minutes to the cable car, take the cable car and hike another 10-20 minutes to the entrance of the Eisriesenwelt where your tour guide awaits you.

Read this article for detailed instructions on how to get to the Eisriesenwelt from Salzburg by public transport .

Eisriesenwelt by Car:  If you have a car at your disposal, the Eisriesenwelt is a convenient 40-minute drive from Salzburg. The A10 takes you to Werfen, and in Werfen, you will see signs for Eisriesenwelt. It is not worth renting a car if you do not have one. From Salzburg, you can also only drive to the visitors center, so the hike, cable car, and the other hike are still on the schedule.

Private Tour to the Eisriesenwelt: There used to be public tours to the Eisriesenwelt by Panorama tours, the largest tour operator in Salzburg, but considering the already high entrance fee to the Ice Cave, it turned out to not be profitable and was discontinued.

However, private tours to the Eisriesenwelt are available. It’s not required since, same as when traveling by car, you still have to hike twice, take the cable and join the same guided tour inside the ice cave but if you are a group of people, don’t have a car, and/or prefer not to deal with public transportation, you might want to consider a private guide from Salzburg to explore the world’s largest ice cave. For more information on private tours to the Ice Caves, click here.

The Tour of the World’s largest Ice Cave

 When visiting the largest Ice Cave in the World, you need to join a guided tour once you reach the Cave entrance. That’s the same tour for everyone no matter if you travel to Werfen on your own or if you join a private tour. The guide is always provided by the people who run the Ice Giant World. From my experience, the guides are humorous, passionate, and well-informed.

At the entrance to the cave, every other person gets a petroleum lamp. That’s actually the only light in the cave except for certain spots where you stop and the guide tells stories or points out certain shapes in the ice. For that purpose, the guide lights phosphor luminaires.

The History of the largest Ice Cave in the World

The history of the Werfen Ice Cave dates back to the year 1879. That’s when Anton Posselt made it 200 meters into the cave. The Ice was too steep and Posselt didn’t have the right gear. In 1913 another explorer, Alexander Mörk, climbed the wall that stopped Posselt decades earlier. That’s when it turned out, that the Werfen Ice Cave is 42 kilometers deep and, therefore, the largest Ice Cave in the world.

The first guided tour of the Ice Cave only happened in 1920 but what we explore nowadays in 70 minutes, took 8 hours back then since visitors still had to climb the same Ice Wall Mörk climbed in 1913 for the first time. Alexander von Mörk by the way was buried inside the Cave after his death.

What else is there to do in Werfen?

The main attraction in Werfen is without a doubt the world’s largest Ice Cave. But while the Eisriesenwelt Werfen will be the main purpose of a Werfen visit, there are a couple of more things to do in Werfen :

• Hohenwerfen Fortress: The Hohenwerfen is a medieval fortress built at the same time as the Hohensalzburg Fortress (11th century) by the archbishop of Salzburg. The Hohenwerfen fortress looks great in the middle of the valley. It can be seen everywhere in Werfen and even from the path to the ice cave but a visit is not a must. You might find this article on the Free Walking Tour Salzburg’s Blog helpful when deciding whether or not to visit Hohenwerfen fortress during your day trip to the Eisriesenwelt.
• Sound of Music Meadow: The Sound of Music meadow in Werfen is really a tourism marketing gig. The Sound of Music meadow is the meadow shown in the movie’s opening scene as well as the picnic scene when Maria teaches the kids the Do-Re-Mi song but was not a thing before 2015. In 2015, for the 50th anniversary of the movie, Werfen came up with the idea to market the meadow as an attraction and it worked. From Werfen, it takes about an hour to hike to the meadow. On the way there you find information and games and the view from the meadow is worth the hike if you have time to spend before or after the Werfen Ice Cave and decide against visiting the Hohenwerfen fortress.

If you are traveling by car, there would be spots worth stopping by on the way from Salzburg. There is for example the Salt mine in Hallein , the gorgeous Bluntautal valley in Golling , or the Golling waterfall .

How to get to the Werfen Ice Caves from Salzburg by Public Transport

Similar Posts

Salzburg’s Surroundings: Top 7 Places to Visit Near Salzburg

Salzburg is a gem of a city. It is not only rich in history and art but also surrounded…

10 Things to do in Hallstatt: Hiking, History and the oldest Salt Mine

Hallstatt is known as one of the most photographed villages in the world and the most famous village in…

The 5 Best Things to Do in Berchtesgaden (Germany)

The Roam Austria Blog is of course about Austria but while Berchtesgaden is located across the border in Bavaria,…

The 3 Best Day Trips from Salzburg: to Hallstatt or not to Hallstatt

The city of Salzburg can be explored in a day or two, but its surroundings are beautiful and worth…

3 Things to do in Werfen Austria: Local Tips for First Time Travelers

To be perfectly honest, there is only one must-do thing in Werfen. The main reason for most travelers to…

Salzburg Card Review: Is the Salzburg Card worth buying?

The Salzburg Card is a 24- 48- or 72-hour sightseeing card that includes almost all of the paid attractions…

Travel Tyrol

Austria travel blog, werfen ice caves – how to see the eisriesenwelt in austria, essential guide to plan your visit.

Visiting the Werfen ice caves near Salzburg in Austria is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all lovers of natural wonders. Getting to the mouth of the cave via cable car and hiking trails before entering the Eisriesenwelt is part of what makes this a must-visit attraction for anyone who is able and fit.

We visited the ice caves on a day trip from Salzburg . The Werfen Castle which dominates the town’s skyline is the one you see in the famous meadow picnic scene in The Sound of Music . We love exploring the history of the filming of The Sound of Music in Salzburg . The caves are also easily reached from Zell am See if this is where you’re based.

Werfen Ice Caves Basics

5 Reasons to Visit the Eisriesenwelt

• It’s the largest ice cave in the world – Although you’ll only see the first 2 km, the entire cave system is 42 km long.
• Cool off on a hot summer’s day – At an average year-round temperature of 0 °C, you’ll soon stop complaining about the heat after trekking up the mountain.
• Hike up a mountain AND ride a cable car – Getting to the mouth of the Werfen ice caves is part of the fun of visiting the Eisriesenwelt. Two shortish (about 20 minutes each) hikes are broken up by a thrilling cable car ride. In fact, it’s the steepest gondola lift ride in Austria.
• See stunning ice formations – The sheer size of the formations, including the Great Ice Embankment of about 25 m high, will let you forget about the cold.
• Enjoy beautiful views of the Alps – On your way to the Eisriesenwelt in the Tennengebirge, you’ll enjoy different views of the surrounding valleys and mountains as you make your way up to the Werfen ice caves. In particular, look out for Werfen Castle and the Sound of Music meadow behind the town of Werfen.

Our Werfen Ice Caves Experience

Getting to the mouth of the cave.

From the ticket office, a wide and well-marked gravel path leads to the cable car station. At one point, you can take a shortcut through a tunnel in the mountain or take a detour around it. We took the tunnel on the way up and walked around on the way back. The detour doesn’t take that much longer, but does make a difference if you don’t want to wait too long for the cable car.

There wasn’t a long queue at the cable car station, but long enough that we didn’t make it into the first car that arrived. The next car came quicker than we thought, so we didn’t wait more than 15 minutes in total.

This was on a quiet afternoon in October, so I can’t imagine what the lines look like during the peak season in July and August. Fortunately, there’s a small café and a snack vending machine with cold drinks if you’re in need of refreshments while you wait.

After leaving the top cable car station, you’ll pass the Dr. Oedl-Schutzhaus restaurant that serves traditional Austrian food. From the terrace, you have great views of the surrounding mountain landscape. I suggest stopping here after your cave tour, especially if you arrive at or after lunchtime, to ensure you have enough time for the tour and to take the last cable car down.

The last bit of your trek to the mouth of the Eisriesenwelt is another 20-minute hike. You’ll soon be above the tree line and walking next to sheer rock faces.

Many parts of the trail have been covered to protect visitors from potential rockfalls and it’s wide enough to safely pass hikers coming from the front. Even more safety measures were implemented after a fatal accident in July 2020 when a falling rock killed a teenager.

There are toilets on the left just before you get to the mouth of the cave. We waited about 20 minutes for our tour to start and used the time to take pictures and dress warmly.

Inside the Werfen Ice Caves

The guides introduce themselves and give you a lecture about how to behave inside the caves. They also hand out open-flame carbide lamps to every 4th or 5th person to light the way inside. We didn’t get one, but I was glad I didn’t have the added responsibility of trying not to set myself (or anyone else) alight.

There is no electric light in the caves. The only light is from the lamps or from magnesium flares set off by the guides to illuminate the ice formations.

No photography is allowed inside the caves. Accept this fact before your visit and put your camera/smartphone away. The environmental impact on the caves is one reason and the other is the utter chaos that will ensue if everyone wanted to take pictures all the time.

You are warned about the 700 steps and difference in altitude of 134 m you’ll have to overcome inside the cave. Your only chance to opt-out of the tour is after climbing most of the stairs. If you feel you’re not going to make the rest of the way, you can wait at one particular point for another group at the end of their tour and return to the exit with them. Believe me, there were people in our group who made use of this option.

Some of the ice walls are 20 metres thick. Among the highlights are stalagmites and stalactites that represent an ice organ, waterfalls, a chapel, and a tower.

The cave tour alone lasts about 75 minutes.

Interesting Ice Caves Facts

• The caves were officially discovered in 1879 by Anton von Posselt-Czorich from Salzburg.
• One of the early explorers, Alexander von Mörk, was buried in the cave after he got killed in World War I.
• The oldest layers of ice in the Werfen Ice Caves are approximately 1,000 years old.

Tips for Your Werfen Ice Caves Visit

• Wear sensible shoes and take a warm jacket and something to cover your ears no matter how scorching hot it is outside. If you’re not wearing jeans or other long pants, take a pair of tights to put on under your shorts or skirt before you enter the cave. I forgot my beanie and ended up wrapping my scarf around my head.
• Don’t fret about not being able to take pictures inside the cave. Just enjoy the experience. Pictures don’t do it justice anyway. Honestly, I don’t get how some people say the caves aren’t worth visiting just because they’re not allowed to take pictures inside.
• Make sure you have enough time to enjoy the experience without worrying whether you’ll make the last tour or the last cable car down. Start your journey up the mountain at least 3,5 hours before the last car ride.
• Buy your tickets and book a specific time online to avoid waiting in lines, but only if you are sure you’ll be there on time.

How to Get from Salzburg to Werfen

Many people visit the ice caves on a day trip from Salzburg. There are 3 possibilities to travel from Salzburg to Werfen:

Getting from Salzburg to Werfen by car is quick and easy via the A10 highway. It should take about 45 minutes to cover the distance of 56 km. From the town to the ice caves, it’s another 5 km.

There is limited parking outside the ice cave ticket office. If you arrive during a busy time of the day, it’s best to park in town and catch the shuttle bus . There is quite a big parking area that you can’t miss near the train station between the highway and the Werfen town centre. Return tickets cost €7,50 per adult.

Bus and Train

Getting from Salzburg to Werfen by public transport is the easiest by train. The journey between the Salzburg main train station (Hbf) and Werfen takes only 40 minutes and cost from as little as €9.

Organised Tour

If you want to make sure you get to the caves without getting lost, an organised Werfen ice caves tour from Salzburg is the answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the walk to werfen ice caves.

Visiting the Werfen ice caves requires three walks of over 2 hours in total. The first two will get you to the mouth of the cave, with a cable car ride in between. The last is the cave tour which covers about 2 km.

While the hiking trails on the way to the caves are wide and even, it is mostly uphill. Inside the cave, there are 700 steps to climb (up and down in total) – in a single file and by lamplight only. You should seriously consider if you’re fit enough to cope before entering the cave.

What are the Werfen Ice Caves ticket options?

• Note that online tickets are slightly cheaper.

*Disclosure*

Having fun in Austria, and then writing about it is hard work 😆 . That’s why some links in this article are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you use any of them to make a purchase. It’s totally cool if you don’t. I love to help anyway. If you do, it will help us discover another part of Austria to write about.

Recent Posts

Related Articles

Honest review of Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg

The Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg is ideal for travellers who need a clean and comfortable room to return to after exploring this beautiful Austrian city. It’s conveniently located close to everything and the substantial breakfast […]

Salzburg Card review and proposed itineraries

Salzburg has a lot more to offer than a few Sound of Music filming locations. The Salzburg Card provides the proof with free access to 24 world class attractions including the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Hellbrunn Palace […]

8 Best Day Trips From Salzburg to Suit Everyone’s Taste

Salzburg is ideally located for day trips to some of the prettiest cities, villages, and natural attractions in Austria and neighbouring Germany. Here are 10 of the best day trips from Salzburg to consider when you’re using the city as a base when visiting Austria. […]

This is amazing! I had no idea there were caves in Austria. And it seems like they’re really accessible too. Looks like an incredible day!

This is so cool! I had no idea this was so close to Salzburg. And I hear what you’re saying about photos. One of the most insanely awesome things I’ve ever done (the ATM Cave in Belize) has a strict no-cameras policy. On one hand you’re disappointed because the experience is so great, but really – no quick photo could ever do the place justice. (That’s never a reason to not visit though!)

Totally bookmarking this for my next trip to the Alps.

I’ve never seen an ice cave like this but would love to one day! That’s kind of nice that you don’t have to worry about photos and can just enjoy it. The views look stunning on the hike up too. I visited Salzburg about 25 years ago but never knew of this. I did take the Sound of Music tour though! 😁

What a cool spot! Looks awesome.

Caves fascinate me! I’m about to visit some caves near Sydney, so I really enjoyed the article. I haven’t been to an ice cave though! The formation on the image looks absolutely amazing.

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

Privacy Preference Center

Consent management, advertising.

World of Caves

UnderGround Cave Adventures Await

Ultimate Guide to Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave (Austria) (Tours, Pricing, History)

We may have been compensated for this post. Please keep in mind that it affects you in no way financially. If an item is being reviewed, we are not obligated to give a positive review and always use our own words. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. If you would like a review done contact Dannelle at [email protected]

Sharing is caring!

• Pinterest 3

Ever wanted to explore a glacier? Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in Europe, is waiting for you. But before you dive into the icy depths of this natural wonderland, it’s important that you know what to expect. So we’ve created an ultimate guide so that your visit will be as safe and enjoyable as possible!

We are talking about this cave today as Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave has the largest ice formations in Europe. When you visit, you’ll explore and experience this natural wonderland with a tour guide who will talk about geology, ecology, glaciology, and much more!

There are different tours to choose from that cater to visitors of all abilities. The duration is dependant on how long you want to spend exploring these frozen halls. And don’t worry if your language skills aren’t up there – our guides speak fluent English!

Udderly Ridiculous

Rumor has it that it was first discovered by accident when two cows broke through a hole in the ice and followed their noses into this frozen cave!

History of Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

Anton Posselt, a natural scientist, was the first person to discover the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave in 1879. However, it is believed he only went as far as two hundred meters from the entrance. Interestingly, the cave was already known to locals, but they never took the liberty of exploring as they had a theory that it was a gateway to hell.

After his brief exploration, Posselt released a copy of his findings in a mountaineering magazine, but it was not long before the publication went on to the back burner.  

In 1912, one of the only speleologists of the time, Alexander von Mörk, was among those who had early cave expeditions. He remembered clearly when Posselt discovered the cave, and it wasn’t long after his mission that many more explorers started doing the same. However, Mörk died in World War I in 1914, and it is believed an urn with his ashes still lies in a niche in the cave.

They built a cabin for explorers in 1920 known as Forscherhütte, which led the first route up the mountain to be established. Soon after, the area started attracting many tourists, and the cave became a “world sensation.” It was not long after another cabin, the Dr. Oedl House was built, which initially made way for the Werfen and Tenneck pathways to be built.

The Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave is now owned and operated by the National Austrian Forest Commission but has leased it to the Salzburg Association of Cave Exploration. This has been going on since 1928, and the Forest Commission receives a percentage of all earnings coming in from cave activities.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave Fun Facts

• The cave measures around 40 km and is formed from limestone with only around 1 km covered in ice.
• The cave’s temperature remains below freezing point all year round – yes, even in the summer!
• There is an area in the cave known as the Great Ice Embankment, where some unique formations are found.
• The cave entrance is roughly 124 meters above ground level, so you may want to take the trail or preferably a cable car for easier transport.
• It is the largest ice cave in the world.
• You may want to wear sturdy boots as there are areas in the cave that are extremely narrow and slippery.
• The cave was established in 1879.
• The cave features a lot of frozen waterfalls and amazing water droplet designs.

Download our FREE Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave Guide (Unofficial)

Eisriesenwelt ice cave wildlife.

It might be unclear if lots of life live and exist in the cave as the temperatures tend to be below freezing point at all times. However, further beyond the icy regions of the cave, where human tours are not allowed, there could be life existing in these areas.

Caves do have a lot of wildlife existing in them, but more research is yet to be done to determine the types in the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave Geological Formations

Like many caves around the world, formations occur in the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave, just that they are in different forms – icy!

Stalactites & Stalagmites – There are lots of stalactites and stalagmites in the cave, as well as lots of frozen waterfalls that have formed over time. The interesting thing about the whole cave is that the stalagmites can be slippery while they are bumpy.

Columns – Several columns are formed in the cave as the minerals flow with the water as they meet from the cave’s roof to the ground.

Waterfalls – The cave has many frozen waterfalls, and seeing the temperature in the cave is so low, it is not hard to understand the possibilities.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave Tours

There is the option to tour the cave, but this has to be done with a guided tour, and it usually goes in groups of 20. This includes the cable car and touring of the accessible regions of the cave. The cave generally opens between May and October each year, and daily, there are numerous tour options…

* The daily tours begin when the first set of visitors arrive at the cave each morning, and it usually begins at the cave entrance. Tours run at least every hour and a half or as the groups show up for tours.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave Prices and Discounts

The prices vary depending on the mood of visiting the cave and the age group that is visiting. Here is an average of the price range it may take to get an entrance into the cave…remember, these prices are in Euros as it is Europe.

Combined Rate (Cave Tour & Cable Car):

• Adults: €33.00
• Youth (15-18 yrs): €23.00
• Children (5-14yrs): €18.00

Cave Tour Without Cable Car (Footpath over alpine terrain):

• Adult: €16.00
• Youth (15-18 yrs): €11.00
• Children (5-14yrs): €9.00

Cave Car Without Cave Tour:

• Adult: €20.00
• Youth (15-18 yrs): €14.00
• Children (5-14yrs): €11.00

Discounted (Call for details):

• Adult: €11.00
• Youth (15-18 yrs): €8.00
• Children (5-14yrs): €6.00

Where to Stay Near Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

You would not want to miss out on the fun of sticking around in the area after you visit the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave. There are many fun places you can stay that will enhance your overall experience as you will get the “home away from home” feeling. Here are a few places you can stay…

Berghotel Garni Burgblick (Adults Only)

Well, this hotel is best suited for those who prefer to stay without the kids on their vacation as they seek to bind and grow intimate. The hotel features some amazing amenities, and the staff is amazingly wonderful. It is located 2 km away from the cave and roughly 500 meters away from Hohenwerfen Castle. There is so much to see and explore from this amazing hotel.

Hotel Werfenerhof

Hotel Werfenerhof has located roughly 2.6 km from the Eisriesenwelt and has some of the most spacious rooms to complement your stay. They are fully equipped with free internet access and have a cool spa area, private parking, and an amazing restaurant. It is open to the entire family to create memories that you will love.

Get Our Newsletter!

Get our latest and greatest cave guides delivered right to your inbox!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Weisses Rössl Werfen

This amazing hotel has some of the most intriguing features and amenities you will love and will leave you back for more. Weisses Rössl sits in the middle of Werfen, close to the bicycle trail. There is free WiFi access in every room with loads of space and private bathrooms. It is suitable for the entire family, and there is also an on-site pizzeria.

Places To Stay Nearby

Eisriesenwelt ice cave details.

• Length: 42 Km
• Time recommended: 1hr and 15mins
• Trail Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Depends as the area has lots of ice
• Kid-Friendly: Yes, but it can be a little challenging.
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, but owners have to be mindful if it is okay for their pets
• Accessibility: Parking Lot
• Fee/Permit: Varies
• Hours: 8:30 am to 3 pm (May to October Only)

How to Get to Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

Getting to Eisriesenwelt Cave is relatively easy and “right around the corner” from where you are. The cave is around 40km south of Salzburg, and you can reach the location by taking either the trunk road from Salzburg or the train service, which leaves you in Werfen. Other routes of entry, such as the Tauren motorway (A10) south and exit via the 34 Paß Lueg.  

Other articles you may find interesting:

• Cave Challenges and Competitions: Testing Skills in the Depths
• Ultimate Guide to Devil’s Island Sea Caves, Wisconsin (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Cave Conservation Success Stories: Positive Impact on Fragile Habitats
• Best Caves in Las Vegas Nevada
• Cave-Associated Myths and Superstitions: Unraveling the Legends

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Reach us by Email:

DannelleGay (at) gmail (dot) com

Recent Posts

Recent comments.

• Discover Natural Bridge Caverns in Texas - on Ultimate Guide to Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Uncovering the Mysteries: Exploring Caves in Michigan - Michiganly on Ultimate Guide to Spider Cave, Michigan (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Tour These Historical Caves Mined By Native Individuals For Hundreds Of Years – Things To Do in Myrtle Beach on Ultimate Guide to Wyandotte Cave, Indiana (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Majestic Caverns — stunning beauty, amazing history on Ultimate Guide to DeSoto Caverns, Alabama (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Caver on Ultimate Guide to Airmen’s Cave, Texas (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• The Best List of Caves in Pennsylvania
• Ultimate Guide to Cave at Backbone State Park, Iowa (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
• Best Caving Gloves for Ultimate Protection: Top Picks in 2023
• Best Caving Carabiner: Top Picks for Safe and Secure Caving Exploration
• The Best List of Caves in Illinois

Privacy Policy

Exploring the World’s Largest Ice Cave: Eisriesenwelt (2024 Guide)

Written by Kali Todd

December 27, 2023, austria | europe | travel guides.

Pinterest | Facebook | Instagram | X

Eisriesenwelt is a short 50-minute drive from the city of Salzburg in Austria and is one of the most amazing natural phenomena I have ever seen. The cave is located at the top of Hochkogel Mountain, 5,384 ft (1,641 m) above sea level, and contains over 26 miles (42 km) of natural limestone and ice mazes . Eisriesenwelt is explored entirely by a gas lantern, which is like taking a step back in time! It is an absolute bucket list item.

Eisriesenwelt is only accessible by a guided tour that lasts about 90 minutes and includes 1400 stair steps inside the cave . To get to the top of Hochkogel Mountain where the tour begins, there are two options: hike the entire way up or complete the hike/cable car combo . To hike the entire way is a very difficult 4.3-mile trail with an elevation gain of nearly 2,300 feet and takes at least 130 minutes to complete. The hike/cable car combo includes about 40 minutes of hiking along with a short 3-minute cable car ride.

The path from the cable car to the entrance of the cave has some incredible features, including the option to walk through the mountain or take the mountain view around. I highly recommend the hike/cable car combo unless you are up for the challenge of the trail. Just remember that you will have an additional 90 minutes of walking within the cave.

Once we arrived at the entrance of the cave, my fiancé , Corey, and I were handed a gas lantern since there is zero light inside . We stood outside a large manmade door and were given the warning that our lanterns might go out after stepping into the cave. The ice cave remains below freezing year-round, and with the difference in temperature outside, gusts of wind up to 62 mph (100 kph) can be felt when entering the cave ! The draft shoves you through the doorway. Once our lanterns were back up and running, we could see flickers of light against the ice that filled the cave along with the staircases that are built into the ice.

The tour of Eisriesenwelt only brings you through a fraction of the cave but is a breathtaking experience. Eisriesenwelt is a relatively new find, discovered in 1879, and remains largely unknown with only 200,000 visitors a year. Compare that to Stonehenge in England which was first excavated in the 1620s and now has over 1 million visitors a year.

Eisriesenwelt was first discovered by Anton von Posselt-Czorich from Salzburg but he was only able to make it 656 ft (200 m) into the cave because of the steep ice formations. Anton passed in 1911, and Alexander von Mörk continued Anton’s research in 1913 but died in 1914 during WWI at 26. Alexander’s last wish was to be placed inside Eisriesenwelt, which was granted. His body is entombed inside the ice cave, and we were able to view this memorial site during our tour. It wasn’t until 1920 that Eisriesenwelt became a tourist site and in the 1950s the cave became more accessible with the addition of the cable car and better roads.

Going into this guided tour, I was a little disappointed because of the photography restriction. No photography is allowed according to their website, however just before we entered the cave, our guide informed us that he would make an exception because of the smaller tour sizes they had that day! All of the photos you see in this article were taken by me during our tour of Eisriesenwelt. Even if you are unable to take photos, Eisriesenwelt is an experience you will never forget.

Before this trip, I would have never guessed that the largest ice cave in the world was in Austria. The ice cave does take some effort to get to but the path and cable car only add to the experience; you are surrounded by beautiful mountain views and a fantastic hiking trail that truly immerses you in what Austria has to offer. In all, Eisriensenwelt needs to be at the top of your list when visiting Austria! It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visiting Eisriesenwelt

The cable car/cave tour ticket prices are cheaper online than at the entrance. Other ticket options include only the cave tour (no cable car), or only the cable car (no cave tour). These two ticket options are only available in person, not online. There is a restaurant just off the top of the cable car, Eisriesenwelt Restaurant, that has fantastic views of the mountains and the town of Werfen. The restaurant is the perfect spot to relax with a beer. There are also opportunities for snack purchases at the parking lot entrance and just before the cable car. 

When is Eisriesenwelt open? The ice cave is a seasonal attraction and is only open May thru October.

How long to spend at Eisriesenwelt? 3.5+ hours

How much does it cost? Combination tickets, available online, that include the cable car and ice cave tour are: Adults €38, Youth (15-18) €27, and Children (5-14) €19 (Updated 2024 prices)

Where to purchase tickets: eisriesenwelt.at/

Need to know : Eisriensenwelt is not for those with certain physical disabilities. You must be able to complete at least 40 minutes of moderate hiking, stay standing for 90 minutes, and climb 1400 steps. There is no opportunity to sit down in the cave.

T he ice cave is always below freezing. I highly recommend warm clothes and gloves. The gas lanterns are metal and very cold to hold on to once you enter the cave.

Wear shoes with good traction. The staircases in the cave are wet.

Bring a water bottle. You will not have access to water when in the cave.

Don’t let the pictures in this article deceive you, the cave is DARK! The only light while walking through the cave comes from the small flame on your lantern. The guide will light up the area as you come upon the different ice features.

Where to stay: I really enjoyed my stay at Der Burgblick in Werfen. This hotel included breakfast and cost about USD 110 for one night (October 2021). The rooms have a fantastic view of Hohenwerfen Castle.

Don't Miss A Beat!

Stay up to date with the latest travel guides and tips.

10 Extraordinary Things to Do in Innsbruck, Austria

Jan 1, 2024 | Austria , Europe , Travel Guides

Innsbruck is a historic, picturesque city with a mountainous backdrop. Settlers date back to the early Stone Age and today the city is well-known for hosting 2 Olympic Games.

Salzburg’s Natural Wonders: Saalachtaler Naturgewalten

Nestled within the village of Weißbach bei Lofer, in the State of Salzburg, are mesmerizing works of nature showcased at three different sites – Seisenberg Gorge, Lamprecht’s Cave, and Vorderkaser Gorge.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road: A Scenic Highway Adventure

Aug 9, 2023 | Austria , Europe , Travel Guides

In the enchanting mountainous landscape of Austria is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a breathtaking route that meanders through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, Europe’s largest conservation area.

15 Comments

Wow, this looks amazing!!!

Wow! This is a bucket list trip for sure! Thanks for sharing and good luck on your new site! Pinning this for later 🙂

I never heard of this before, now I definitely need to visit Austria! Adding this ice cave to my bucket list.

This is amazing!

Fascinating!

Wow, how incredible! I definitely want to visit Austria now!

Wow! This cave looks fantastic! I really like your photos, especially these from the inside with these ice shapes! I hope to visit it one day!

The Ice Cave in Austria sounds like an interesting adventure. Even though I am a beach and sun kinda guy. I woukd visit just for the experience. Thanks for sharing

that looks stunning!!!

To think this is in Austria! I thought for sure it would be in Iceland. It’s very beautiful.

Wow, your photos look incredible! I would love to visit one day, thanks for sharing!

*adds to bucket list* These pictures are absolutely breathtaking, it sounds like a once in a lifetime experience for sure!

Wow! That is incredible!

This is so cool! I’d never heard of this cave but it looks incredible, definitely adding to my bucket list! And I appreciate all of your warnings and clarifications, it’s definitely good to go in with your eyes open!

Wow this looks absolutely fabulous, definitely makes me want to visit..

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• 14-Day European Vacation For Less Than $1,500: Trip Cost Report - […] Read more about this excursion here. […]

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 Yes, add me to your mailing list

Submit Comment

Getty Images/Westend61

Eisriesenwelt

Top choice in Salzburg & Salzburgerland

Billed as the world’s largest accessible ice caves, Eisriesenwelt is a glittering ice empire spanning 30,000 sq metres and 42km of narrow passages burrowing deep into the heart of the mountains. A tour through these Narnia-esque chambers of blue ice is a unique experience. As you climb up wooden steps and down pitch-black passages, with carbide lamps aglow, otherworldly ice sculptures shaped like polar bears and elephants, frozen columns and lakes emerge from the shadows.

A highlight is the cavernous Eispalast (ice palace), where the frost crystals twinkle when a magnesium flare is held up to them. A womb-like tunnel leads to a flight of 700 steps, which descends back to the entrance. Even if it’s hot outside, entering the caves in any season is like stepping into a deep freeze – bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear.

In summer, minibuses (return adult/child €7/5) run at 8.18am, 10.18am, 12.18pm and 2.18pm from Werfen train station to Eisriesenwelt car park, which is a 20-minute walk from the bottom station of the cable car. The last return bus departs at 4.32pm. Allow roughly three hours for the return trip (including the tour). You can walk the whole route, but it’s a challenging four-hour ascent, rising 1100m above the village.

Eishohlenstrasse 30

Get In Touch

https://www.eisriesenwelt.at

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Schloss Hellbrunn

18.91 MILES

A prince-archbishop with a wicked sense of humour, Markus Sittikus, built Schloss Hellbrunn in the early 17th century as a summer palace and an escape…

Festung Hohensalzburg

21.25 MILES

Salzburg's most visible icon is this mighty, 900-year-old clifftop fortress, one of the biggest and best preserved in Europe. It's easy to spend half a…

Gasteiner Wasserfall

26.96 MILES

Bad Gastein’s star attraction is this 341m waterfall, which rages over rugged cliff faces and through thick forest to tumble into three turquoise pools…

11.15 MILES

Gliding serenely across the wonderfully picturesque, emerald-green Königssee makes for some unforgettable memories and photo opportunities. Cradled by…

The crowning glory of Salzburg's DomQuartier, the Residenz is where the prince-archbishops held court until Salzburg became part of the Habsburg Empire in…

Eagle's Nest

10.22 MILES

At 1834m above sea level, the Eagle's Nest was built as a mountaintop retreat for Hitler, and gifted to him on his 50th birthday. It took around 3000…

Dachstein Caves

24.69 MILES

Climb to the Dachstein caves (Dachsteinhöhlen) and you’ll find yourself in a strange world of ice and subterranean hollows, extending 80km in some places…

Dokumentation Obersalzberg

11.33 MILES

In 1933 the tranquil Alpine settlement of Obersalzberg (3km from Berchtesgaden) in essence became the second seat of Nazi power after Berlin, a dark…

Nearby Salzburg & Salzburgerland attractions

1 . Burg Hohenwerfen

Slung high on a wooded clifftop and cowering beneath the majestic peaks of the Tennengebirge range, Burg Hohenwerfen is visible from afar. For 900 years…

2 . Berchtesgaden National Park

10.17 MILES

Forty years old in 2018, the wilds of this 210-sq-km park still offer some of the best hiking in Germany. A good introduction is a 2km trail up from St…

3 . Eagle's Nest

4 . Königssee

5 . Dokumentation Obersalzberg

6 . Salzwelten

12.28 MILES

During Salzburg’s princely heyday, the sale of salt filled its coffers. Today, at Austria’s biggest show mine, you can slip into a boiler suit and descend…

7 . Salzbergwerk

12.32 MILES

Once a major producer of ‘white gold’, Berchtesgaden has thrown open its salt mines for fun-filled 1½-hour tours. Kids especially love donning miners’…

8 . Stille Nacht Museum

13.13 MILES

Hallein’s festive claim to fame is as the one-time home of Franz Xaver Gruber (1787–1863), who composed the carol Stille Nacht (Silent Night). Joseph Mohr…

• Cappadocia (Region)
• TRAVEL INSPRIATION

Day trip to Werfen Ice Caves | World’s largest ice cave

• BY SANCHI LOHIA - Feb 12, 2020

The world’s biggest ice cave and the coolest (pun intended) place we visited in Austria!!! Day trip to Werfen ice caves(Eisriesenwelt) is one of the most popular attractions near Salzburg! The term ‘Ice Cave’ fascinated us so much that we had to check it off our bucket list. For curious people looking for the ‘not so mainstream’ things to do/see near Salzburg, this is it.

In this blog you will find almost all-important things you need to know if you plan on or are confused about visiting these caves.

GETTING THERE

We have listed down the ways to reach the entrance of Werfen Ice Cave(Eisriesenwelt) from Salzburg as doing this day trip from Salzburg is the most convenient in comparison to any other city in Austria . From the starting point, you will have to do a 20 min hike. Then take a cable car (optional) or continue trecking. Lastly, another 20 min hike to reach the ice cave

Getting to Werfen is a fairly easy 50 minute drive from Salzburg.

By Public Transportation

Take the train from Salzburg to Werfen Bahnhof (40-50 mins) leaves about every hour (costs € 13 on spot and €9if you book in advance) . From Werfen Bahnhof you can take the shuttle bus that will take you straight to the main entrance of Werfen Ice Caves. Round trip bus fare: Adults: € 7, Kids: € 5.

By Private Tour

You can take a guided private/group tour from Salzburg to explore the largest ice cave in the world. There are plenty of tour providers to choose from. The private tour would cost you around € 650 for a maximum of 8 people and the group tour is more or less €100 per person.You may ask your hotel reception to help you with the provider with the most suitable pick up location from your accommodation.

What to expect!

1. ride up on austria’s steepest gondola lift.

As mentioned above, once you buy your ticket, you will have to do a 20 min hike to get to a cable car. This is Austria’s steepest Gondola ride and view’s are to die for. You will have to pay a tad bit extra for the gondola ride, but it’s definitely worth it! You can choose to skip the cable car and hike instead.

2. Guided Ice Cave Tour

• After the hike and gondola ride you will reach the entrance of the Werfen ice cave.
• This 75-minute tour, which covers the first kilometre of the cave of a total of 42 kilometres, includes scientific information and historical facts about the cave.
• You could choose to take the tour in English or German.
• The caves can only be visited as part of guided tours offered from May to October.
• On clear days you will be able to stand at the cave entrance and look out at a magnificent mountain panorama in front of you. Lucky for us we got to see this!
• Check out the below video to get a look at what you are going to experience:

Other Nearby Attractions

1. have a meal at obauer, 2. burg hohenwerfen castle.

This medieval rock castle overlooks the town of Werfen. It is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers breathtaking views. This castle dates back to the 11th century.

3. Oedlhaus Cafe

This cafe is located next to Eisriesenwelt cable-car top station. The best thing about this cafe is the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On a misty day, you will feel you are eating over the clouds.

4. Golling Waterfalls

• This waterfall is located in the town of Golling an der Salzach, which is just a 20 mins drive from Werfen. The view of this waterfall is just breathtaking. We highly recommend doing this.
• You can also check Liechtenstein Gorge which is also very pretty.
• Start early so by the time you reach the cave it’s all cozy, cold, foggy and pleasant (weather wise) to hike up. Additionally, if you start early and finish your tour in time, you will be just in time for brunch at the cafes on the way and you will be safe from the sun during your trek down.
• No photography or filming is allowed inside the cave (helps preserves the ice caves)
• Even if you are sly and can manage to click pictures, you might want to carry your low light photography lenses because there is very little light inside the caves
• Even when the temperature outside is over 80°F, it is still freezing in the ice cave(0°C/32°F)
• Last cable car up the mountain is at 4:20 PM(in July, Aug.) or 3:20 PM (in May, June, Sept., Oct.)
• Last Cave tour is 4:45 PM (in July, Aug.) or 3:45 PM (in May, June, Sept., Oct.)
• Please remember that to complete a trip of Werfen Ice Cave. Apart from around 40 mins hike up the cliff each way, the cave has 1400 steps (700 steps up and 700 steps down). And once you enter the cave you can’t walk out unless it’s a medical emergency.
• Cave Tour duration is approx. 1hr 15 mins. Language options are German and English.
• The ticket costs are revised annually so we suggest you check the costs here.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

RELATED ARTICLES

10 Best Day trips from Salzburg – Complete Guide

Day trip to Hallstat | Things to do | Complete Guide

Top 11 things to do in Vienna | Complete Guide

Best 8 things to do in Salzburg | Complete Guide

9 Best Day Trips from Vienna | Complete Guide

Social media.

Like what you see? We have lots more on our social media pages.. See you there!

• Terms & Conditions

The Perpetual Saturday

A Cost-Conscious Malaysian Blog

Everything to Know About Visiting Eisriesenwelt (Werfen Ice Caves)

Eisriesenwelt is an incredible natural wonder located high in the mountains near Werfen that you have to see to believe. It is one of the largest ice caves in the world at over 42 kilometres long, although only a small portion of the cave is open to the public. Entering the cave system is only possible with a guided tour, which takes about an hour.

How to Get to Eisriesenwelt

First, you have to get to the town of Werfen if you’re not staying locally. Driving is straightforward, but you could arrive by train or even hike to Werfen. I will focus on train, since that is the method we took. We went from St. Gilgen to Salzburg to Werfen. If you can catch a train to Salzburg, you can easily transfer there to get to Werfen.

Shuttle Bus

The Werfen Ice Caves are far from the town and up high on the mountain on a winding road. A shuttle bus goes from the Werfen train station to the Eisriesenwelt Visitor’s Centre. The shuttle bus costs €8.50 for a return trip. You can take one-way trips, but I don’t recommend it. The walk up the mountain would take hours. The shuttle bus waits outside Werfen train station and departs every two hours at 08:18, 10:18, 12:18 and 14:18.

In a show of impressive initiative, the bus driver noted our delayed train on this day and waited for us. If your train is running late on your visit, there is a good chance the shuttle bus driver will similarly wait. It’s in Eisriesenwelt’s best interest to bring as many people as possible to the caves so a lazy bus driver will not go unpunished.

Whichever method you take to get to the Werfen Ice Caves, the first stop is the Visitor’s Centre. This building houses a ticket desk, toilets, a cafe and a gift shop. This is not where the ice caves are located, only where you buy tickets.

Admission Price & Opening Hours of Eisriesenwelt

An adult ticket to Eisriesenwelt is €42 , which includes admission to the cave and two rides on the cable car (ascent and descent). There is a discount for buying tickets online and more special discounts for youths (aged 15 – 18) and children (ages 5 – 14). Visitors can purchase tickets for the ice cave or just the cable car (return or single trip).

You can save a few Euros by hiking up to Eisriesenwelt, but it’s not a good idea for most tourists. It’s a 1575m and 90-minute walk, plus the combined forty minutes from the Visitor’s Centre and the cable car station.

The Werfen Ice Caves are open half the year and close during the colder months. Visiting season usually begins in late April/early May and runs until October. Eisriesenwelt opening hours are from 9:30 am to 3:45 pm – the first and last tour times. The ticket desk has roughly the same opening hours from 8:30 am to 3 pm. The cable car runs from 9 am to 5 pm.

What to See at Werfen Ice Caves

Scenic views on panoramaweg.

After buying tickets, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk to the cable car station. Not far from the Visitor Centre, there’s an option to take a tunnel shortcut to the cable car station. Unless it’s pouring rain and too foggy to see anything, I highly recommend avoiding this tunnel and taking the Panoramaweg instead. It will add more time to your ascent, but there are views of the surrounding mountains and Werfen in the little pocket of green in the valley.

The halfway point is the cable car station . Unlike other bahnhofs in Germany, the Eisriesenwelt bahnhof is nothing special. Even at 10 am, we were packed like sardines in the small cable car. We didn’t get any photos out the window because there would have been a bunch of heads and limbs in the way. The ride only takes a couple of minutes.

After disembarking from the cable car, it’s another steep 20-minute walk to the Eisriesenwelt cave entrance. We were practically jogging by now to be on time for the tour. My advice is to budget your time better than we did so you don’t rush through this final leg.

The Tour at Eisriesenwelt

The Eisriesenwelt cave tour takes about one hour . As far as I know, the tours are only in German and English . Walking through the ice caves requires a moderate degree of fitness . The journey goes up 134 metres in altitude – about 40 storeys – with 1400 stairs along the way. It is not recommended for anyone who has trouble walking or climbing stairs.

Our tour guide was named Norbert, quite possibly the happiest man I’ve ever seen. It wasn’t just a job to him – he was an ice cave enthusiast and so excited to be back at a place he seemed to love. Since we visited on Eisriesenwelt’s opening day, Norbert was in good spirits and feeling generous on this day. We also had a relatively small tour group, so everyone had permission to take non-flash pictures.

We passed through the thick metal door, getting an icy blast of air from the change in pressure before plunging into the inky darkness. Illumination in the cave is borne by the group, and is seriously old school. Approximately every second person on our English tour received a kerosene lamp. This small lamp is surprisingly heavy and has an exposed flame at the front. Everyone had to be careful not to walk too close together or hold it close to our woolly, flammable jackets.

The Werfen ice caves are more than the usual magnificence of huge, looming caverns. The giant hills and solid walls made of smooth ice have an otherworldly blue glow. Icy stalactites are everywhere, but there is one curious cluster of stalagmites that looks amusingly phallic.

The frozen mountain waters are so pristine and untouched by human pollution. At one point, the path goes through a tunnel formed from immaculate, clear ice.

One of the tour stops include the “ice elephant.” Even with the years of melting and freezing water, it’s easy to see the distinguishing shape.

Eisriesenwelt’s Ice Cathedral is like something out of a fantasy movie. A dome with terrifyingly sharp icicles hangs over a giant stalagmite as wide as a human. It’s easy to picture this spot as an evil ice queen’s throne room.

Another astonishing stop is this completely frozen waterfall gushing into a frozen lake – a peek into how the Werfen Ice Caves came into existence. Snow from the mountaintops above melts and seeps into the cave through various cracks and holes. The temperature in the cave continually freezes the incoming water, even in the summer.

The final stop was a wall of ice with peculiar stripes, much like rings on a tree. Norbert allowed the group to walk up to the wall, touch it and take pictures briefly. Then it was time to turn back the way we came to begin the uninterrupted journey back to the cave entrance.

Can I Take Photos at Eisriesenwelt?

Photographs are not officially allowed at Eisriesenwelt . The reason Norbert gave us was for organizational concerns. A horde of tourists all stopping to snap photos will significantly slow down the tour. The walkways through the cave are narrow. If anyone stops to take a photo, everybody behind them is stuck. The tours are on a strict schedule with only thirty minutes between each timeslot. Each group must be far enough along the cave so the next group doesn’t get jammed up behind them.

Also, some shitty amateur photographers still insist on using flash on their cameras. A blanket no photos rule prevents twenty flashbulbs from going off in the guide’s face every time he stops to explain something.

What To Wear to Eisriesenwelt

No matter what time of year you visit Eisriesenwelt, it will be 0°C or colder in the cave. Yes, even in the summer! Do not underestimate how chilly it will be inside the cave. I can’t think of anything worse than trying to enjoy this magnificent natural wonder while shivering the entire time. Definitely bring gloves and a jacket. If you’re from a cold weather country, you might be able to handle the chill better. Still, you’ll be more comfortable with some layers.

We visited Eisriesenwelt in late April. While the outside temperature on the mountain was only lightly nippy, it was bitterly cold inside the ice cave. My fingers, even inside my gloves, were going numb. I don’t think there’s any way around bringing heavy winter clothes to Eisriesenwelt in the summer.

The same goes for shoes. Wear proper walking or hiking shoes with closed toes. Don’t try to wear your sandals to the ice cave during summer. A visit to Eisriesenwelt involves a lot of uphill walking, and that’s before the tour even starts! Inside the cave, there are 700 stairs up and 700 stairs down. The walkways aren’t icy or slippery, but you should still wear shoes with good treads.

When To Go to Eisriesenwelt

If you have complete freedom in your schedule, I recommend going to the Werfen ice caves on a sunny day in the early morning. Mornings in the mountains have a better chance of being clear, so you can get great views on the way up. The crowds get bigger as the day wears on, too.

The first tour is at 9:30 am. Only the most committed tourists will be at Eisriesenwelt this early, so you’ll likely get a smaller tour group. The cave rules might relax slightly in small groups, and there’s the chance you could be able to take pictures or get closer to the ice. However, I don’t think this is applicable during the high season of June, July and August.

It’s natural to assume that Eisriesenwelt is a good rainy day activity since it is “indoors.” That’s true, but you still have to walk up the mountain to get to the cave entrance. Also, with poor visibility, you’ll miss the breathtaking scenery of the valley while walking the Panoramaweg. Not to mention that dining on the patio of Dr Oedl Haus will be out of the question. Sipping a post-cave beer next to the restaurant’s fireplace is okay, but it doesn’t compare to enjoying a beer outdoors with a view of the mountains.

Restaurants at Eisriesenwelt

Visitor’s centre cafe.

There is a small cafe once you step into the visitor centre. They have limited drinks and food, but you can get a quick sandwich, strudel or cake. The seating area has a cosy lodge feel with cool “cave accents.”

Dr Oedl-Haus

Click on menu pictures to enlarge

Dr Oedl Haus is just off the cable car station after the ascent. This restaurant is a popular stop for visitors after their cave tour. On a clear day, the patio is full of tourists enjoying the surrounding mountain scenery. They serve beer, hot drinks and simple German dishes. We ordered a Grillwurstl with French Fries ( € 10.80) and a Kaiserschmarrn ( € 13.20) . The food was nothing to remember. Our enjoyment largely came from the stunning view and the incredible experience we just had inside the cave.

Toilets at Werfen Ice Caves

There are several washrooms along the way. The first is the one at the Visitor Centre . The second washroom is a shack near the cable car station , about 20-minutes from the ticketing desk. The final toilets are near the Eisriesenwelt cave entrance built into the rock. The most comfortable facilities are the Visitor Centre toilets, so I would suggest going there. The other two washrooms are outdoors and will be chilly during the colder months.

Saturday Worthy?

Eisriesenwelt was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend a visit. We were originally going to visit the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave near Hallstatt, but after seeing the Werfen Ice Caves, we are so glad we came here instead. Dachstein apparently has lights, music, and bear sounds playing in the cave, which seems a little campy and overly touristic.

Eisriesenwelt is more authentic and tries to keep everything as close to how it was when the cave was first discovered. The kerosene lamps are the same ones used during the initial 1920s explorations, and there are minimal man made structures inside the cave. A stop at Eisriesenwelt is a must if you’re staying in Werfen. It’s even worth taking a train in for a day trip. You can combine the ice caves with The Sound of Music Trail and Hohenwerfen Castle.

Explore More Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• TRAVEL JOURNAL
• Write for Traveler’s Buddy
• Media content
• Video Content
• Photography and Video content

Visiting an ice cave in Austria: Eisriesenwelt or Dachstein?

I visited the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave and Dachstein Ice Cave in Austria and explored a world of ice and frost

When I think about Summer in the Alps, I can’t imagine visiting an ice cave in Austria. Hot and long Summer days are usually for me associated with outdoors activities and swims at the late, not exploring glittering caverns and ice tunnels. Well, during my last visit in the Alps I not only found out that Austria has the largest ice cave in the world, but also that is available for a visit all year long except during the cold winter.

A natural wonder easy to explore

There are only a few ice caves in continental Europe travelers can access to. The Ice Grotto of Mittelallalin in Switzerland and the Dobšinská Ice Cave in Slovakia are some of the most famous ones. Yet, they might not be as beautiful as the two of the ice caves you can explore in Austria: Dachstein and Eisriesenwelt.

Located only 75 km away from each other and very close to the German border, Dachstein and Eisriesenwelt became popular stops for European travelers during a weekend trip to Salzburg or Hallstatt, as well for those cruising the Alps.

A refreshing activity for the Summer

Oddly, most ice caves in Austria are not accessible on winter. Tours to Dachstein or Eisriesenwelt can be taken only between May and October, as this is the time where the route is not completely covered with ice and snow. Even though during Summer temperatures are hot enough to melt the ice within minutes, the doors of the cave are kept closed and the cold wind from inside blows toward the entrance to prevent the giant ice formations from melting. Alternatively, the entrance of the cave is kept open during winter. This is the time, when the icy winter winds blow into the cave and freeze the snow inside.

Each cave offers a completely different experience too. Due to its proximity to the idyllic town of Hallstatt, Dachstein has been lately developed to be more a tourist attraction: Cave bears, rope bridge and a light show are now part of the program. While in Eisriesenwelt travelers can do only lamp-lit tours which in some way transport you back in time.

NOTE: There are several signs stating that photography is not allowed inside Eisriesenwelt. However, some tour guides understands that this is a very memorable experience to most people and they don’t mind if you snap one or two photographs during the tour.

Dachstein in a nutshell

Planning a tour to Dachstein is not difficult at all. There are guided tours held in English and German every 30 minutes, and tickets can be either purchased online, at the ticket station in Hallstatt or at the feet of the Dachstein Mountain.

To visit the Giant Ice Cave of Dachstein you also need to take the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car and then walk around 15 minutes to the cave. Ticket price for the ice cave in Dachstein is 37,50 EUR including the cable car ride and the tour last around 50 minutes.

Opening times

In 2020 the Dachstein Ice Cave will be open to the public until November 2 nd 2020 and the times for the last guided tour are:

• 29.05.20 until 03.07.20 –  close at 3:30 PM
• 04.07.20 until 13.09.20 –  close at 4:30 PM
• 14.09.20 until 02.11.20 –  close at 3:30 PM

Where to stay

The closes town to Dachstein is the beautiful and charming village of Hallstatt. This is an extremely popular spot in Austria and accommodation should be booked in advanced if you are traveling in high season.

Read more: How to plan a road trip around Iceland

Eisriesenwelt in a nutshell

Traveling to Eisriesenwelt feels more like a little adventure. It is also located on top of a mountain (next to the town of Werfen) and can get accessed by cable car or walking. However, travelers have to get first to the middle section of the mountain by car or public transportation, where the ticket office is located.

Tickets can be purchase in advance on their website or straight at the office. Furthermore, the ticket price change depending if you want to take the cable car or not ( 10 EUR without cable car or 28 EUR using a cable car ).

NOTE: Tickets without cable car can only be purchased in person

Even though I wanted to take the first option and safe some money, the hike to the top of the mountain can take up to two hours completely uphill and then 1 hour to go down. I preferred to skip this part and safe some time for a different activity. However, if the day is sunny and you feel the desire for a short hike, this is a nice walk before you start the tour.

Read more: Road Trip in the Alps – The High Alpine Road of Austria

The Ice cave of Eisriesenwelt is open to the public until October 26 th 2020 and the opening times are:

• May, June, September and October – 8:15 AM – 3:00 PM
• July and August – 8:15 AM – 15:30 PM

The closest town to Eisriesenwelt is Werfen. This medieval town is known for its castle on top of a hill. However, most travelers visiting Eisriesenwelt come straight from Salzburg (60 km away) or pay a visit to the ice cave as a simple stop on their way to the Alps.

NOTE: The temperature for both ice caves is around -2 °C. It is recommended to wear warm clothes or take warm clothes with you when visiting inside.

Read more: Exploring Saxon Switzerland – Germany’s most beautiful National Park

Eisriesenwelt and Dachstein are simply incredible. I felt fascinated visiting an ice cave in Austria for first time and the tour at Eisriesenwelt was totally worth it. I’m the kind of person who prefers to travel more independently and explore places like this only with a private guide or by myself. However, the information provided and the idea of exploring a cave with a lamp from the 20s really impressed me.

Between a stalactite cave and an ice cave I’m not sure which one I would prefer. They are both fascinating and exciting. Yet, when it comes to an experience that takes you completely out of guard, an ice cave definitely takes the top price.

Furthermore, between a visit to Dachstein or Eisriesenwelt, I would say each experience is completely different and depending on what you are looking for, one of these two caves definitely offers it.

Read more: Which are the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Europe

MY FAVORITE NATIONAL PARKS

Saxon switzerland national park, masai mara natural reserve, bwindi impenetrable forest, white desert protected area, victoria falls national park.

Eisriesenwelt Cave

Tucked away inside the Hochkogel Mountain in Werfen, lies Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in the world. Sprawling an enormous 26 miles (42km) through the Tenneggebirge section of the Alps, Eisriesenwelt aptly translates to “World of the Ice Giants” in English. Only the first 0.62-mile (960m) of the cave is sheathed in ice, though luckily, it is this area in which members of the public are allowed access. With a plethora of spectacular ice figures and frozen waterfalls, Eisriesenwelt is a marvellous spelunking oddity that offers visuals of unsurpassable beauty.

History of Eisriesenwelt

The caves were officially discovered in 1879 by an Austrian natural scientist named Anton Posselt. Although Posselt only dared to venture 200 metres into the cave, he was fascinated by what he had exposed, writing his account in a mountaineering journal. Prior to his discovery, only the residents of Werfen were aware of the caves existence, believing it to be a gateway to Hell. For many years, the caves remained unexplored, but in 1912, Alexander von Mörk led several expeditions, thereby setting a trend for exploration by others.

How was Eisriesenwelt formed?

Through geological and scientific testing on rock and ice deposits, scientists have been able to date the caves at between 50 and 100 million years old, though the ice formations are a far newer phenomenon, originating approximately 1000 years ago. No major event was responsible for the sudden creation of the Eisriesenwelt caves. Rather, the combination of water erosion from the Salzach River and chemical reactions over an extended period of time has been identified as the cause. Fissures and cracks in the limestone rocks manifested and have steadily grown since their formation to ultimately culminate in the ethereal cave labyrinth that is Eisriesenwelt. Whilst the caves continue to expand, progress has been slowed down due to the limited water now in the area. The portion of the cave sheathed in ice remains frozen all year round due to the freezing cold temperatures and ice-cold winds that are omnipresent within the caves.

When is the best time to visit Eisriesenwelt?

The cave is not open to the public during the winter, with the official opening season running from 1st May to 26th October. Ideally, the best time to visit the Eisriesenwelt would be on a hot/sunny day as the stark contrast in weather experienced inside/outside the cave serves to add to the occasion. Moreover, the panoramic view of the Salzach valley can be magnificent if the sky is clear.

How to get to Werfen

The Eisriesenwelt caves are situated in Werfen, a small idyllic village approximately 40km south of Salzburg. The best way to get to Werfen is to drive, taking either the trunk road from Salzburg or the Tauern autobahn (A10). Alternatively, a train service is available to Werfen station.

Things to consider prior to visiting

– Even in summer, the temperature in the cave remains below freezing and thus warm clothing and layering is necessary. – Visitors should possess a reasonable level of physical fitness as reaching the entrance of the cave requires a 124m ascent. Prior to a visit, each individual should take this into account, and make an honest assessment of his or her own physical capability. – Whilst there are no set rules regarding footwear, it is recommended that you wear heavy shoes with good grip, as you will be faced with some narrow, slippery paths. – Both photography and filming are strictly prohibited.

Similar Posts

Plitvice Lakes National Park

With cascading waterfalls hidden among lush forest greenery, it’s easy to see why Croatia’s very own Garden of Eden regularly features in lists of the world’s most beautiful places. At the heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, 16 azure pools spill into each other, connected with rocky outcrops dripping in moss. The tallest waterfall,…

Sognefjord is the largest fjord in Norway and the second largest in the world. The fjords sheer cliffs run for 200km inland until it reaches the Jostedalsbreen glacier and the Jotunheimen National Park & Mountains. The area is excellent of hiking, watersports, cycling, and summer skiing. It is serviced by plenty of towns and villages…

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss is a tiered waterfall, with a total height of 105 feet (32m). Born from the Hvita River, the crevice is hidden from sight at close range, making it appear as though the river simply vanishes into the earth. There’s a famous story about a girl who walked barefoot from Reykjavic to Gullfoss in order…

Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a vast and impressive expanse of closely packed hexagonal basalt columns approximately 40,000 in number that poke out of the Irish Sea. Formed as a result of intense volcanic activity, it lies on the north coast of the County of Antrim, Northern Ireland. The symmetrical and unique rock formations have mesmerised…

Krimml Waterfalls (Krimmler Wasserfalle)

When it comes to waterfalls, it seems that size really matters. The Rhine Falls may claim the crown in terms of water volume but when it comes to the measurement of the total vertical drop, Austria’s Krimml Waterfalls (Krimmler Wasserfalle) indisputably rank as Europe’s largest. Located in the High Tauern National Park near the village…

Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge is one of Europe’s most beautiful river canyons. Situated in Provence Southeastern France, its name is derived from the striking turquoise color of the Verdon River that flows along its picturesque 25 kilometre (15.5 mile) length. Reaching a depth of 700 meters (2296ft) at numerous points, the Verdon Gorge (‘Gorges du Verdon‘…

yeah sounds interesting, used this for an Austrian assighnment

I have an assignment at school in which I am studying this cave to then recreate a model of it. Part of the assignment is to study the wildlife in the ecosystem you have chosen. I was wondering what, if any, animals reptiles or mammals live in this cave? I can’t seem to find any organisms that live in it. Thanks

I visited the ice caves in June and asked if they’d ever found remains of animals. They said that animal bones had only been found once, those of a bear, but said he had probably gone in to hibernate and either froze to death, or got trapped by fresh ice that formed over the winter while he was asleep. They said the below freezing temperatures were not conducive to life if any kind be able to survive and grow in the caves.

Beautiful World, thanks so much for the post.Really thank you! Great.

just love it!!!!!im a kid 10 fair

Thank you all for this wonderful and interesting in formation. I only stumbled into this website because I had a cave project and randomly got this one. Honestly a pretty cool cave.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Engineering Geology
• Field Methods
• Historical Geology
• Hydrogeology
• Earth Interior
• Geologic Time Scale
• Plate Tectonics
• Geologic Lists
• Geological Wonders
• Igneous Rocks
• Extrusive Igneous Rocks
• Intrusive Igneous Rocks
• Metamorphic Rocks
• Foliated Metamorphic Rocks
• Sedimentary Rocks
• Metamorphic rocks
• Borate minerals
• Carbonates Minerals
• Halide Minerals
• Native Mineral
• Physical Properties
• Optical Properties
• Earthquakes
• Volcanic Eruption
• Privacy Policy

Eisriesenwelt, Austria

Eisriesenwelt is an extraordinary natural wonder located in the Tennengebirge mountain range near Werfen, Salzburg, Austria. Known as the “World of the Ice Giants,” it is the largest ice cave on the planet and offers a truly enchanting experience for visitors.

The cave was formed over millions of years through a combination of geological processes. It began with the gradual dissolution of limestone by water, followed by the freezing and thawing of the ice inside the cave. This unique combination of factors has resulted in the creation of stunning ice formations, including icicles, stalactites, and stalagmites, that adorn the cave’s interior.

Eisriesenwelt stretches over a vast distance of approximately 42 kilometers (about 26 miles). However, only the first kilometer (approximately 0.6 miles) of the cave is accessible to tourists through guided tours. These tours typically last about an hour and offer a mesmerizing journey through narrow passages and grand chambers filled with glittering ice formations.

Visiting Eisriesenwelt is a thrilling adventure, but it requires some preparation. Due to the perpetually cold temperatures inside the cave, even during the summer months, visitors are advised to dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear to ensure a comfortable and safe exploration.

The cave is open to the public from May to October, as the winter months bring hazardous conditions and ice buildup, making it unsafe for visitors. Access to Eisriesenwelt is made easier by taking a cable car from the nearby town of Werfen, followed by a short hike to reach the cave’s entrance.

Eisriesenwelt’s discovery dates back to 1879 when a natural scientist named Anton von Posselt-Czorich first explored its frozen wonders. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination, drawing nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers from all corners of the globe.

For those seeking to immerse themselves in the magic of nature’s icy masterpiece, Eisriesenwelt in Austria offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you in awe of the power and beauty of our planet’s geological wonders.

Formation of Eisriesenwelt

Caves and karst landscapes, ice formation and glacier dynamics, geological history and dating.

The formation of Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in the world, is a fascinating geological process that occurred over millions of years. It involves a combination of factors, including the presence of limestone, water, and the unique climate of the region.

• Limestone Formation : The first step in the creation of Eisriesenwelt began millions of years ago when the region was covered by a shallow sea. Over time, the remains of marine organisms, such as shells and coral , accumulated and compressed to form limestone deposits . The Tennengebirge mountains, where Eisriesenwelt is located, are primarily composed of limestone.
• Erosion and Caves Formation : The limestone is soluble in slightly acidic water, and as rainwater and melted snow percolated through the cracks and fissures in the limestone rocks , it slowly dissolved the rock over millennia. This process, known as chemical weathering or erosion, carved out a network of underground passages and chambers, forming caves.
• Freezing and Thawing : The unique climatic conditions in the region play a crucial role in the formation of Eisriesenwelt’s icy features. The cave’s entrance is at a relatively low elevation where warm air can easily enter during the day. As the warm air rises into the cave, it melts some of the ice formations inside.
• Ice Accumulation : However, during the night, the temperatures drop significantly, causing the melted water to freeze once again. Over time, this cycle of melting and refreezing contributes to the accumulation of ice within the cave.
• Wind Patterns : Additionally, the flow of air inside the cave, caused by temperature differences between the outside and the interior, contributes to the shaping of the ice formations. Wind can polish and sculpt the ice, leading to the stunning and unique shapes found within Eisriesenwelt.

The combination of these geological and climatic factors over millions of years has resulted in the creation of Eisriesenwelt’s breathtaking ice formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, ice columns, and other ice sculptures. The process is ongoing, with the cave’s features continually evolving as a result of the interplay between water, ice, and wind.

Caves and karst landscapes are closely related geological features that result from the dissolution of soluble rocks, such as limestone, gypsum , or dolomite , by water over long periods of time. Let’s explore each of them in more detail:

• Caves : Caves are natural underground voids or cavities formed by the chemical weathering or dissolution of soluble rocks. The most common type of cave is limestone cave, which forms in regions where limestone is prevalent. Other types of caves can also form in different types of soluble rocks.

The process of cave formation begins with rainwater or groundwater absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or from decaying organic matter. This turns the water slightly acidic. As this acidic water percolates through the fractures, joints, and bedding planes of the soluble rock, it dissolves the rock, enlarging the cavities over time.

Caves can vary significantly in size, ranging from small, narrow passages to massive underground chambers. They often feature unique formations such as stalactites (icicle-shaped formations hanging from the cave ceiling), stalagmites (icicle-shaped formations growing from the cave floor), and other speleothems ( mineral deposits ) that form as the dissolved minerals in the water are deposited inside the cave.

Caves can also contain valuable scientific and archaeological information, as they sometimes preserve fossils , ancient artifacts, and evidence of past climates.

• Karst Landscapes : Karst landscapes are distinctive geological formations that result from the dissolution of soluble rocks on the Earth’s surface. These landscapes are characterized by sinkholes , sinking streams, disappearing rivers, underground drainage systems, and, of course, caves.

The term “karst” originates from the Karst Plateau in Slovenia, which is a region well-known for its extensive limestone formations and karst features. However, karst landscapes can be found in many regions around the world.

The dissolution of soluble rocks creates a unique topography with sinkholes, where the ground collapses into underground voids, and sinking streams or disappearing rivers, where surface water flows into underground channels. As a result, karst landscapes often have complex underground drainage systems.

In addition to caves, karst landscapes can also feature other surface features like dolines (shallow depressions), poljes (large flat valleys or plains), and karst towers (steep limestone pillars).

Karst landscapes are not only fascinating geological formations but also valuable ecosystems. They often provide important habitats for specialized plants and animals, as well as sources of freshwater for human populations.

Both caves and karst landscapes are exceptional natural wonders that continue to intrigue scientists, explorers, and nature enthusiasts alike. They remind us of the profound forces of water and time that shape the Earth’s surface and create some of the most beautiful and enigmatic landscapes on our planet.

Ice Formation:

The process of ice formation in Eisriesenwelt begins with the accumulation of snowfall in the surrounding mountains during winter. Over time, this snow accumulates and is compressed by the weight of additional snowfall, transforming it into firn, a dense, granular type of snow. As more snow accumulates and compresses, the firn undergoes further changes and slowly transforms into glacial ice.

During the summer months, warm air enters the cave during the day, causing some of the ice formations inside to melt. However, during the colder nights, the temperatures drop significantly, and the melted water refreezes, contributing to the gradual growth and maintenance of the ice formations within the cave. This cycle of melting and refreezing, along with the unique geological features of the cave, plays a crucial role in the formation and preservation of Eisriesenwelt’s stunning ice sculptures.

Glacier Dynamics:

While Eisriesenwelt is not a glacier itself, the concept of glacier dynamics is essential to understanding the formation and behavior of glaciers in general. Glaciers are large masses of ice that move under their own weight and are formed by the accumulation and compaction of snow over long periods.

Glacier dynamics are influenced by several factors:

• Accumulation and Ablation: The growth of a glacier depends on the balance between snowfall (accumulation) and ice loss due to melting, sublimation, and calving (ablation). In areas where snowfall exceeds ice loss, glaciers advance, whereas in regions where ice loss is greater, glaciers retreat.
• Basal Sliding: Glaciers can slide over their underlying bedrock or sediment due to the pressure of the ice and the presence of meltwater at the glacier’s base. This sliding contributes to the glacier’s overall movement.
• Internal Deformation: Glacial ice behaves like a very viscous fluid, and under the immense pressure of its own weight, it can deform and flow like a slow-moving river. This internal deformation is another significant factor in glacier dynamics.
• Glacier Terminology: Glaciers have specific zones, including the accumulation zone (where snow accumulates and turns into ice) and the ablation zone (where ice is lost due to melting and calving).

Understanding glacier dynamics is crucial for studying the behavior of glaciers and their response to changes in climate and environmental conditions. Glacier retreat, which has been observed in many parts of the world, is a significant concern as it affects freshwater resources, sea-level rise, and various ecosystems.

Eisriesenwelt, being a cave, has a geological history that is intricately tied to the geological processes that formed the cave system and the surrounding landscape. However, it’s important to note that the geological history of Eisriesenwelt is different from the geological history of the entire region in which it is located.

Geological History of Eisriesenwelt:

The geological history of Eisriesenwelt begins millions of years ago during the formation of the Tennengebirge mountain range. The mountains are primarily composed of limestone, a type of sedimentary rock that is susceptible to dissolution by slightly acidic water.

The process of cave formation, known as karstification, involves the chemical weathering and erosion of limestone by water over extended periods. As rainwater and melted snow percolated through the fractures and joints of the limestone rocks, they gradually dissolved the rock, creating underground voids and passages that eventually formed the cave system of Eisriesenwelt.

The caves would have initially started as small passages and chambers, and over time, through continuous dissolution and enlargement, they grew to the impressive size seen today. The formation of stalactites, stalagmites, and other ice formations inside the cave is a result of the freezing and thawing of water that seeps into the cave from the surrounding ice and snow.

Geological Dating of Eisriesenwelt:

In terms of geological dating, it’s important to clarify that the age of the cave itself is not precisely determined. Absolute dating methods, such as radiometric dating, are typically used to determine the age of rocks or minerals, but they are not directly applicable to dating the formation of caves like Eisriesenwelt.

However, the surrounding geological formations and layers can be dated using various methods, such as radiometric dating of volcanic rocks or the study of the fossils found in sedimentary layers. These techniques allow geologists to establish a broader geological history of the region in which Eisriesenwelt is situated.

In the case of Eisriesenwelt, the cave is likely to be relatively young in geological terms, probably formed over tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of years. The cave’s formations and the age of the surrounding geological features provide valuable information about the dynamic geological processes that have shaped the region over geological time.

Overall, while precise dating of Eisriesenwelt itself may not be possible, its geological history is an integral part of the larger geological story of the Tennengebirge region and the fascinating karst landscape that has evolved over millions of years.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Mount Rushmore, USA

Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada

Mount Ararat, Turkey: Story of Noah’s Ark

The Hoba Meteorite, Namibia: Largest Known Meteorite on Earth

The Willamette Meteorite: Largest Meteorites Ever Found in USA

El Zacatón Sinkhole, Mexico

Recent posts.

Pinfire Opal

Turquoise Howlite

Atlantasite (Tasmanite)

Eisriesenwelt – The Longest Ice Cave in the World Close to Salzburg

When Is the Best Time

The longest ice cave in the world is located 50 km south of Salzburg in Austria, close to the famous Dachstein. On the steep southern slopes of the Hochkogel mountain is the entrance located to the ice cave Eisriesenwelten which means the World of Ice Giants.

The cave has been a protected natural monument since 26.6.1928. It is a popular attraction and the advantage you do not care about the weather for this breathtaking experience. Each visit is different and unique depending on the lightning by your guide and the changing ice formations from meltwater. 

I assure you the cave will enchant you, and you will leave everyday life behind in a second. I will answer all questions which may come up and all you need to know before you visit this unique ice cave in Austria.

For an overview of all topics, check out my Table of Contents

How to get to Eisriesenwelt – Ice Cave?

A 6 km steep winding mountain road with a max of 21% gradient leads from the village Werfen to the visitor and ticket centre. There is plenty of parking in front of and within 200 m distance.  Parking Ice Cave Google Maps

First, you must enter the information and ticket centre building to get access to the wide and well-maintained walking path. Please, check your time slot and access the walking path in the half-hour window mentioned on your ticket (online booking). 

The path offers breathtaking views of the opposite mountain range. Depending on the weather, you can walk along the viewing points path or through a tunnel. After 15-20 minutes, you reach the cable car station. Up to 18 people have space inside.

The cable car leaves every ten minutes, but in the peak season, you may line up to continue your journey. Afterwards, another well-secured path awaits you - with avalanche galleries and half-tunnels to protect you from rockslides. This part is called “Beißzangensteig” (Pliers Path).

It is excellent integrated into the landscape and makes this walk much safer. You can already see the huge opening of the cave from a distance. At the beginning of the huge cave entrance, you are able to sit and rest to wait for access.

• Walking time and cable car 45 minutes during quieter times and more than one hour in the peak season.
• Tours are offered in German and English.
• Duration Guided Tour: 1-1.15 hour
• Length: The first part, about one kilometre long, is open to the public.
• Dogs on leashes are allowed in the ice cave.
• Ice Cave Attractions and Elevations Map
• Werfen, Mountains, and Ice Cave Location Map

Photographer Tip

Photographing in the cave is prohibited for safety reasons. If visiting the cave at the beginning or end of the season and during less busy days, it is permitted to take pictures. That is why we visited the cave on its first opening day.

Avoiding Crowds

Up to 2.500 people visit the giant ice cave daily. The season begins in May, and from mid-September to October, it is less crowded, and tickets are also available at the ticket centre. Like elsewhere, mid-week is quieter than the weekends. Consider there are several bank holidays in May in Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands. Many spend their vacation or a long weekend here in May.

The first and last tours of the day are usually quieter.

Access With Disabilities

The path to the entrance is easy, but inside the cave, you must ascend and descend 1400 steps on the one-kilometre-long guided tour. This tour may also not suit people with cardiovascular disease.

Opening Hours EisRiesenWelt – Ice Cave 2024

• The giant ice cave is open from 1st May until 31st.October 2024.
• Information and Ticket Centre 8.30 am – 3 pm
• Cable Car Rides every ten minutes 8.45 am – 5 pm
• Guide Ice Cave Tours: From 9.30 am until 3 pm every half an hour, and last tour: 3:45 pm.
• Closed in the winter.

Why is the Cave Closed in Winter?

The cave is closed for safety reasons. The road to the information centre may be covered in snow, and so are the walking paths. There is also a risk of avalanches in the winter, and shorter daylight hours occur. Getting to the ice cave requires roughly 45 minutes to one hour.

How Was the Ice Cave Formed?

Ice layers that appear blue, like in the picture above, are compressed ice because there are only a few air pockets. If the ice freezes slowly, the air has time to get out.

The EisRiesenWelt is located in the Tennegebirge, the northern limestone Alps. It is a karstified mountain range with more than 1000 caves. There are two reasons for this high number of caves: first, the Eurasian and African continental plates are pushing against each other, and second, this type of rock is prone to erosion. The rain washes out the cracks and crevices in the limestone, which has been going on for millions of years.

Small cracks become cavities, and more water enters, causing continuous erosion. This process is intensified by a low concentration of carbon dioxide in the rainwater. This has a slightly acidic effect that can dissolve lime. Thus, crevices become cavities, collapse and larger and larger spaces; caves and passages are formed.

Why is There Ice in the Cave?

• The altitude is crucial. Ice caves only form between 1600 and 1680 meters above sea level. This is the climatic zone for ice formations. The entrance is located at 1,641 m. If higher, it would be too cold, and lower below 1,600, this amount of ice would not be able to form. During the cave tour, you will gain more than 100 meters elevation until a height of 1,775 m above sea level, which is free of ice.
• Another factor is the structure of the cave. The entrance is located at a lower level and connected with ceiling openings. This fact allows the air to circulate in winter and cools the temperature in the cave below zero degrees. In spring, meltwater penetrates through the porous rock and forms breathtaking ice sculptures. Due to this kind of air circulation, it is also called a dynamic ice cave.
• In order to preserve the cold and the natural spectacle for longer, the attached door to the cave is closed in spring and summer. In winter, it is open to allow the cold to enter. 
• In spring, snow melts, and the water enters the cave through numerous crevices and cracks, turning into ice in myriad formations.

At another nearby ice cave, the entrance was extended at the beginning of the 20th century. This cave was famous for ice skating at high elevations, and to give visitors easier access, the hole was blasted with dynamite. This greatly impacted the climate, and the ice lake disappeared.

Entrance Fee and Tip

You can either purchase your ticket at the information and ticket centre or book it online. During the peak season in summer, I highly recommend online booking to avoid disappointment. Usually, the cave is fully booked in summer. Online tickets are slightly cheaper than the ones bought on-site. No Parking fees and no fees for the cable car.

• Price for adults 38€ online
• Teenagers (age 15-17) 27€ online
• Children (age 5 - 14) 19€ online
• Online Ticket Booking Link

Is it Worth Visiting the Ice Cave Eisriesenwelt?

Yes, it is the most beautiful cave we have ever been to. Our nephew Rodrigo put it in a nutshell: It is like entering another world.  You immediately leave everything behind and are fully focused on the guide and tour. They preserve the cave's character by using carbide lamps and magnesium light. There is no artificial lighting. Without these two illumination sources, it is pitch dark inside.

They use the same lighting as in the past, but today, the cave is equipped with well-maintained boardwalks and stairs to overcome more than one hundred meters of elevation. This cave will leave you in awe. IMO, the entrance price is absolutely fair. Parking is free, and the cable car ride is included in the price. This is a very well-thought-out concept.

  Packing List and Outfit Tips for Eisriesenwelt

• The temperature is constantly below 0°C/ 32°F. It is not such a shocking difference in May and October, but it easily tops 30°C/ 86°F outside in the hot summer sun. You need a warm jacket, long trousers, maybe gloves, and a beanie inside the cave. Be prepared to walk one hour through the chilly cave.
• Sun protection: sunscreen , especially for your face, hat, and sunglasses. I use my special SPF 50+ sunscreen for exposed areas like my arms and face. I never got sunburnt since I used this cream.
• A bottle of water for the walk. However, you can get beverages, snacks and meals in the information centre after the cable car ride at Wimmerhütte and Dr Oedl-Haus at Achselkopf Mountain.

Eisriesenwelt Accident

In July 2020, a 14-year-old boy was fatally hit in a rock fall. Safety is a top priority here. After the accident, the path and the Eisriesenwelt were closed for three weeks to erect a five-metre high and 42-metre wide protective net over the accident site shortly before the cave. But a remaining risk always exists. Therefore, longer-term measures such as completing the avalanche gallery, new tunnels or half-tunnels are still being considered. We felt very safe along the walking path.

Facts and History Ice Cave Werfen – EisRiesenWelt

• Longest Ice Cave in the world – 42 km long.
• The oldest layer of the ice is about one thousand years old.
• This was once the highest skating ground in Europe, where pair skaiters trained for the Olympics in the 30s.
• You will wonder about the strong wind at the entrance/exit of the cave. The significant temperature difference causes this.
• The cave entrance cannot be seen from the valley, one of the reasons for the late discovery.
• Discovered by the naturalist Anton von Posselt-Csorich and mountain guide and hunter Eckschlager in October 1879.

• However, it took another 33 years until the painter and enthusiastic speleologist Alexander von Mörk founded the Salzburg cave association and explored this cave together with Benno Pehany in 1912.
• Mörk has contributed a significant part to the exploration. He was aware of the significance of this natural wonder, and at that time, he already stated that this was the largest ice cave in the world. He named it Eisriesenwelt, which means the World of ice giants.
• Alexander von Mörk gave all ice formations names from the Norse saga world.
• Due to the outbreak of World War I in 1914, a large part of the expedition crew was sent to the front. Mörk and Rihl did not survive. Alexander Mörk wished to receive an urn grave in his beloved cave. He died in Galicia on October 22, 1914.
• It was not until September 1919 that the Oedl brothers resumed the exploration. They made a very accurate measurement despite the most challenging conditions. Narrow corridors were measured with a compass. This meant that only brass lamps could be used, and ice picks had to be put far away so that the magnetic needles of the measuring instruments were not irritated.
• The first official opening for the front part was already on 26.9.1920. One year later, a walking path to the cave entrance was developed. A shelter was also built in 1924, and a continuous wooden stairway was already installed in the ice cave for better public accessibility. Dr Friedrich Oertl, after whom the refuge was named, was responsible for the difficult development work.
• As early as 1920, the first pictures of the ice giants were taken, which made the cave immediately famous.
• Until today, numerous side passages and labyrinths of the ice giant world are still being explored.

Where to Eat and Sleep Nearby?

By chance, we ended up at the Reitsamerhof. The staff was super accommodating; the food was delicious and freshly prepared. The men had roast pork with dumplings and salad, and I had wild garlic dumplings with fresh vegetables. For dessert, we shared a delicious apple strudel with vanilla ice cream. The beds were super comfy, and our room had a balcony. The hotel is fantastic and located in such a beautiful landscape.

Another nearby attraction is this more than 1000-year-old fortification, which belongs to Salzburg. 

• Open daily from May to September
• Shorter opening hours in April and October
• Closed in winter

Best Months to Visit

Related Topics

Location and Tips

I will give you all the important details for an exceptional visit. I will let you know what to wear, all about the hike and tour through the longest ice cave in the world, why we were able to take pictures and footage and the best time. Are you curious about the history of this cave? I'll give you all the information and exciting facts about the more than 41 km long ice cave. The giant ice cave is far from being fully explored, and more passages are suspected as above the "Mörk Dome", named after the cave's discoverer. This is a large hall with a huge ice formation that formed from meltwater from below and above, stalagmites and stalactites. 

Here, the famous climbers Rudolf Hauser and Georg Sautner climbed under the most difficult conditions to figure out if there is access to the outside from up there, i.e., an opening. This high amount of water or ice must come from somewhere. Ice further up the shaft, however, stopped them. The cave also keeps this secret to itself further on.

We are passionate travellers, have been married for 25 years, and we love discovering hidden gems around the globe. I am passionate about sharing some of the most beautiful places in the world with you, but I can't live from my work, and we have regular jobs, too.

Do you like my Giant Ice Cave Guide? Please share it with your friends and on social media, subscribe to our   YouTube Channel . That would already help a lot.

Do You Like to Support Me - It's easy; use the Paypal Button below 😍

If you wish to use any of my photos, contact me, but I will take action against picture theft. Why do I write this here? Hundreds of my pictures are used worldwide without any credit, nor did they get my permission. I don’t mind giving permission, but I want to get asked for it and to be mentioned. The World Wide web changed a lot, and rewriting honest travel content is the new business for many fake travel websites. Do you wish to know more about this topic and how to unmask such websites quickly? Read my article “ The Truth About Fake Travel Websites and Picture Theft .”