The magical world of the ice giants in Werfen
The Eisriesenwelt in Werfen is the largest ice cave in the world and a spectacular natural wonder in the Austrian Alps. This underground ice world fascinates with breathtaking ice formations and impressive cave structures.
Short info:
- What is the Eisriesenwelt? The largest ice cave in the world with impressive ice formations.
- Where is it? Eishöhlenstraße 30, 5450 Werfen, Austria.
- How do I get there? By car or public transport to Werfen, then by cable car and a total of 40 minutes walk to the cave. We describe the exact route below.
- Parking: Free parking at the valley station of the cable car.
- How much time should I plan? Total time for visit and tour is about 3-4 hours.
- Suitable for children? Yes, but the visit requires a certain level of physical fitness.
- Entrance fees? Adults approx. 40€ for cable car and entrance, child (5-14 years) approx. 20€, under 14 free. Here you can find all pricesIt is recommended to buy tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times.
- opening hours? Daily from May 1st to October 31st, 2024; Ticket office (visitor center) 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Cable car (uphill ride to the cave) 8:45 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.; Cave (guided tour) 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
arrival
By car You can reach Werfen by car via the A10 Tauern Autobahn, exit 34-Paß Lueg. The address is Eishöhlenstraße 30, 5450 Werfen, Austria. There are four parking lots in total, although the first parking lot often has free spaces in the afternoon. It is only a few steps from the parking lot to the visitor center. Public If you are travelling by public transport, there is a paid bus service from Werfen to the Eisriesenwelt car park/visitor centre several times a day. The bus departs from Werfen train station at 8:18 a.m., 10:18 a.m., 12:18 p.m. and 2:18 p.m. Outside of these times, transfers are offered every 25 minutes from the Gries bus departure point, about a five-minute walk from the train station. Groups should reserve in advance. The bus stops just a few metres from the visitor centre. The descents from the visitor centre also take place approximately every 25 minutes in the high season, and every hour at the 32nd minute in the pre- and post-season. The last descent is at 5:32 p.m. If a tour takes longer, we will ensure that you still get back to the valley safely.
How do I get there from the visitor center?
From the visitor center where you buy your ticket or Online Ticket (cheaper online!), you walk for about 20 minutes towards the cable car. After about three minutes the path splits: you can either take the panoramic path or the direct route to the gondola through a tunnel. The gondola ride takes about three minutes. From the mountain station you have to walk another 20 minutes to the cave.
General details and interesting facts about the cave
The Ice Giant World stretches over 42 kilometers, of which only the first few kilometers are covered with ice and are accessible to visitors. The cave was discovered in 1879 by Anton Posselt, a naturalist from Salzburg. However, it was not until 1920 that it was opened up and made accessible to the public by Alexander von Mörk, a cave explorer from Salzburg. When he died in the First World War, his wish to be buried in the cave was granted. On the tour you pass the gravestone.
The tour through the cave
The tour begins at the entrance hall of the cave, where an experienced guide will introduce you to the history and geology of the Eisriesenwelt. The path through the cave leads along well-secured paths and stairs. In total, around 1,400 steps must be overcome, 700 of which are up and 700 down. The tour is available in both German and English and offers interesting insights into the formation and exploration of the cave. During the tour, the cave is only lit with carbide lamps, which makes the atmosphere even more mystical. It is important that you are reasonably physically fit, as the path through the cave can be steep and strenuous in places.
What to see in the cave
The Eisriesenwelt offers a variety of impressive ice formations and spectacular cave structures. The most notable sights include:
- Posselthalle: This large hall was named after the explorer Anton von Posselt. In its center is a huge stalagmite, which is the highlight of this formation.
- Ice Palace (Ice Palace): One of the most fascinating chambers of the cave, completely covered in ice and surrounded by majestic ice curtains.
- Great Ice Wall: A massive, 75-meter-high ice formation that impressively displays the sheer size and power of nature.
- Hymir's Castle: A gigantic ice sculpture reminiscent of a fortress and named after the Nordic giant Hymir.
- Frigg's Veil: A series of stalactites hanging from the ceiling like a curtain and named after the Norse goddess Frigg.
- Alexander von Mörk Cathedral: The largest room in the cave open to the public, named after the pioneer of speleology Alexander von Mörk.
- ice elephant: A special formation known as the "Ice Elephant" due to its shape. This natural ice structure looks very similar to an elephant and is one of the most curious sights in the cave.
Tips for preparation
As the temperatures in the cave are below freezing all year round, it is important to bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes. Gloves and a hat are also recommended to protect yourself from the cold. The paths inside the cave can be slippery, so good hiking boots are essential. It is also advisable to drink plenty of fluids and take a little refreshment with you before your visit, as the walk to and in the cave can be physically demanding. The Eisriesenwelt is also suitable for children, but they should be at least 5 years old and have a certain amount of stamina - otherwise you will probably have to carry them. It is advisable to plan around 3-4 hours in total for a visit to the cave, including travel there, cable car ride and hike to the cave.
gastronomy
In the visitor center there is the YGGDRASIL Bistro, where you can refresh yourself before or after your visit. The Dr. Oedl House at the cable car mountain station offers a very nice view. Tip: if you want to eat something, be there before 4 p.m., otherwise the kitchen closes. Unfortunately we weren't able to try the food, but it looked pretty tasty. www.oedlhaus.at
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