Table of Contents
Historical Significance
Until the late 1800s, Eisriesenwelt Cave remained a hidden secret, largely due to its remote position in the lofty mountains and a general lack of interest in spelunking during that era.
The first known exploration occurred in 1879, when Anton von Posselt-Czorich, a naturalist from Salzburg, ventured approximately 200 meters into the cave’s shadowy depths, marking its official discovery.
He documented his findings in the Alpenverein magazine the following year, yet the cave slipped back into obscurity.
Post-World War I, the cave’s extensive network of passageways began to be charted by intrepid explorers like Friedrich and Robert Oedl, and Walter Czernig. This period marked the beginning of recognition for Eisriesenwelt’s potential as a tourist attraction.
By 1920, efforts to make the cave more accessible were underway, as evidenced by the construction of an “explorer’s hut” and rudimentary climbing aids within and leading to the cave.
By 1924, the icy section of Eisriesenwelt Cave was navigable via rudimentary wooden pathways. The following year saw the construction of a spacious refuge adjacent to the explorer’s hut, named to honor Friedrich Oedl for his dedication and extensive contributions to the development of Eisriesenwelt.
For nearly three and a half decades, the only access to the cave was an on-foot journey. However, in 1953, the introduction of the rugged, initially single-lane Eisriesenweltstrasse offered a more adventurous route.
By 1955, this journey was further revolutionized with the launch of a cable car system. This new mode of transport efficiently conquered the steepest part of the previous trek, elevating travelers from 1084 meters to 1586 meters in mere minutes.
Best time to visit & Opening times
Seasonal Insights:
Eisriesenwelt Cave welcomes visitors exclusively from May through October, as these warmer, sunnier days provide the optimal conditions for exploration. The cave remains closed during the winter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience during its accessible months.
Weekday vs. Weekend Visits:
Weekdays promise a more intimate experience with minimal hustle, whereas weekends buzz with the energy of more explorers. Both offer distinct atmospheres; your choice depends on your preference for solitude or vibrancy.
Summary:
Opening times
Daily from the 1st of May to the 31st of October
Cash desk (visitor’s center)
8.30 – 15.00
Cable car (up to the cave)
8.45 – 15.20
Cave (tour)
9.30 – 15.45
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.
Essential Rules & Regulations
To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests and staff, as well as the preservation of the facilities, the following visitor guidelines are in place:
Admission rights are at the discretion of the management.
Compliance with staff directives is mandatory. Disruptive or offensive conduct may lead to denial of entry or immediate termination of the visit and access to the remaining areas.
Tickets must be presented and retained throughout the visit.
Bags and backpacks are subject to security checks at the cave entrance.
Large items or excessive baggage are not permitted inside the caves. Please consult with staff for guidance.
Consumption of food and beverages is not allowed inside the cave. Dispose of litter responsibly before entry.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is prohibited inside the caves.
Geological formations must not be touched or disturbed to preserve their integrity.
Pets are allowed. Eisriesenwelt welcomes furry companions, yet it’s advisable to reconsider bringing your dog if navigating the numerous steps might pose a challenge for them.
The tour involves stairs (1400). We advise against this journey for individuals who face challenges with mobility or walking.
Climbing over barriers, running, or blocking pathways is strictly forbidden.
Maintain a respectful volume and behavior to ensure a pleasant experience for all.
- Physical requirements:
Your visit to the cave involves an ascent of 134 meters, akin to scaling the staircase of a 40-floor skyscraper. Each visitor must assess their ability to undertake this climb.
The awe-inspiring ice sculptures and grand scale of the cave are a rewarding sight for the effort. Tours are tailored to the pace of each visitor group. Yet, individuals with significant mobility limitations or heart conditions are recommended to consider their health before planning a visit. Regrettably, the cave pathways are not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s appropriate and safe behavior throughout the premises.
Note: Parents must judge whether their kids can handle the chilly conditions of the cave walk. Often, children aged 3 to 4 find it challenging. Ensuring adequate warm attire is key.
Be aware that from the parking area to the cable car is a 20-minute trek, followed by another 20 minutes from the cable car stop to the cave entrance, plus 1400 steps to ascend inside the cave.
Parents with young children in strollers should ensure their little ones are dressed warmly enough to handle over an hour in temperatures below freezing!
For a more comfortable experience, children should wear sturdy footwear, hats, and gloves if available.
Dress Code/Clothing
Shoes must be worn at all times.
Shirtless entry is not permitted.
Transparent clothing is not allowed.
Clothing that may impede movement or pose a hazard during the visit is prohibited.
Notes:
Exploring the ice cave is especially delightful during warm, sunny days. The breathtaking panoramic vista from the cave’s entrance, overlooking the Salzach Valley and the snow-capped Hohe Tauern Mountains, is truly spectacular.
Ensure you have solid sports shoes or robust footwear, along with warm outerwear for your visit. In warmer weather, it’s best to don anoraks or jackets just at the cave’s entrance. Hence, carrying a rucksack is highly advisable!
It’s advisable to wear robust footwear and dress warmly. Despite summer conditions, temperatures often remain below 0 degrees.
Photography:
Due to logistical considerations, They regretfully prohibit photography and filming inside the cave.
Tickets & Prices useful tips
Adult ticket pricing applies to those aged 18 and above; youth rates are for ages 15 to 18, and children from 5 to 14 years.
While online booking offers a 2-4 euro discount and can help skip long lines, it doesn’t include a guided tour. For a comprehensive experience, consider booking a complete guided tour.
Find more information on guided tours here.
How to Get there
Numerous transport methods are available for your journey, including personal cars, public transit options like buses and taxis, as well as agency-planned excursions.
Navigating Your Way to Eisriesenwelt
Beginning at Werfen village, a 5 km smooth, toll-free asphalt road winds its way to the Eisriesenwelt parking area, adjacent to the visitor center. During peak season in July and August, or on rainy days, parking spots fill up rapidly. If this occurs, a shuttle service from Werfen is available to accommodate visitors.
While motorhomes are technically allowed on the mountain road leading to the Eisriesenwelt visitor center, it’s not advised due to the challenging steep roads and complex parking scenarios. We recommend parking your motorhome in the complimentary car park near the local shuttle bus stop. Please note, authorities do not permit driving up with caravans.
Motorcyclists often find the winding access road to be exhilarating. Yet, we urge you to exercise due caution and care! At the visitor center, there’s dedicated motorcycle parking and lockers for storing helmets.
The bus starting point in Werfen, situated right on the access route, offers facilities to park bicycles and store luggage. From this location, you can catch the shuttle bus service (details below) that will transport you straight to the Eisriesenwelt parking area and visitor center.
Marked hiking paths from Werfen and Tenneck lead adventurers to Eisriesenwelt. The ascent from the valley to the cable car station typically spans 1.5 to 2 hours. For those opting to tackle the cable car route on foot (a challenging mountain climb suited only for the experienced), factor in an extra 1.5 hours for the upward journey.
Keep in mind: The trail from the cable car to the mountain station traverses a secure alpine path in a high-exposure area. A head for heights and proper hiking gear are essential prerequisites!
Multiple daily bus services run from Werfen to the Eisriesenwelt parking area and visitor center.
Departures from Werfen station are scheduled at 08:18, 10:18, 12:18, and 14:18. Outside these hours, a shuttle operates every 25 minutes from the Gries bus stop, a brief 5-minute stroll from the train station, located right on the route to Eisriesenwelt. Group reservations are recommended in advance.
During peak season, buses from the visitor center back to the valley run approximately every 25 minutes. In the pre-season and off-season, this frequency changes to once an hour, departing at 32 minutes past each hour.
The final descent is scheduled for 17:32. Should your tour conclude after this time, arrangements will be made to ensure a safe bus journey back to the valley.
For car rental services to enhance your holiday or for a day trip in the area, you can find comprehensive rental information here.
Explore the Eisriesenwelt Cave (Ice Cave) with our recommended range of guided tours and ticket options.
For more information: Click here
The Tour & the Caves
Peeking into the Cave: Journey to the Entrance
Embark on a virtual trek to Eisriesenwelt and catch a glimpse of the enthralling expedition ahead. An interactive guide escorts you from the valley base to the gateway of the world’s largest ice cave, revealing its deepest, shadowy mysteries. The sheer splendor of the Eisriesenwelt unfolds in its full glory when witnessed firsthand.
500 m
Werfen
From Werfen village, a 5 km asphalt road leads directly to the Eisriesenwelt parking area near the visitor center
Salzburg
A 5 km toll-free journey on an asphalt road leads to the destination
1000 m
Visitor Center
Ticket counter hours are from 8:30 to 15:00. Expect a high volume of visitors, particularly during peak times from 10:00 to 14:00
Salzburg
The journey from the visitor center to the cable car valley station, along a gently ascending gravel path, takes about 20 minutes on foot
1.575 m
Cable Car
The cable car service typically starts at 08:45 and operates at least every 30 minutes, with additional rides available as needed
Salzburg
3-minute cable car tour
1.641 m
Route to the Cave entrance
This path, while slightly inclined, is well-maintained and straightforward, making the ascent to the caves a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors
Salzburg
The brief walk, taking around 20 minutes, is comfortably manageable for those in good health
Food & Drink
For a delightful break with stunning views, consider pausing for a meal and refreshments during your Eisriesenwelt adventure. We suggest two charming venues for delectable dining experiences:
These locations offer inviting seating and a range of tasty food and beverages, perfect for unwinding!
In the visitor center
Nestled at 1000m elevation, at the culmination of the Eisriesenwelt access route, our daytime restaurant features a spacious terrace. It serves as a self-service bistro for numerous ice cave explorers, providing a refreshing spot to relax and recharge.
Boasting panoramic views of the Salzach Valley and the Hohe Tauern, coupled with an exceptional dining ambiance, our YGGDRASIL restaurant promises to make your visit a unique and memorable experience.
At the cable car mountain station
The Dr. Oedl Haus, conveniently located at the cable car mountain station, is the perfect spot to visit before or after exploring the cave.
On sunny days, enjoy a varied menu on the ample terrace, or dine inside the inviting restaurant during inclement weather. The terrace comfortably seats around 200 guests, while the restaurant has space for up to 120 people.
Due to limited seating, we highly recommend reservations for travel groups to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
FAQ
Tour duration?
Expect the tour to span about an 3 hours.
Why there is no electricity in the Cave?
Maintaining the authenticity of the Eisriesenwelt experience, the deliberate absence of electricity mirrors the original discovery conditions of the cave system.
Visitors are provided with historically replicated lamps, allowing them to navigate the secure pathways on foot.
The carbide lamps, along with the white glow from the magnesium lights used by cave guides, create a uniquely atmospheric and charming experience during your exploration.
Can I cancel or change my ticket?
Should you be unable to make your scheduled booking, ticket modifications can be arranged at the onsite ticket counter, subject to availability for your preferred time slot.
In cases where there’s a valid and significant reason preventing ticket use, cancellation and a refund of the purchase price are possible options.
