Enter the Dachstein Ice Caves and find yourself in an enchanting icy world that seems to have come straight from a fairytale. These incredible underground caves were formed naturally over centuries and are now one of the most impressive sights in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hallstatt area. Wander through these remarkable tunnels and take plenty of photos of the many bizarre, protruding ice formations that hang from the ceiling and rise from the ground.
Reach the caves via the Dachstein Krippenstein Cable Car, located near Obertraun, a peaceful village on the banks of the breathtakingly beautiful Lake Hallstatt. See the magnificent mountainous landscape spread out below you as the cable car climbs. Exit the cable car and take advantage of your location to explore the beautiful Schönbergalm Nature Park before you go into the caves.
At the entrance to the caves, join a guided tour and prepare to head deep into the mountain itself. Hear the story of how the caves were formed and how changing temperatures continue to alter their shapes. Follow your expert guide through long icy corridors studded with stalactites. In the large cavern known as St. Arthur’s Dome, look up at towering rocks and hear about the archeological discoveries made here.
Move on through the tight tunnels and wide caverns that lead to other key areas of the caves, including spaces with poetic names such as the Ice Palace and the Parsifal Dome. Marvel at the Big Ice Mountain, an enormous ice ball, and see how the colors in the Castle of the Holy Grail change with the light. Exit the ice caves and be prepared for incredible views of Lake Hallstatt and the Krippenstein Mountain.
Visit the Dachstein Ice Caves in any season. This extraordinary sight is worth seeing year round. Come in winter to take advantage of the local opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, or in summer to hike the mountain trails and swim in the nearby lakes. Stay in quiet Obertraun or in the history-filled town of Hallstatt just across the lake.
