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Werfen Ice Giants World
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Eisriesenwelt Werfen, located in the Tennengebirge mountains of Salzburg, is the largest known ice cave system in the world, spanning a total length of approximately 42 kilometres. The cave was discovered in 1879 by naturalist Anton Posselt but remained largely unknown until further exploration by Alexander von Mörk starting in 1913. A unique microclimate has formed within the cave due to the chimney effect, resulting in massive ice sculptures and frozen waterfalls that persist year-round. Visitors can view the front, ice-covered section of the cave on guided tours, which are illuminated with magnesium light to highlight the ice's natural aesthetics. Access to the cave is provided via the steepest aerial tramway in Austria, followed by a footpath at an alpine altitude of 1,641 metres. The scientific significance of Eisriesenwelt lies in the study of climate change through the analysis of ice layers. As the cave is a protected monument and ecologically sensitive, tourism is strictly regulated. Eisriesenwelt is only open to the public during the summer months.
- Location: Salzburg, Austria
- Top sights: Sankt Barbara · Ansitz Windbichlgut · Kneippanlage
- Nearby: Werfenweng (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -5 | -4 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 1 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 91 | 72 | 89 | 85 | 151 | 176 | 184 | 184 | 135 | 102 | 76 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The ice cave is typically accessed via the town of Werfen, followed by a steep mountain road to the visitor center. From there, access involves a brisk walk and a cable car ride, meaning visitors should usually allow plenty of time just to reach the entrance.
Best season
The cave is generally open only from early May until late October, remaining completely closed during the winter months. Summer is widely considered the best time to visit, providing a striking contrast between the warm outside air and the freezing cave interior.
Terrain & paths
Getting to the cave requires walking on exposed, steep alpine paths with considerable elevation changes before the cable car. Inside, the terrain consists of hundreds of wooden stairs going up and down, making it quite physically demanding for all visitors.
What to bring
Warm winter clothing is absolutely essential, as temperatures inside the cave are typically around or below freezing point. Sturdy, closed footwear is strongly recommended for safely climbing the extensive wooden stairs in the potentially damp and dim environment.
Parking
There are typically parking facilities near the visitor center, accessed via a steep, winding mountain road that requires careful driving. On busy summer days, these spaces can fill up rapidly, so planning to arrive early in the morning is usually very wise.
Safety
Inside the cave, visitors must stay with their guided group and follow instructions, as the environment is dark and complex. Individuals with severe heart or circulatory problems should typically avoid this attraction due to the strenuous stair climbing required at high altitude.
Time needed
The guided tour inside the cave lasts roughly one hour and fifteen minutes. However, with the hike and cable car ride included, visitors should generally plan for a total visit time of at least three to four hours from the parking area.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the cave system is approx. 42 km.
- Discovered in 1879 by Anton Posselt.
- The world's largest ice cave of its kind.
- The cave entrance is situated at 1,641 metres above sea level.
- Accessible via the steepest cable car in Austria.
- Open to visitors only from May to October.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Werfen Ice Giants World (7)
Feuersengkopf
Feuersengkopf has a wide view over the Salzach valley and the surrounding mountains.
Werfen Ice Caves
The largest ice cave system in the world, accessible by cable car and guided tour.
Festung Hohenwerfen
A medieval castle from the 11th century, high above Werfen.
Hochkogel
Hochkogel is a mountain in the Tennengebirge range in Salzburg.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is a reservation required?
Online ticket reservation is strongly recommended as slots per tour are limited.
How cold is it in the cave?
The temperature is around freezing even in summer; warm clothing is mandatory.
How long does a guided tour last?
The cave tour itself takes about 75 minutes; plan 3 hours for the entire trip.
Are there many stairs?
Yes, you have to climb about 1,400 stairs (700 up, 700 down) during the tour.
Is photography allowed in the cave?
Photography and filming are not allowed during the tour for safety reasons.
Werfen Ice Giants World: where is it located?
Werfen Ice Giants World is located in Salzburg, Austria.
Werfen Ice Giants World: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sankt Barbara, Ansitz Windbichlgut, Kneippanlage.
Werfen Ice Giants World: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Werfen Ice Giants World: why is it worth visiting?
Eisriesenwelt Werfen, located in the Tennengebirge mountains of Salzburg, is the largest known ice cave system in the world, spanning a total length of approximately 42 kilometres.
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