Eisriesenwelt Caves

Set at an elevation of 1640m (5380ft), these caves are the largest accessible ice caves in the world with more than 40km (25mi) of explored passageways. Entry to the caves is regulated and a 75-minute tour takes in several immense caverns containing elaborate ice formations and frozen waterfalls.

The caves were first entered in 1879, but it was one Alexander von Mork who pioneered the most extensive exploration: when he signed off, his ashes were placed in an urn in the ‘cathedral’ cave. Be sure to wear warm clothes when you visit because the passageways are as close as you’ll ever come to feeling you’ve been trapped in your Westinghouse icebox. The caves are open between May and early October and are located near Werfen. You can get there by train from Salzburg (50 minutes) or via Hwy 10. Allow 3-4 hours for the whole visit, which includes getting to the caves from Werfen.