Explore the Mystical Dachstein Giant Ice Cave
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dachstein Giant Ice Cave, a natural wonder filled with stunning ice formations and enchanting caverns.
A brief summary to Dachstein Giant Ice Cave
- Obertraun, AT
Nestled in the heart of the Dachstein mountain range, the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave is a mesmerizing attraction that draws visitors from around the globe. This natural wonder, formed over millennia, reveals a stunning display of ice formations including massive icicles, frozen waterfalls, and ethereal blue ice. Guided tours take you through the cave’s vast chambers, providing insights into the geological processes that created this icy marvel. Visitors can expect to see breathtaking sights, such as the 'Ice Palace' and 'Frozen Waterfall,' each showcasing the unique beauty of glacial ice. The cave is not just a visual spectacle; it also offers a unique climate that remains consistently cold, making it an ideal escape during the warmer months. As you traverse the winding pathways, you're enveloped in a serene ambiance, punctuated by the soft sound of dripping water and the crunch of ice underfoot. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the cave's history and the science behind its formation, enhancing the experience. Moreover, the surrounding area boasts stunning alpine scenery, with opportunities for hiking and photography. The Dachstein Giant Ice Cave is easily accessible, making it a perfect day trip for families, couples, and solo travelers. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to marvel at nature's wonders, a visit to the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave promises to be a highlight of your trip to Austria.
Local tips
- Dress warmly; temperatures inside the cave are significantly cooler than outside.
- Book your guided tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning ice formations, but check the rules about photography.
- Consider combining your visit with a hike in the surrounding Dachstein region for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Ferry
Start your journey from Hallstatt's ferry dock. Take the ferry that crosses Lake Hallstatt to the dock at Obertraun. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Obertraun dock, you can proceed to the next step.
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Walking
After disembarking from the ferry at Obertraun, follow the path leading up to the main road (Dachsteinstraße). From the dock, turn right onto the road. You will walk along this road for about 1.5 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. The path is well-marked and quite scenic, with beautiful views of the mountains.
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Cable Car
Once you reach the base station for the Dachstein cable car (Dachstein Krippenstein), you will need to purchase a ticket for the cable car that takes you up to the mountain. The cable car ride is approximately 10 minutes and will take you to a high altitude. Once you arrive at the top, follow the signs to the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave entrance, which is about a 20-minute walk from the cable car station.
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Hiking
The final leg of the journey involves a short hike. Follow the marked trail to the entrance of the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the mountain climate, as temperatures can be quite cool inside the cave.
Attractions Nearby to Dachstein Giant Ice Cave
- Dachstein Rieseneishöhle
- Dachstein Panorama View
- Mammut Cave
- Dachstein Mammoth Cave
- Dachstein Krippenstein
- Koppenbrüller Cave
- Dachsteinhöhlen
- Dachstein Shark
- 5 Fingers
- World Heritage Spiral (Welterbespirale)
- Berghöhle am Krippenstein
- Dreistein
- Panoramic Viewpoint - Point of Magic
- Kreuzwegkapelle III
- Denkmal