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Türkenloch: A Glimpse into Austria's Natural and Historical Depths

Explore Türkenloch: A natural cave in Lower Austria offering hiking, via ferrata, and stunning views within the dramatic Steinwand Gorge.

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Türkenloch, or "Turkish Hole," is a captivating cave nestled within the dramatic Steinwand Gorge in Lower Austria. This natural landmark offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore geological artistry while connecting with the region's rich history and local lore.

A brief summary to Türkenloch

  • 2763, AT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a torch (flashlight) to fully explore the Türkenloch cave, as it can be quite dark inside.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, as the trails can be steep, uneven and slippery.
  • Consider purchasing a combi-ticket for Steinwandklamm and Myrafälle to save money if you plan to visit both.
  • If you plan to tackle the Rudolf Decker Steig, assess your fitness and comfort with heights beforehand.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for changing conditions, especially in the mountains.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking area at Jausenstation Reischer, follow the signs for Steinwandklamm. The entrance to the gorge is a short walk from the parking area. A ticket is required to pass the turnstile into the gorge. Entrance fees to Steinwandklamm vary, check the official website for current pricing. The Rudolf-Decker-Steig is optional and adds a more challenging climb.

  • Public Transport

    While direct public transport to Jausenstation Reischer is limited, you can take a train to Pernitz-Muggendorf. From there, take a taxi or consider a longer hike (approx. 7km) to reach Steinwandgraben. Check local taxi services for pricing and availability. ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) provides train schedules and connections. Consider using the VOR (Verkehrsverbund Ost-Region) app or website for regional transport options and connections. Bus line 265 runs from Mödling to Türkenloch. Be prepared for a short walk from the bus stop to the entrance of Türkenloch.

  • Driving

    From the A2 motorway, take the Wöllersdorf exit. Follow the signs towards Gutenstein and then to Steinwandgraben. Continue on Steinwandgraben to Jausenstation Reischer (Steinwandgraben 22, 2564 Furth an der Triesting), where parking is available. Parking costs are included in the entrance fee for Steinwandklamm. Parking fee is around €5 per day.

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Discover more about Türkenloch

Türkenloch, meaning "Turkish Hole", is more than just a cave; it's a natural landmark interwoven with history and local lore, situated within the dramatic Steinwand Gorge (Steinwandklamm) in Lower Austria. This intriguing location offers visitors a chance to delve into the earth's geological artistry while also connecting with the region's past. The cave itself is a relatively small but significant feature of the Steinwandklamm, a gorge carved by the forces of water over millennia. The gorge is characterized by towering rock faces, lush vegetation, and a series of waterfalls that cascade down the mountainside. Wooden boardwalks, bridges, and stairs have been ingeniously constructed to allow visitors to safely traverse the gorge and witness its beauty up close. The sound of rushing water, the cool mist in the air, and the sight of sunlight filtering through the dense canopy create an immersive sensory experience. For the more adventurous, the Rudolf Decker Steig offers an exciting detour. This via ferrata, a protected climbing route, involves ascending vertical ladders and traversing exposed sections of rock. While not overly challenging, it requires a good head for heights and a reasonable level of fitness. The reward for those who undertake this climb is a unique perspective on the gorge and the surrounding landscape. The Türkenloch itself is a dark and somewhat mysterious cave, accessible via the Rudolf Decker Steig. It's recommended to bring a torch (flashlight) to fully appreciate the cave's interior. The cave's name, "Turkish Hole," hints at its historical significance. Local legend has it that during the Turkish invasions of Austria, local people sought refuge in this cave. However, their attempt to signal their presence with a fire led to their discovery and subsequent massacre by the invaders. While the historical accuracy of this legend is debated, it adds a layer of intrigue to the site. Archaeological finds within the Türkenloch support the idea of human presence during that era. The Steinwandklamm and Türkenloch offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life, a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and contemplate the passage of time.

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