Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

The Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave is located in the town of Werfen, about 40 kilometers south of Salzburg, Austria, and is the largest ice cave discovered to date. Scientist Anton Posselt was the first to explore it in 1879, but even before his arrival, locals were already aware of the cave and believed it to be an “entrance to hell,” so they dared not approach it.

The Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave is 42 kilometers deep, yet only the first kilometer or so is covered with ice and snow. This is formed by snow that drifts in from outside, melts, and then accumulates at the upper part of the cave, where it freezes again in winter—a process that repeats year after year. Today, the Eisriesenwelt has become a famous tourist destination, attracting approximately 200,000 visitors each year who come to experience the cave’s mystique.

The cave is open from May 1 to October 26 each year. The temperature inside is extremely low, so warm clothing is necessary. Once inside the cave, photography is not allowed. A tour of the cave takes 75 minutes, which, although short, is enough to give visitors a sense of its vastness and wonder.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves

Must-visit reason: The world’s largest ice cave

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Austria[Austria]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Salzburg [Salzburg]

City where the attraction is located: Salzburg [Salzburg]