Dachstein Ice Caves

Another “must” from Hallstatt is a visit to the Ice Caves, or Dachsteineishöhle. To reach the caves, follow the road around the south end of the lake towards the town of Obertraun. As you near the town, watch for the sign for the road that branches to the right to the Dachsteineishöhle. The name says it all—Dachstein Mountains ice hole. But it is much more: even if caverns are not your “thing,” give these a try—it is a real adventure. Park in the designated car park by the gondola building, then buy a ticket and wait your turn. There are several choices for ticket purchase since the gondola climbs to various stages of the mountains for the convenience of skiers and hikers. You want the Eishöhle, which will be well marked. When you reach the top, there is about a 20-minute hike up a trail to the ice caves. The walk is a bit strenuous but the path is well maintained and the views as you stop to catch your breath are glorious—you have a bird’s-eye view of the Hallstätter See. When you reach the entrance to the caves, you must wait until the guide arrives—usually a handsome, athletic “outdoorsy” type. When the group is ready, you follow the leader into the cavern. At first it does not seem anything special, just another enormous cave. Be patient though, because as the trail winds deeper into the earth, the walls of rock gradually become walls of ice. You enter a magic kingdom where you are surrounded by translucent, ever-changing, mysterious forms of ice. To enhance the scene, at the most spectacular displays the guide turns on colored lights that fade, then brighten, then shade into rainbow colors.