Hundsalm ice and dripstone caves in Angerberg/Mariastein

Hikers will come across refreshment of a somewhat different kind on the Hundsalm at 1,520 metres altitude. Even in the height of summer it is still around zero degrees in the ice and dripstone caves. Immerse yourself in a fascinating ice realm and explore this unique natural gem. A guided tour into the depths of the ice and dripstone caves is a real experience. The ice caves are located above the towns of Angerberg and Mariastein and can be accessed via a moderately difficult full day hike, which does ask lot of your fitness level. An excursion to the cave is a unique adventure for hikers, families and nature lovers.

The Hundsalm cave on the Buchacker in Holiday Region Hohe Salve is the only ice and dripstone cave in West Austria that is open to the public. Since 1956 it has been conservation protected. In the summer months expert guides accompany you every day into this fascinating underground realm. In spring a trip is very much recommended, and is when the caves show off the most strange ice forms. Even in the height of summer an exploratory tour provides a superb experience. The pleasant temperatures in the ice caves provide perfect refreshment on hot days.

The ice and stone formations in the caves provide a fascinating insight into the secrets of how our planet came about and about its development. This story is told with exciting and expert background information during a 30 minute guided tour by members of the "Schauhöhlenverein". Before going underground participants are kitted out with mining lamps and a helmet.

The route into the mountain proceeds via a narrow gorge via well-secured steps. Even after a few metres the first areas of ice can be seen - almost under an open sky. Then the well-constructed paths proceed down into the branch routes of this cave labyrinth. There is always time to get a close look of the abstract forms of ice and stone. Some of the dripstones are over 350,000 years old. One very special stone form is the ‘Christuskopf’, which as its name suggests, is reminiscent of the head of Christ. The really large and spectacular ice and rock formations are hidden deep in the mountain.

The Hundsalm ice and dripstone cave is accessible via a challenging day hike. The well-designed forest trail proceeds from the hiking car park at Lettenbichl via serpentines up to the traditional Buchackeralm. Here you get to treat yourself to a little break and re-energise with some delicious Tirol food. The team of Buchacker Alm, places a great deal of emphasis on using only regional produce. They invest a great deal of time and effort into their dishes and serve wonderful Alpine delicacies. After replenishing your energy stores, continue on the forest trail. Pass Adlerhorst, the viewing platform on the high plateau, and continue for a good half an hour on the lush Alpine pastures and sections of forest that provide shade until you come to the entrance of the ice cave.

Do you enjoy hiking as part of a group? Every Thursday in the summer you can take part in the guided all-day hikes to the Hundsalm ice cave. An expert local hiking guide will show you the loveliest viewing areas, tell you stories about the region and take you direct to the entrance of the ice cave. Book your hiking experience online right now via the Summer activity programme! Please note: This hike is graded as challenging and requires a decent level of fitness.