Top 10 Caves around Reith im Alpbachtal
Best caves around Reith im Alpbachtal include historical mining tunnels and religious grottoes, offering a glimpse into the region's past rather than extensive natural cave systems. The Alpbachtal region is known for its mountainous landscape and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore sites that highlight ancient industrial history and culturally significant religious locations. These unique "caves" provide a different perspective on the area's heritage.
Best caves around Reith im Alpbachtal
- The most popular caves include the Parish Church of St. Virgil…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine, Rattenberg
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Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze
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Alpbach Show Mine
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Shrine at the Cave
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Cave Near Seekarspitze
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Tips from the Community
A descent from the Kragenjoch via this route is not recommended: It is an extremely steep descent down a narrow gravel path that seems to never end. Not suitable for inexperienced hikers or children.
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One of Rattenberg's special sights is the parish church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine. This Gothic building has two naves. Once, it was a separate church for citizens and miners. Important artists redesigned the building in the Baroque style. A chapel commemorates Saint Notburga, who was born in Rattenberg. Noteworthy: an elevator leads from the Painter's Corner to the church portal. 😉
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A hand-dug tunnel about 10m long in the Gratlspitze mountain range. On the back of the mountain there are numerous other former tunnels that indicate mining.
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You just have to see this one!
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The immediate proximity of the steeply sloping Schlossberg site and the spatial limitations of the building site meant that the church building itself showed some special features. The origins of the church are Gothic. It was built between 1473 and 1506 and acquired its current Baroque architectural style in the 18th century. The main artistic features are the so-called "Annenaltar" in the southern choir stalls with its statues, the vault frescoes by SB Faistenerger and Matthäus Günther and the Lourdes Shrine.
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Information about the caves at: https://www.zobodat.at/pdf/Hoehle_69_0038-0048.pdf
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Südtiroler Strasse 67 is the birthplace of Saint Notburga, who enjoys great prestige in the region. She was born in Rattenberg in 1265 and, as a child, was appointed maidservant to the Count of Rottenburg in the Lower Inn Valley. She always saved some of the meals she received there to give to the poor and beggars. After the death of the countess, his stepdaughter Ottilie forced her to leave the castle and she became a maidservant on a farm in Eben. The farmer was harsh and exploited his staff. He wanted to continue working in the evening, but Notburga did not want to give in and shouted loudly "Rest time". She threw up her sickle, which miraculously stayed in the air. When Ottilie died she returned to the castle where she served faithfully until her death. She died on September 14, 1313 and is now located in the Notburgakirche in Eben, Tyrol. You cannot visit her birthplace, but you can read all about her miracles and her life on the facade plaque.
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For explorers who don't just want to hike
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'caves' can I expect to find around Reith im Alpbachtal?
The region is known more for historical mining tunnels and religious grottoes rather than extensive natural cave systems with stalactites and stalagmites. These sites offer a unique glimpse into the area's ancient industrial past and cultural heritage.
Are there any historical mining tunnels I can visit?
Yes, you can explore the Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze, a hand-dug tunnel about 10 meters long, offering insight into ancient copper and silver mining. Another option is the Alpbach Show Mine, a historic tunnel extending about 15 meters into the mountain, which was fully uncovered in 2019.
Where can I find religious grottoes or cave-like spiritual sites?
The Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine, Rattenberg, features cave elements and a Lourdes Shrine. Additionally, the Shrine at the Cave offers a spiritual experience within a natural rock formation, accessible via a challenging forest route.
What is the difficulty level for visiting these sites?
The difficulty varies. The Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze and the Alpbach Show Mine are generally accessible as detours from hiking trails. However, reaching the Shrine at the Cave involves a challenging forest route with a strenuous climb.
Are there any caves suitable for more adventurous explorers?
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Cave Near Seekarspitze is a walk-in cave that goes very far into the dark. Caution is advised for explorers.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to these sites?
The region is excellent for hiking. You can find various routes, including mountain hikes, around Reith im Alpbachtal. For example, the Gratlspitz Summit loop from Holzalm is a moderate mountain hike that can be combined with a visit to the Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze.
Are there family-friendly options for exploring these sites?
While the mining tunnels offer an educational glimpse into history, they are short. The Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine, Rattenberg, is listed as family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, offering a cultural experience with cave elements.
What should I wear when visiting these cave-like attractions?
Given that many of these sites are either historical tunnels or religious grottoes, and often involve hiking to reach them, comfortable hiking shoes and appropriate outdoor clothing are recommended. A headlamp might be useful for deeper sections of the Cave Near Seekarspitze.
Is there public transport available to reach these locations?
While specific public transport details to each 'cave' are not provided, Reith im Alpbachtal and the surrounding towns are generally well-connected. It's advisable to check local bus schedules to nearby trailheads or towns like Rattenberg for access to the sites.
What is the best time of year to visit these sites?
The best time to visit is typically during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when hiking trails are clear and weather conditions are favorable for outdoor activities. Winter visits might be possible for some sites, but access to hiking-dependent locations could be limited by snow and ice.
Are permits required for exploring the mining tunnels or caves?
No specific permits are mentioned as required for visiting the publicly accessible historical mining tunnels or religious grottoes in the region. However, always respect local regulations and private property signs.
What makes the town of Rattenberg special, beyond its church with cave elements?
Rattenberg, home to the Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine, is known as 'Austria's smallest town.' It's famous for its medieval charm, glass art, and a unique setting where parts of its facilities are built into natural rock formations.
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