Top 10 Caves around Wildschönau
Caves around Wildschönau offer insights into the region's geological formations and historical mining activities. This alpine valley in Tyrol, Austria, is characterized by its natural landscapes and traditional villages. Visitors can explore various underground features, from natural ice caves to historic mining tunnels. The area provides opportunities to experience unique natural landmarks and learn about local heritage.
Best caves around Wildschönau
- The most popular caves is Ice Cave on the Hundalm, a natural monument that offers guided tours through…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine, Rattenberg
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Ice Cave on the Hundalm
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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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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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May 24th – October 26th, 2025, every Saturday and Sunday. July 10th – September 7th, 2025, also every Thursday and Friday during the summer holidays between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM as required. Tour duration: approximately 30 minutes. Please register in advance for groups of 10 or more. Admission Prices €9.00 Adults €7.00 Concessionary (e.g., Tyrolean Family Pass, Guest Card, etc.) €4.00 Children https://eishoehle.tirol/
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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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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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A very nice place, beautiful well-preserved church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves and underground experiences can I find around Wildschönau?
While the traditional Wildschönauer Schaubergwerk is closed, the region offers unique underground experiences. You can explore natural ice caves like the Ice Cave on the Hundalm, which features ice walls and stalactites. There are also historic mining tunnels, such as the Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze and the Alpbach Show Mine, offering glimpses into the area's mining heritage. Additionally, the dramatic Shrine at the Cave provides a cave-like setting with religious significance.
Is the Hundalm Ice Cave suitable for families?
Yes, the Ice Cave on the Hundalm offers guided tours that can be a fascinating experience for families. Participants are provided with safety helmets and carbide lamps, making it an adventurous and educational outing. Keep in mind that it involves navigating narrow passages and stairs, and the temperature inside is constantly around 0° Celsius, so warm clothing is essential.
What should I wear and bring when visiting the Ice Cave on the Hundalm?
For a visit to the Ice Cave on the Hundalm, you should bring a warm jacket, as temperatures inside are consistently around 0° Celsius. You'll be provided with an extra jacket, a safety helmet, and a carbide lamp for exploration. Expect some crawling and tight spots, so your clothes might get wet and dirty.
When is the best time to visit the Ice Cave on the Hundalm?
The Ice Cave on the Hundalm is typically open on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm in May, June, and September. During July and August, you can explore the cave daily. Always check local information for the most current opening hours before planning your visit.
Are there any historical sites related to mining or local heritage in the area?
Yes, the region has a rich history. You can visit the Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze, a hand-dug tunnel indicating past mining activities. The Alpbach Show Mine is another historic tunnel. Additionally, the Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine in Rattenberg, with its Gothic origins and Baroque redesigns, once served both citizens and miners and features significant artistic elements.
How long do guided tours of the Hundalm Ice Cave typically last?
Guided tours of the Ice Cave on the Hundalm generally last about 30 minutes. This allows visitors to explore the unique ice formations and narrow passages safely.
What other natural landmarks can I explore near Wildschönau?
Beyond the caves, the Shrine at the Cave offers a unique natural setting with an arduous climb leading to a great view. The Kundler Klamm (Kundl Gorge) is also a notable natural landmark, featuring dramatic 200-meter cliffs and a river flowing through it, offering a sense of being enveloped by nature, similar to a cave experience.
What outdoor activities can I do near the caves around Wildschönau?
The Wildschönau region is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Via the Achentalalm to the Kragenjoch' or the 'Wildschönau High Trail'. There are also extensive MTB trails and gravel biking routes available. For more details, explore the Hiking around Wildschönau, MTB Trails around Wildschönau, and Gravel biking around Wildschönau guides.
Are there any dog-friendly cave experiences or nearby trails?
Specific information on dog-friendly cave access is limited, as many natural caves have restrictions for safety and preservation. However, the Wildschönau region offers many dog-friendly hiking trails where you can enjoy the natural surroundings with your pet. Always check specific rules for any attraction or trail beforehand.
Do I need a permit or guide to visit the caves?
For the Ice Cave on the Hundalm, guided tours are available and highly recommended, often led by volunteer speleologists. These tours ensure safety and provide valuable insights. For smaller, less formalized grottoes or rock shelters, a permit might not be required, but it's always best to inquire locally for specific access rules.
What is the difficulty level for exploring the caves?
The difficulty varies. The Ice Cave on the Hundalm involves narrow passages, stairs, and wooden jetties, making it an intermediate experience. The hike to the Shrine at the Cave is described as quite arduous, with a steep descent not recommended for inexperienced hikers. Historic mining tunnels like the Historic Mining Tunnel on Gratlspitze are generally shorter and less demanding.
Are there any unique cultural or religious sites near the caves?
Yes, the Parish Church of St. Virgil and St. Catherine in Rattenberg is a significant cultural and religious site with Gothic origins and Baroque artistry. It features elements like the 'Annenaltar' and vault frescoes. The Shrine at the Cave also combines natural beauty with religious significance.
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Wildschönau:
