Schellenberg Ice Cave Marktschellenberg

The largest ice cave in Germany

The largest ice cave in all of Germany is enthroned at the lofty heights of the Untersberg at 1,570 metres above Marktschellenberg. It holds 60,000 cubic metres of ice, which can be up to 30 metres thick. A visit to the cave is definitely worthwhile, because you won't get such an impressive guided tour through the ice worlds anywhere else. However, you should be sure-footed and in good shape, as the guided tour and the ascent to the cave require a good physical condition. Warm clothing is indispensable, however, as the temperatures in the ice world are below freezing.

Up the mountain

From Marktschellenberg you hike via the Toni Lenz Hut to the Untersberg and then up to the ice cave. This should take you about two to three hours if you are in normal condition. However, if such a hike is too strenuous for you, you can also use the Untersberg cable car. After the ride, you walk up the Thomas-Eder-Steig and several tunnels to the Schellenberg Ice Cave, which should take you about one to two hours.

Guided tour through the eternal ice

Once you've reached the top of the ice cave, you shouldn't miss a guided tour through the eternal ice, because on this journey of discovery you'll not only encounter flags and waterfalls made of ice, but also the so-called "Eismandl". You will walk through the high halls with carbide lamps and learn all about the cave and ice during the 45-minute guided tour. Tickets for the tour can be purchased directly from the guide. Exploration on your own is not possible.

By car

From Germany

First, take the B305 in the direction of Salzburg and follow the main road to Marktschellenberg. Pass through the village and after 2 km you will reach a large parking area on the right-hand side. You can park your car here and climb up to the ice cave directly opposite.

From Austria

First, take the B160 in the direction of Berchtesgaden. Then cross the border into Germany and after about one kilometre you will reach several car parks on the left-hand side. You can park your car here and climb up to the ice cave directly opposite.

By public transport

From both Germany and Austria, you can take buses 840 and 836 to the ice cave. The buses leave from the train station in Berchtesgaden or from the train station in Salzburg.