Exploring the Salt Mines in Hallstatt

The salt mine in Hallstatt dates back to 7000 years ago. The research says that the salt deposits happened around 25 million years ago when sea water was encapsulated by hot volcanic eruptions. There is a guided tour available for the tourists. The ticket costs 30 euros per adult, which includes the funicular rides as well.

The tour starts with the funicular ride to the top, region near skywalk bridge. And from there, it is a small hike to the entrance of the salt mines.

Funicular ride to the top

Small hike to the entrance of the Salt Mine

Entrance of Salzwelten

We were given costumes to enter the first two levels of mine, starting from Christina Gallery. There were two main slides to enter the two levels. There were many video presentations and explanations inside the mine. The guide was excellent.

Entrance of Christina Gallery

Walk inside narrow caves

A constant temperature of 8 degrees was maintained inside the mines. On the walls, we could see powdery salt deposits. There were also displays of salt blocks. The one below shows, different concentrations of Calcium and Iron in different blocks. Each of them has about 34 different minerals.

Salt blocks, with different concentration of Ca and Fe

They were very creative in their presentations. One of the presentations was near a small lake and the reflections in the cave and the water was splendid. They used big stones as screens to project their videos. In our tour, the guide spoke both German and English. The videos were in German, but they had subtitles in English.

A Video Presentation Screen.

They explained the dry and wet methods of salt extraction using a small human toy. There was a final movie explaining the research from Vienna University. It was regarding a small staircase that is present at this mine, which is identified as the oldest staircase in the world.

Oldest Staircase in the World, by a research from Vienna University

We then boarded the salt mine train, back to the top of the mine. It was an amazing experience. As we came out to return the costumes, they had pictures of the slide ready with a price of 5 euros per photo.

Salt Mine’s Train

A few advises:

• Check for their timings before your visit. As the winter approaches, they decrease the allowable span and it is completely closed during few months in winter
• Be present at the funicular stop before 30 mins, since there is a small trek as well involved. The funicular might get crowded as well. Take that into consideration. If you have more time left for the beginning of the guided tour, you can always enjoy the view from the skywalk.
• Wear sturdy shoes, and remember to smile for the slide picture! 😉