Ice Caves or Salt Mines

Hello everyone,

We have the ability to see only one of the sights mentioned above. If you were to recommend one, which would it be the Salt Mines of Berchtesgaden, or the Ice Caves in Werfen?

Thank you,

Ben

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I would say this depends on a few factors. Will you be driving or relying on public transport? If you%26#39;re driving and you%26#39;re quite fit, I%26#39;d recommend the ice caves as they are spectacular. Lots of walking though, and warm clothing needed inside the caves. Public transport to Werfen is good (straight train route) but you need then to transfer up the mountain and some visitors have found this problematic. If you%26#39;re thinking of an organised tour from Salzburg this won%26#39;t be a problem, of course.

Berchtesgaden is only about forty minutes from Salzburg and the Salt mine is on the main road so you can%26#39;t miss it. Transport links by bus are also good. Again if you%26#39;re thinking of a tour then transport is not an issue.

On balance the ice caves would be more of an experience if transport isn%26#39;t an issue.

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Having done both, I would say it depends on how energetic you are!

The salt mine is very good and the least strenuous. Plus you can go in to Berchtesgaden itself, which is a beautiful town and possibly visit the Eagles Nest depending on the month of your trip. There is also a Schloss right in the centre of the town which we found to be very interesting.

The ice caves need more preparation and energy but afterwards you can go and visit the castle at Werfen. This also requires energy as it%26#39;s a steep walk up, unless you opt for the shuttle.

The castle was used as the setting for the film, Where Eagles Dare, so if you are interested it%26#39;s well worth a visit. (Although there%26#39;s nothing at the castle to publicise the film.) In the afternoon there are birds of prey demonstrations.

All in all, two very different trips, but both highly enjoyable.

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Think very hard about the Ice Caves if you are over 50 and not very fit or have any disabilities.

They are definately fantastic but it%26#39;s a very strenuous climb!!!!

Did it last week and am just getting over it.

Lewis