For 1,300 years, the Erzberg mine area has been known for its rich minerals, which is why the mountain is called Erzberg (Ore Mountain). The mine that operates in this area today is an open-pit mine. This mine is considered one of the largest and most modern in all of Central Europe and the most important in the Alpine region. About 230 people work permanently in the mine, and every year, about 3 million tons of iron ore are produced there. From there, the small granules are transported to Linz and Donawitz, where the metals are produced from them.
During your visit to the mine, you can see the unique structure of the mine, which is made of huge terraces along the mountain. You will be impressed by the giant machines used for mining, crushing stones, and filtering the ore granules. In addition, you will enter the part of the mine that is deep inside the mountain. You will make the visit to this part on an old mine train for a length of 1.5 kilometers. There is also an exhibition of old machines that were used in the mine in the last century.
The visit is an experience suitable for the whole family, especially for children. During the tour, you will be right in the heart of the action in one of the most active mines in Europe.
You can choose between four tours within the Erzberg mine:
- Tour by vehicle around the mine (Haulytrip): This tour lasts about an hour, during which you will travel in a large, special vehicle between different stations along the mine. You will be able to see the various works that are done as part of the iron ore production process.
- Tour by vehicle around the mine (Haulytrip) and watching a controlled explosion in real time: This tour follows the same route as the first tour. The main addition to this tour is the opportunity to watch a real, controlled explosion inside the mine. At the end of the tour, you will receive a report with all the important details of the explosion you watched. It is mandatory to register for the explosion viewing in advance and to arrive half an hour before the start of the tour.
- Open-Air Exhibition of old machines: This tour is done on foot and takes place in the upper part of the mine. In this part, you can observe the entire mine and learn about the old machines that were used by the miners in the 20th century. In addition, you will visit the tunnels inside the mountain. The tour lasts about an hour and a half.
- Tour in the underground world of mines (Mystical Show Mine): You start the tour with a ride on an old mine train into the mountain where the underground mine is located. The ride is 1.5 kilometers long. After getting off the train, there is a walking tour of 800 meters inside the underground mine. The children will hear an interesting story about the mystical figure of the “Water Man” who told the residents of the area where to find the valuable minerals. In addition, the children can try out the miners’ tools, such as an air drill from the 20th century or the miners’ cart that was used to transport the rocks from the depths of the mine. This tour lasts about an hour and a half.
Please note: Inside the mountain, the temperature is 8 degrees Celsius, so you should bring warm clothing.
This is what a visit to the Erzberg mine looks like
Additional Essential Information for Visiting the Erzberg Mine
Opening Times:
From May to the end of October, every day from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Tours take place several times a day. It is recommended to book tickets in advance through the mine’s website.
Cost:
The ticket prices at the entrance vary depending on the number of tours you want to participate in. Entrance to one of the tours costs:
- Adult – from €23.50
- Youth (15-18), Student – from €19
- Child (4-15) – from €11.50
You can purchase combined tickets that include several of the 4 tours mentioned above.
Recommended! Purchase tickets online
Contact Email: info@abenteuer-erzberg.at
Address: Trofengbachgasse 13, A-8790 Eisenerz
Map:
You can combine a visit to the Erzberg mine with a visit to Admont Abbey, which houses the largest monastic library in the world. In addition, it is worth stopping at the huge Gesäuse National Park and taking a hike in nature. The landscapes of this nature reserve are exceptional!
