The enormous Kaprun Dams (Hochgebirgsstauseen Kaprun) were built as part of an ambitious plan to create a hydroelectric power station at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. Today, the power station is owned by the energy company Verbund and serves as a highly popular attraction in the Salzburg region.
The Story Behind the Construction of the Kaprun Dams
The construction of the dams began in 1938, initiated by the Nazis. For the construction, the Nazis transferred thousands of prisoners to Kaprun (including many Jews), and they worked on building the first dam under extremely harsh conditions. In German, this dam is called Wasserfallboden, and it is the lower of the two (1,672 meters above sea level). In 1944, a small power station began operating partially in the dam area. With the end of the war, the Nazi prisoners were liberated, and work to complete the dam ceased. About two years later, in 1947, work resumed, and in 1951, the massive wall of the first dam was completed. This wall is called the Limberg Wall (in German, Limbergsperre) and is 120 meters high and about 350 meters long. In 1950, the construction of the second dam began and lasted for 5 years. This dam is called Mooserboden in German and is the upper dam (2,030 meters above sea level). The wall of this dam is 107 meters high and about 500 meters long. The two dams are connected by a large canal that is 12 kilometers long.
Today, the dams are used to generate electricity, producing about 700 kilowatt-hours per year and forming an important component of the electricity supply for the Salzburg region. Additionally, they serve as a symbol of human triumph over the mountains, and due to their powerful appearance and the spectacular views they offer, they are considered a popular tourist attraction.
A Memorable Visit to the Kaprun Dams
The journey to the dams starts from the town of Kaprun, through the Kaprun Valley, until you reach Kesselfall Alpenhaus. At this spot, you’ll find free parking and ticket offices. From there, a bus takes visitors to the Lächwand lift. This is Europe’s largest open-air inclined lift, ascending at a steep angle for about 800 meters towards the lower dam. From there, another bus transports visitors to the upper dam. If you don’t wish to continue to the upper dam, you can enjoy a pleasant walking trail between the Fürthermoar Alm restaurant and the Bergrestaurant Mooserboden.
The upper dam is considered the more popular attraction, especially due to the stunning views it offers. Furthermore, at the upper dam, there is a visitor center with various exhibits that include explanations of the history of the dams’ construction and their technology. Along the dam, there is a very pleasant and easy walking path with truly breathtaking views. If you’d like a guided tour, you can join a professional hour-long tour led by a local guide. The tour departs from the kiosk at the upper dam and requires an additional, separate payment.
For climbing enthusiasts, there are via ferrata routes available in the dam area. Also, not far from the visitor center, there’s a beautiful hill from which you can overlook the dams from above and enjoy an absolutely amazing view.
Here’s how the stunning view in the dam area looks:
Essential Information for Visiting the Kaprun Dams
Important Notes:
- Weather Check: It’s highly recommended to check the weather conditions and visibility before heading to the dam to avoid arriving in heavy fog. You can get updates by viewing the camera installed on-site.
- Webcam: View the camera.
Opening Times: May 26th to October 12th.
- May, June, September, and October: Daily from 8:10 AM to 4:45 PM. Last ascent towards the dam at 3:00 PM.
- July, August: Daily from 8:10 AM to 5:00 PM. Last ascent towards the dam at 3:00 PM.
Guided Tours:
- Depart daily between 10:00 AM and 3:15 PM, every 45 minutes.
Bus Schedule:
- There is no fixed timetable for the buses traveling between the dams. Buses operate continuously throughout the day to minimize waiting times. Please note that it takes approximately 45 minutes from the entrance to the complex to reach the dams themselves.
Costs:
Round-trip Ticket:
- Adult: €38
- Child (6-15 years): €21
- Child (up to 5 years): Free
- Family ticket: €97
Guided Tour:
- Adult: €11
- Child (6-15 years): €7
- Child (up to 5 years): Free
Parking:
- Free parking lot near the ticket offices. It is not possible to drive your car up to the dam. You must park in the free parking lot at: Kesselfallstraße 98, 5710 Kaprun.
Official Website:
Address:
- Kesselfallstrasse 96, 5710 Kaprun
Map:
Other Great Attractions Nearby:
Additional fantastic attractions located a short drive from the dam area include:
