Discover the Odelstein cave

To the underworld and back, directly from the Kölblwirt

There is so much you can discover during a guided tour through the inside of the Odelstein cave in Johnsbach in the Gesäuse National Park. Have you ever fancied yourself a cave explorer? You can’t even imagine what it’s like to explore the inside of a cave? Then why don’t you come along and join us for a guided cave tour?

Did you know?

The Odelstein cave, located 1,085 metres above sea level in the mountaineering village of Johnsbach, was one of the first caves that became a show cave at the beginning of the 20th century. At that point, over 600 metres had already been investigated and researched. In 1910, its owner, the “Kölblwirt” in Johnsbach, opened it to the public. Due to its exceptionally rich display of minerals, it was declared a natural monument in 1931. The Odelstein cave is a calcareous sinter cave with fascinating blue flos ferri.

A world-renowned treasure

The Odelstein cave gained worldwide fame due to its rich display of green-and-blue aragonite crystals. Despite the sad fact that mineral thieves showed no respect for the miracles of nature and clearly left their marks, the Odelstein cave continues to be a unique natural treasure well worth a visit. A guided tour will definitely leave you with a lasting impression of “Johnsbach’s underworld”.

Come and join us ...

... on a tour to the Odelstein cave. A guided tour takes approximately three hours, with a 45-minute hike to and from the cave. We only offer guided tours during the summer, as the hike to and from the cave is too dangerous in the winter. Trained cave guides, amongst them members of the Wolf family, will lead the tours. You can therefore rest assured that you are in the best of hands and that we will show you everything the cave has to offer.

When are the tours?

On Wednesdays and Saturdays from May until October. Advance reservation is required.

Where are the tours?

The tour starts at 9.00 a.m. at the Kölblwirt in Johnsbach.

How can I join the tour?

You can book the tour before 4.00 p.m. on the previous day, either at the information office in Admont or directly at the Kölblwirt.

What do I need to bring?

Warm clothes that can get dirty and sturdy shoes. The hike to the cave is an alpine path and requires good equipment and a sure footing. Upon request, we also gladly organise a guided tour in line with your individual schedule. The minimum number of participants is seven. Are you interested in discovering the Odelstein cave? Then just get in touch with us!