Dachstein 5fingers
A dramatic, hand-shaped viewing platform offering unparalleled panoramic vistas over the Alps and Hallstättersee.
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Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Dachstein 5fingers
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, hand-shaped viewing platform offering unparalleled panoramic vistas over the Alps and Hallstättersee.
"The views are incredible, a must-see with breathtaking panoramic views!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Comfortable shoes with good grip are a must for the varied terrain and inclines.
⏰ Don't Miss the Last Cable Car!
Keep track of time; missing the last cable car can lead to unexpected challenges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic 5 Fingers
Dachstein Krippenstein Summit
A thrilling, hand-shaped viewing platform offering unparalleled panoramic vistas of the Alps and Hallstättersee.
Hallstatt's Breathtaking Views
From the 5 Fingers platform
Gaze down upon the picturesque village of Hallstatt and its stunning lake, a truly postcard-perfect scene.
The Enchanting Ice Cave
Dachstein Krippenstein
Explore a magical world of ice formations, stalactites, and stalagmites in this impressive natural wonder.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Salzkammergut activities in March
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Comfortable shoes with good grip are a must for the varied terrain and inclines.
⏰ Don't Miss the Last Cable Car!
Keep track of time; missing the last cable car can lead to unexpected challenges.
Dachstein climbing / hiking conditions
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
Temperatures can be cool, especially in the caves. Bring layers for warmth.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if visiting on a warm day.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Comfortable shoes with good grip are a must for the varied terrain and inclines.
⏰ Don't Miss the Last Cable Car!
Keep track of time; missing the last cable car can lead to unexpected challenges.
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
Temperatures can be cool, especially in the caves. Bring layers for warmth.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if visiting on a warm day.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended for the exposed mountain environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the 5 Fingers viewpoint and the stunning Hallstättersee below. The Ice Cave is also a major highlight, offering a unique natural spectacle. However, many note that the attraction can be very crowded, requiring patience for photos, and emphasize the importance of comfortable footwear and being prepared for inclines and cooler temperatures.
"Awesome hike with nice view. its about 30 min long way from cabin but you will experience a lot of magnificient views and panoramas. Cherry on the top is the view from 5fingers at the end. depends on time but there is whole day quite busy so it will take some time to get into spot for like alone photo on finger,etc but thats normal for place like this."
Jakub Hubka
"Visited here on 17-06-25. Advisable to come as early as possible to see as much as possible as distances are vast between attractions and the 5 Fingers Viewpoint itself. If you are going to see any of the caves, leave ample time before taking the next cable car up to the taller mountain to 5 Fingers Viewpoint. We were not told how long the walk would be the to the cave.
We bought a combination ticket to see the Ice Cave and 5 Fingers. Make sure you wear sturdy comfortable shoes with a good grip. The weather was very warm and we were not told that the walk up to the entrance of the cave was 20 mins and STEEP. In the hot sun, it wasn't easy.
The cave tour is amazing. Bring a light jacket/jumper as it gets very cool/cold inside depending on how you adjust to low temperatures. It starts off exploring the main caves. You will see many stalactites and stalagmites formations. Be warned, there are many steps including steep staircase steps to the Ice cave so advisable that you are relatively fit and in good health as the tour requires a lot of walking and many steps as well as a few steep staircases. The cave tour is amazing, the sheer size, the rock formations and the ice.
Once you go to get the 2nd cable car and head up to the submit, the spaces are vast and to get to the 5 Fingers Viewing Point is actually quite a walk, 30 mins to be precise. The surface is NOT completely flat and consists of inclines both up and down so bare that in mind depending on how good you are at walking and breathing given the altitude and weather, if its hot.
The views are incredible. We were lucky enough to see two paragliders preparing to take off which was amazing to watch.
MOST IMPORTANT - Remember what time the LAST cable car is due to leave. We lost track of time and ended up missing the last one. Thankfully after talking to a few people, there was one at 6pm (unofficial) which we rode back down with staff of the cable cars but be conscious of time.
There is a restaurant at the top reasonable priced where you can have a drink/meal as well as toilets.
Overall an amazing visit, we had a wonderful time. Would advise to leave ample time to explore, comfortable, sturdy footwear, plenty of water/drinks to stay hydrated, sun screen, sunglasses, in other words come prepared."
Joanna M L Fearn
"Very nice view of the Hallstättersee. 🤩 Like every tourist attraction there were a few people, but it was okay. 😀"
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Dachstein 5 Fingers is via the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car. You'll typically drive or take public transport to the Obertraun am Hallstättersee valley station, then ascend in stages. The 5 Fingers viewpoint is a walk from the upper cable car station.
Yes, there is parking available at the valley station in Obertraun. It can fill up during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.
Yes, you can reach the Obertraun valley station via public transport, including trains and buses. Check local schedules for connections from nearby towns like Hallstatt.
The journey involves the cable car ride and then a walk to the viewpoint. The walk from the upper cable car station to the 5 Fingers platform itself takes about 30 minutes.
While not explicitly mentioned, local bus services connect to the cable car station. It's best to check current public transport options for any specific shuttle services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but a round-trip cable car ticket is approximately 44 euros per person. Combination tickets for caves and the 5 Fingers are also available.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your spot and potentially save time.
Opening hours are tied to the cable car operation. It's crucial to check the official Dachstein Krippenstein website for the most up-to-date operating times, as they can change seasonally.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or groups. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket office for current offers.
Combination tickets often include access to the 5 Fingers viewpoint, the Ice Cave, and the Mammoth Cave, along with the cable car rides.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from the upper cable car station to the 5 Fingers platform is about 30 minutes. The path is not entirely flat and includes inclines, so be prepared for some effort, especially at altitude.
The Ice Cave tour involves many steps, including steep staircases. It requires a reasonable level of fitness due to the walking and inclines.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip. Bring layers of clothing as it can be cool, especially inside the caves.
Yes, there is a restaurant at the summit offering food and drinks at reasonable prices, along with restroom facilities.
Absolutely! The views are incredible, but it can get crowded. Visiting early or during off-peak times can help you get those coveted solo shots.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the panoramic views without many people. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the colors of the sky and lake.
The platform itself is the main attraction, but explore the surrounding paths for different perspectives of the Hallstättersee and the Dachstein massif.
Patience is key! Visit during off-peak hours or very early in the morning. Sometimes waiting a few minutes for a group to move on can yield a clear shot.
The Ice Cave is dimly lit, so a tripod can be helpful for longer exposures. Be mindful of other visitors and the cave's delicate formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, the Ice Cave can be a magical experience, sparking imagination with its icy formations. However, be prepared for the many steps and the cool temperatures. The Mammoth Cave is also a good option, offering impressive scale without the extreme cold. Consider the cable car rides themselves as an exciting part of the journey for children. Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for exploring.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Remember that mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for varying conditions. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, and carrying water and snacks is recommended for longer excursions. The panoramic views from various vantage points are a major draw for nature lovers.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the panorama. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, particularly inside the Ice Cave. Experiment with different angles from the platform and the surrounding trails to find your unique shot. Be patient, as waiting for the right moment and light can yield spectacular results.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Dachstein Krippenstein Area
Visitors often recommend allocating ample time, especially if you plan to visit the caves as well. The distances between attractions are considerable, and the terrain can be challenging. Reviews suggest that not everyone is fully aware of the walking distances and inclines involved, leading to rushed experiences. Planning your route and checking the cable car schedules are crucial to avoid missing connections or the last descent.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket if you intend to explore multiple sites, as this can be more cost-effective. Always check the official Dachstein Krippenstein website for the most current operating hours, ticket prices, and any advisories regarding trail conditions, especially if visiting during shoulder seasons when snow might still be present.
The Thrill of the 5 Fingers Viewpoint
Travelers consistently rave about the incredible views and the sheer awe-inspiring nature of the platform. However, many also emphasize the importance of arriving early to avoid the peak crowds. Getting a clear shot or a moment of solitude on the platform can be challenging during busy periods. Some visitors suggest checking recent photos on platforms like Instagram to gauge current crowd levels and conditions.
Beyond the main platform, the surrounding area offers further exploration. You can often see paragliders preparing for takeoff from nearby areas, adding another dynamic element to the scenery. Remember to be mindful of the weather; while the views are spectacular on a clear day, clouds can obscure the landscape significantly.
Exploring the Dachstein Caves
The Mammoth Cave, on the other hand, is known for its immense size and unique rock formations. While it may not have the icy spectacle of the Ice Cave, its scale is impressive. Both cave tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the region and provide a welcome respite from the mountain air.
Many visitors opt for a combination ticket that includes access to both caves and the 5 Fingers viewpoint. It's important to note that reaching the caves from the cable car stations involves walking, and the terrain can be uneven. Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for navigating these paths safely and comfortably.
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