The healing climate of Bad Eisenkappel

Austria's southernmost market town borders on Slovenia and lies in the middle of the magnificent Karawanken mountains in the Vellachtal valley. Bad Eisenkappel is a spa and climatic health resort, is also a "climate protection community" and "healthy community" and is fog-free all year round. Take advantage of the many hours of sunshine for extensive exploratory tours. The air in Austria's southernmost spa town is particularly mild and, thanks to its healing climatic properties, also provides people with a top-class health and relaxation holiday.

A natural wonder to marvel at

Vivea Hotel Bad Eisenkappel - Ausflugsziel Obir Tropfsteinhöhle © AdobeStock-185565991 | Uros

Immerse yourself in Carinthia's underground jewel

The magical world of the Obir dripstone caves

They are the highlight of the region and attract visitors with their fascinating stalactite formations. You too can be impressed by the multimedia displays in Austria's oldest show cave. The living dripstones, witnesses to 2.6 million years of history, are an unrivalled rarity. There are 12 caves over a length of approx. 5 kilometres. The part that can be visited is connected by a 1.3 km long system of corridors.

Sustainability and resource conservation
The Obir dripstone caves can only be visited with a guide. The journey of discovery starts with the cave buses at the main square in Bad Eisenkappel and returns there after approx. 3 hours. The guided tour of the caves itself lasts approx. 1.5 hours.

Further information

Wild and romantic
gorge landscape

A colourful mosaic of forests, gorges, rocks, springs and waterfalls

Trögerner Klamm nature reserve

This wild and romantic gorge landscape is around 8 kilometres from Bad Eisenkappel. The oxygen-rich, crystal-clear and green-bluish shimmering torrent flows between rugged limestone cliffs and is home to trout. This gorge is a colourful mosaic of forests, gorges, rocks, natural springs, waterfalls and cascades and offers a unique natural landscape of exceptional character.

Most of the area is formed by Triassic limestones. These were formed around 250-210 million years ago from the remains of calcareous organisms. The deep gorges are the result of millions of years of water erosion. A walk through this gorge landscape is well worthwhile and is possible with both pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Vivea Hotel Bad Eisenkappel - Ausflugsziel Trögerner Klamm © Jürgen Lamprecht

History, art & living tradition

Maria Dorn pilgrimage church

The Maria Dorn pilgrimage church is a gem in Bad Eisenkappel. Its magnificent frescoes and the elaborately gilded high altar by Michael Stigger cast a spell over visitors. At the centre of the altar is the miraculous Mother of God with the infant Jesus, flanked by Joachim and Anna as well as Saints Barbara and Katharina.

St Anne's Chapel impresses with an altar from the late 18th century. The side altars date from the early 18th century and the organ, one of the oldest in Austria, is dated 1652. Another highlight is the neo-Gothic monstrance from 1820.

Vivea Hotel Bad Eisenkappel - Wallfahrtskirche Maria Dorn © Jürgen Lamprecht

Church carrying

A special feature is the wooden staircase to the elevated church - a place of living tradition, which is closely linked to the famous "Kircherltragen". The "Kirchleintragen" on the evening before Maria Lichtmeß (1st February) is known far beyond the borders.

The diversity of Bad Eisenkappel

Around Bad Eisenkappel, holidaymakers can also experience peace and tranquillity far away from mass tourism. A unique natural landscape, cultural diversity and environmentally friendly tourism are the special features of this region.

In and around Bad Eisenkappel

Our excursion tips:

KLOPEINERSEE

approx. 21 km

KLOPEINERSEE

One of the warmest bathing lakes in Europe is just a few kilometres from the Vivea Hotel Bad Eisenkappel. Crystal-clear water, idyllic lakeside promenades and a wide range of leisure activities make it the perfect destination for nature and swimming enthusiasts.

Further information

WILDENSTEIN WATERFALL

approx. 15 km

WILDENSTEIN WATERFALL

At 54 metres, the Wildenstein waterfall near Gallizien is one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. It impresses with its natural power and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

HOCHOBIR & EISENKAPPLER HUT

approx. 16 km

HOCHOBIR & EISENKAPPLER HUT

The Hochobir, one of the most striking peaks in Carinthia, offers breathtaking views over the Southern Alps. Well-marked paths lead up from the Eisenkappler Hütte, which is a cosy place to take a break - a rewarding destination for hikers and nature lovers.

HEMMABERG - ROSALIA GROTTO

approx. 17 km

HEMMABERG - ROSALIA GROTTO

The Hemmaberg with the Rosalia Grotto is a place full of history and spirituality. Ancient church remains, mysterious caves and a magnificent panoramic view make it a special excursion destination - ideal for culture and nature lovers.