If there are any truly child-friendly attractions in the adult world, the salt mine in the municipality of Hallstatt is one of them. There is real mystery and even something of a children's attraction. But first things first.
Salt, a valuable natural resource, has been mined in Hallstatt for 7,000 years. The tour focuses on the historical significance of Hallstatt and the mining of salt. It also tells the story of the "man in the salt" who was discovered in 1734. Popular aspects of the tour include a ride on the mine train, an underground salt lake and Europe's longest mine slide (65m). The use of modern technology and holograms makes the story accessible to visitors of all ages.
The deposits are still mined today, but the tour only covers the old ways of mining salt. To see how the miners worked, you must first take the cable car up the mountain. The cable car offers a vertical ascent and its panoramic windows open onto the communal houses and Lake Galschat. At the entrance to the mine, visitors are issued with protective clothing.
However, you'll need to protect yourself from the cold: the temperature inside the caves is around +8°C, so make sure you have warm clothes and sturdy shoes. You'll need your overalls when you climb down the wooden slide into the excavation. Remember to slide down the chute: this is exactly what the miners used to do. The guide also has a special miner's uniform, but it's very smart.
A mysterious kingdom opens up in the depths of the mountains. The installations along the way are surprising and sometimes eerie, telling of the work of miners and the discoveries of archaeologists. The fortified corridors become deeper and narrower, and after two descents you find yourself on the banks of a salt lake. Its surface is so still that it is difficult to find the border between water and solid rock. When the backlight is switched on, the scene becomes truly alien.
The way out of the cave is on a trolley. The narrow bench you sit on is reminiscent of a children's merry-go-round. Another surprise awaits you at the end of the mine: a photo of your descent at maximum speed (you can buy it). The souvenir shop sells Hallstatt salt and spice mixtures. If you're feeling adventurous, you can walk down to the town on one of the three mountain paths instead of taking the cable car.
By purchasing a ticket to Salzwelten Hallstatt, visitors also support scientific research at the site. In July and August, a 'Prehistoric Expedition' is offered to guests with a particular interest in history. Accompanied by archaeologists, this four-hour tour takes visitors through the prehistoric part of the mine and offers fascinating insights away from the usual sightseeing routes.
Note that the tour is in English or German, but an audio guide is also available.
Important: Children over the age of 4 can visit the mine. You must be at the funicular station 30 minutes before the start of the tour.
