Cave trekking through Kreidelucke in Pyhrn-Priel, Upper Austria
It was already pitch dark after a few steps. No movement could be made out any more and all my other senses sharpened. I tried to construe every sound. How long would it go on like this? When would I be able to see where I was going again? Why didn’t I ask about it before we started? I didn’t feel uneasy but it wasn’t comfortable either. But it started being fun after a while!
Today it is my pleasure to take you to the region of Pyhrn-Priel and to participate in a particularly nerve wrecking activity: cave trekking! You may think that it doesn’t sound exciting but keep on reading and find out for yourself 😉
Cave explorer for the day
The Kreidelucke is a cave in Upper Austria (my new home! 🙂 ) and it’s full of nooks and crannies just waiting to be explored. I absolutely loved cave diving in Mexico and I decided I wanted to explore caves without my diving equitment or getting wet. Said. Signed up. Done.
My boyfriend Jörg and I joined a group of other brave adventurers from Bavaria. We had to slip on neoprene suits and shoes before getting on the bus. Little did we know how much we would need proper gear.
The hike to the Kreidelucke is fairly easy and absolutely stunning. You get to see waterfalls, canyons, forests, … Aw, Austria, I am glad to be able to call you my home!
We passed this sign:
and then this one:
We spent about three hours trekking in the cave. We eventually got used to the darkness and more confident about where to step. Mind your head tho! Don’t get up too fast, you don’t want to bump your head on the rocks above you.
We were glad to have been given proper trekking gear because we spent a lot of time crawling around on our knees or wading through waist deep, ice-cold water. We also got to climb up a natural rock chimney. You should not be claustrophobic or have a fear of the dark but also do not overestimate your abilities. Be cautious – accidents happen quickly. I had so much fun doing the trek and I cannot wait to go on a longer cave trek in the very near future.
Further info
- IMPORTANT: don’t take this trip if you are claustrophobic or have a fear of the dark.
- surefootedness is important
- Do not attempt this tour solo or without a guide. It is very easy to lose orientation and you won’t have phone signal in the mountain
- Equipment: neoprene suit, neoprene shoes, helmet and head lights (provided)
- Do bring your own towel and bathing suit/pants
- You can book this and other – even more challenging – tours with Pro Adventure.
Note: Many thanks to Region Pyhrn-Priel for inviting us on this adventure!
