Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs Kaprun
Experience the awe-inspiring turquoise waters of Kaprun's high mountain reservoirs, nestled amidst dramatic alpine peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant colors
Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs Kaprun
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring turquoise waters of Kaprun's high mountain reservoirs, nestled amidst dramatic alpine peaks.
"The blue water in this reservoir makes this place unnaturally beautiful!"
Pack for all weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Zell am See-Kaprun Card
Consider the summer card for free access to transport & attractions. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mooserboden Reservoir
Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs
Mesmerizing turquoise water against rugged peaks. A truly unforgettable alpine panorama.
+1
Wasserfallboden Reservoir
Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs
Stunning blue waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped Alps. A photographer's dream.
+1
Inclined Lift Ride
Transfer to reservoirs
Experience Europe's steepest open inclined lift for breathtaking panoramic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Reservoirs
+1Best Time for Views & Crowds
+1 Avoid peak summer weekends for fewer crowds. Check weather forecasts as mountain conditions can change rapidly. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Zell am See-Kaprun Card
Consider the summer card for free access to transport & attractions. :ticket:
Dam Tours Available
Learn about the 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit and dam operations. :information_desk:
Stroller Friendly Paths
The dam walk is accessible for strollers, making it family-friendly. :baby:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Zell am See-Kaprun Card
Consider the summer card for free access to transport & attractions. :ticket:
Dam Tours Available
Learn about the 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit and dam operations. :information_desk:
Stroller Friendly Paths
The dam walk is accessible for strollers, making it family-friendly. :baby:
Hike to Heinrich Schwaiger Haus
For experienced hikers, a challenging 2-hour trek offers incredible views. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, particularly the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the reservoirs set against majestic alpine peaks. The unique journey via bus and inclined lift adds to the adventure. While dining options might be basic, the natural beauty is the undeniable star, making it a highly recommended day trip for its unforgettable views and sense of tranquility.
"Kaprun is a truly enchanting place, especially the area near the high-mountain dam surrounded by stunning alpine peaks.
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking — majestic mountains, crystal-clear air, and a sense of calm that stays with you.
We had an amazing time here with our colleagues: great views, great energy, and moments we’ll definitely remember.
Perfect spot to relax, recharge, and just enjoy nature at its best.
Highly recommended!"
Andrey Tsumanets
"Absolutely beautiful place.
Do not expect any fine-dining experience if you want to eat there and avoid the Limoncello spritz (it was terrible). But the views and nature was perfect and that’s the main reason to visit of course. :-)"
Lucie Špačková
"The blue water in this reservoir makes this place unnaturally beautiful! The reservoir is reachable by a bus. A lift and another bus. Total ride is like 20 minutes, the view from the buses and lift is breathtaking.
The dam itself is like a bridge where people can walk and enjoy the view from the reservoir of the both sides. Even possible to go with strollers. There are restaurants up there, so also possible to eat and drink and toilets are also available.
Overall a great place to visit, highly recommended."
Farhana Afroje
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is via a multi-step journey. First, take a bus from the Kesselfall car park. Then, board Europe's steepest inclined lift, followed by another bus to reach the reservoirs.
Yes, there is a Kesselfall car park where you can leave your vehicle before starting the transfer to the reservoirs.
No, private vehicles are not allowed beyond the Kesselfall car park. The journey requires using the designated bus and inclined lift system.
The inclined lift used for accessing the Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs is renowned as Europe's steepest open inclined lift, offering a unique and scenic ascent.
The entire transfer process, including the bus rides and the inclined lift, typically takes around 20 minutes, providing continuous scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need tickets for the bus and inclined lift transfer to access the reservoirs. These can often be purchased as part of a package or with the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card.
The Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card is a visitor card that often includes free use of the transfer buses and inclined lift to the reservoirs, along with other local attractions and transport.
Yes, guided dam tours are available, and there's also an 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit to explore.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs website for the most current information on opening times for the reservoirs and the transfer system.
The paths on the dam itself are generally accessible with strollers, making it a feasible option for families with young children.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the stunning turquoise waters of the Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden reservoirs, enjoy panoramic mountain views, walk on the dam walls, and explore the 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit.
Yes, there are scenic hiking trails offering various difficulty levels. For a challenging hike, consider the route to the Heinrich Schwaiger Haus.
The water in the reservoirs is famously a mesmerizing, vibrant turquoise color, a result of glacial meltwater and rock flour.
Yes, there are restaurants available at the top of the reservoirs where you can eat and drink.
This exhibit provides insights into the hydroelectric power generation and the unique environment of the high mountain reservoirs.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam walls offer incredible vantage points for capturing the turquoise water against the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Absolutely! The natural beauty is stunning, and even smartphone cameras can capture breathtaking shots of the reservoirs and surrounding peaks.
While beautiful throughout the day, mornings often offer clearer skies and softer light. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be spectacular.
Don't miss capturing the contrast between the vibrant blue water and the rugged, often snow-capped, mountains. The inclined lift ride also provides unique photo angles.
Landscape photography is very popular, focusing on the dramatic alpine scenery, the unique water color, and the impressive dam structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The unique turquoise water and dramatic mountain landscapes make every step a visual delight. Remember to pack appropriate gear and check trail conditions before setting out. 📸 Photographers
+2 Capture the grandeur of the dams, the reflections in the water, and the panoramic vistas. The journey on the inclined lift also provides unique photographic angles. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to the Peaks
+1Many visitors find the transfer process exciting and a great way to build anticipation for the stunning scenery that awaits. The views from the buses and the inclined lift are often highlighted as a significant part of the overall experience, showcasing the vastness of the alpine landscape.
It's important to factor in the time for these transfers when planning your visit. While the actual travel time between stages is relatively short, the entire process requires a bit of patience and planning, especially during peak season.
A Symphony of Turquoise and Peaks
+2Visitors often describe the scenery as 'unnaturally beautiful' and 'magical.' The sheer scale of the dams and the vastness of the surrounding mountains instill a sense of awe. Walking along the dam walls provides panoramic views, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this spectacular alpine environment.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the area offers opportunities for exploration. Hiking trails cater to various fitness levels, from gentle walks along the reservoir edges to more challenging treks into the higher alpine terrain. The 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit also offers a chance to learn about the engineering marvels behind these reservoirs.
+1The Shadow of the Kaprun Disaster
This event cast a shadow over the area and serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers in mountain environments. While the reservoirs themselves were not directly involved in the disaster, the memory of the Kaprun disaster is a significant part of the region's history.
Today, the focus is on the natural beauty and recreational opportunities the reservoirs offer, with safety measures in place for visitors. The 'Electricity & Ice' exhibit at the reservoirs provides information about the region's energy production, a different facet of its history and development.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit