Mine salt mine in Hallstätter remains closed until June

Expanding Capacity of the Recently Established Salt Mine Railway

, and Administrator

2025 September 12 . 11:01 AM

2 min read

Salt mine Hallstätter remains closed until June.

Mine salt mine in Hallstätter remains closed until June

In the picturesque Austrian town of Hallstatt, a new chapter is about to be written in its rich history. The Salt Mountain Railway, a beloved attraction, has temporarily closed its doors since Monday, making way for a modern and accessible replacement.

The new funicular, set to be completed in 2026, will be a significant upgrade from its predecessor. Designed to resemble salt crystals, it will not only blend seamlessly with the town's salt-mining heritage but also offer a more efficient and barrier-free transportation solution. The new funicular will be capable of transporting 60 people per trip, a marked increase from the current 24.

The architect behind this innovative project is Andreas Haller. The funicular is a joint venture with Salt Worlds, Hasenauer.Architekten, and Doppelmayr Group, ensuring a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

The new funicular will offer more than just a means of transport. At the top station, visitors will find a viewing terrace providing a panoramic view of Hallstatt town and the Hallstatt Lake. The valley station will be rebuilt, featuring a large souvenir shop for tourists to take a piece of Hallstatt home with them.

The funicular will transport tourists up to the Hallstatt Salt Mountain, a site that has been mined for approximately 7,000 years. Archaeological findings in Hallstatt indicate signs of a settlement dating back 7,500 years, suggesting a structured, organized, and good life at that time. The Salt Worlds Hallstatt offers a glimpse into bronze-age mining 400 meters underground.

The estimated cost of this ambitious project is 25 million euros. Despite this, the cable car industry in Austria has shown a promising recovery, with initial entries reaching 49.7 million and cash sales totalling 1.96 billion euros in 2024, according to the cable car association chairman Hörl. This successful season has raised questions about skiing in families due to migration.

On August 12, findings from the archaeological site in Hallstatt will be presented, offering more insights into the town's fascinating history. As the completion date for the new funicular approaches, the anticipation grows for this exciting new addition to Hallstatt.