Caves around Raabs an der Thaya are located in the Waldviertel region of Austria, presenting a mix of natural rock formations and historical underground sites. The area features unique geological formations along the Moravian Thaya river. Visitors can explore various subterranean locations, including impressive rock shelters and historical cellars. These sites offer insights into both natural processes and past human activities.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
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Popular around Raabs an der Thaya
Outside of Großau, between Überland and Waldhaus, there are 2 ice cellars hidden in the forest, which are the subject of numerous stories. One tells of 5 defensive towers that are said to have once existed here. A brick vault is said to have been built on top of the rest of the 2 towers. In any case, the two covered shafts were used as ice cellars by the local butchers/inns. In order to extract the ice blocks, "ice rights" were granted on the ponds. There is no path to this well-preserved cellar; you have to climb over the stream and up the steep slope to get to the entrance. Be careful, access to the deep shaft of the ice cellar is not secured, danger of falling!
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An impressive natural monument in the forest.
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If you start from Raabs, you will be greeted at the beginning of the path along the Moravian Thaya by an impressive rock that towers over the path like a large roof. There is a figure of the Virgin Mary in a grotto.
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An inconspicuous rock formation that houses the "Dragon's Cave".
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It is worth driving a little (100 meters) along the Moravian Dyje along the hiking trail to the rocky outcrop. An idyllic place on the beautiful shore hiking trail
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Not only the interesting underground passage should be planned to stay. The associated inn also has an absolute recommendation. Good kitchen and friendly staff.
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This really idyllic place is a bit off the bike path, under a large rocky outcrop, directly on the Deutsche Thaya. The place is called "Unteres Hackelstein Felsdach". Up to this point you can easily cycle there. Just be careful with your head 😉. Then a single trail begins.
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The rock roof can be seen clearly in the gigantic boulder from the opposite bank. You have to climb up a few rubbed stones to get to the spot.
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The Haidl-Keller in Thaya is a notable historical site, a large cellar that is uniquely flooded and can be navigated by boat. It offers a glimpse into historical storage practices. Additionally, the Ice Cellar Near Großau, hidden in the forest, served as an ice cellar for local butchers and inns, with stories of its connection to old defensive towers.
Yes, the Drachenhöhle (Dragon Cave) is an inconspicuous rock formation mentioned in regional literature, specifically in the book "The Predigtstuhl - The Mystical Guardian of the Waldviertel," suggesting it holds cultural or legendary importance in the area.
Along the Moravian Thaya river, you can discover the Raabs Riverside Cave, an impressive rock formation that towers over the path like a large roof and features a figure of the Virgin Mary in a grotto. Further along, the Lower Hackelstein Rock Shelter is another natural monument with a wooden bench protected under a rocky outcrop, offering an idyllic spot on the riverside hiking trail.
The region around Raabs an der Thaya is characterized by a blend of natural rock formations and historical underground features. While not known for extensive karst cave systems with stalactites and stalagmites, it offers impressive rock shelters, river-carved grottos, and man-made cellars that utilize natural underground conditions, such as the flooded Haidl-Keller.
Yes, the Raabs Riverside Cave is considered family-friendly. Its location along the path by the Moravian Thaya makes it easily accessible for a pleasant walk, and the grotto with the figure of the Virgin Mary adds an interesting point of discovery for all ages.
The area around Raabs an der Thaya offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, such as those found in the Cycling around Raabs an der Thaya guide, or embark on mountain biking adventures with trails detailed in the MTB Trails around Raabs an der Thaya guide. There are also gravel biking opportunities, as highlighted in the Gravel biking around Raabs an der Thaya guide, allowing you to combine cave visits with scenic rides.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The impressive rock formations along the Moravian Thaya, like the Lower Hackelstein Rock Shelter with its idyllic bench, offer peaceful spots. The unique historical insights provided by sites like the Haidl-Keller also draw interest, showcasing past human activities and ingenuity.
Yes, the Raabs Riverside Cave is publicly accessible. It is located along a path by the Moravian Thaya, making it easy to visit as part of a riverside walk.
The Haidl-Keller in Thaya is known for its unique feature of being flooded due to a connection with an old well, allowing visitors to navigate it by boat. Its considerable size and historical use as a storage space also make it an interesting site. Specific tour or access details should be confirmed locally.
The natural rock formations and riverside sites like the Raabs Riverside Cave and Lower Hackelstein Rock Shelter are enjoyable during spring, summer, and autumn when the weather is mild for walking and exploring the surrounding nature. For underground sites like the Haidl-Keller, the cool, constant temperatures make them accessible year-round, though specific access might vary seasonally.
Yes, the Lower Hackelstein Rock Shelter is located directly on the beautiful riverside hiking trail known as the Tut gut Route 2. This makes it a convenient stop for hikers exploring the Moravian Thaya riverbanks.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Raabs an der Thaya: