Abenteuer Erzberg

The Styrian Erzberg. Ore mining. Science & research. Sport. These are the keywords that stand for the Styrian Erzberg. The Erzberg is the largest open-pit mine in Central Europe, the most significant ore deposit in the Alps, a symbol of industrialization, and a central component of the Iron Road. For more than 1300 years, rock has been mined at the Styrian Erzberg. And the hard work of many men and women brought it to its current form starting in 1890. Today, a total of 12 million tons of rock are produced annually in the terraced open-pit mine using state-of-the-art technology. The annual quantity of 3 million tons of pure iron ore delivered is entirely sent to the two main customers, voestalpine Stahl Donawitz GmbH & Co KG and voestalpine AG, based in Linz. Through investments, technical innovations, and a high-quality product, the site is secured for the next decades. And with the help of successful cooperations, for example with Montanuniversität Leoben and the research project “Zentrum am Berg”, VA Erzberg positions itself as a global player in the network of innovative companies.Adventurous rides with the largest taxi in the world: The Hauly Guests get to know the Erzberg on a taxi ride of a different kind. In the Hauly, a converted heavy-duty truck with 1217 HP, you drive right through the open-pit mine. Along the terraces of the Erzberg, passengers reach the most remote parts of the mountain. From the viewing platform, passengers can watch miners at their daily work. The events at the Erzberg are always particularly eventful on Thursdays, as a live blasting even takes place then. Tip: With a combi-tour, you can experience the authentic open-pit mine up close and discover the underground labyrinth of the Erzberg. Mystical Show Mine On a tour through the show mine, guests get to know the underground labyrinth of the Erzberg and the working world of the miners in the past and present. They also learn interesting facts about the history of the Erzberg's formation – and about the mysterious legend of a merman: He is said to have lived in a grotto near Leopoldsteiner See and was held captive by the people of Eisenerz. He tried to regain his freedom by offering the iron from the Erzberg. Those who want to try their hand as a miner can try their skills at filling hoppers, reaming needles, and compressed-air-powered hand drills. Open-air exhibition Oswaldirücken The extensive area of the Oswaldirücken open-air exhibition, located at 878 meters above sea level, invites you to an eventful walk directly on the Erzberg. Along the Styrian Iron Road, winding paths lead over a green hill. Visitors discover historical witnesses of mining from the 18th century. The following exhibits can be viewed: a water basin, a 1,000-meter stone, shaft cranes, shovel loaders, electric excavators, and much more.The Erzberg, a place with an exciting present The Erzberg and the town of Eisenerz have a rich past and a unique treasure of nature and cultural landscapes. Not least because of this, the largest pyramid in the world is an attraction for numerous tourists. But athletes have also discovered it! Gripping scenes from the toughest and most famous off-road motorcycle race in the world – the Erzbergrodeo – are broadcast year after year via TV and show how the world's best hard enduro motorcyclists bite their teeth on the iron mountain. The Red Bull Hare Scramble, in particular, is a spectacle of a special class for spectators. The attractive dominance and uniqueness of the Erzberg are also popular motifs in art. Numerous works from the fields of painting, photography, and film art bear witness to this. Learn more: Abenteuer Erzberg

Opening hours & season

• 01.05.2026 – 31.10.2026daily08:30–16:30