Sigmund Thun Gorge Mystical world of water in the Kaprun gorge
The Kapruner Ache has carved its way over 30 metres deep and 320 metres in length through the Kaprun Valley. The water begins its journey on the glaciers and mountains high above the Kaprun Valley and then plunges inexorably towards the valley. Through rock and stone, the untamed force of the water has shaped the Sigmund Thun Gorge: an atmospheric, almost mystical place, a spectacle of nature and an excursion destination that should be a must on your to-do list.
Striking rock formations, roaring water
Huge masses of water stream through the gorge every year, especially in spring, when the snow on the mountains melts. That's why this sight still changes its face again and again: because the water smooths the striking rock faces and creates new pools and potholes time and again.
Your tour through the Sigmund Thun Gorge
The gorge is accessible via specially constructed boardwalks and bridges: walking time is about 30 minutes. But take your time on the way to marvel at this world of water! At the upper end of the Sigmund Thun Gorge, you will reach the Klammsee Reservoir, which can be circumnavigated along a footpath. There is a Kneipp facility, a playground and refreshments at the Klammseestüberl. This excursion is also easily doable with children, but not suitable for prams and wheelchairs due to the wooden steps.
The history of the gorge in Kaprun
During your tour, you will delve deeply into the history of the Sigmund Thun Gorge: the gorge was made accessible via a wooden footbridge, according to the plans of Nikolaus Gaßner, as early as 1893. The gorge was named after the Salzburg governor of the time, Sigmund Count von Thun. On his first visit to the gorge, he coined the phrase, "Thunderous and mighty the torrents flow towards us".
The gorge was declared a natural monument as early as 1934. Only four years later, however, the footbridge was abandoned because hydroelectric power was to be used to generate electricity in the Kaprun Valley. It was not until the beginning of 1990 that the footbridge - which, by the way, is partly dismantled every winter - was rebuilt in the Sigmund Thun Gorge along the former route.
Events in the Sigmund Thun Gorge
Today, the gorge is a popular attraction in Zell am See-Kaprun as well as a venue for events full of atmosphere: From Gorgeous Lights to the Mystical Night of Water, summer events for the whole family are always on the agenda.
