While reading the Lezec, I have realized that there are plenty of bouldering articles.

However I thing that now is more convenient to talk about snow and it's an opportune moment to concern blue icicles and bloody low temperature.

Despite that there is hardly any snow at the south side of the Alps, we can invite you there for excellent ice climbing because of superb ice conditions.


Cathedral

Well known ice climbing area in the south of Austria seems to be the Maltatal, the narrow valley of Malta river not far from the highway Klagenfurt-Salzburg near the Gmund. In the valley thera are plenty of icefalls from one meter to 400meters long. There are hard as well as easier stuff. Briefly for everyone.


Cathedral

For detailed information check these links, which contains practical information about Maltatal climbing spots, equipment, as well as compelling latest news and great photography.

(www.planetmountain.com/English/Ice/austria/maltatal/index.html,
www.maltatal-alpin.at/english/index_e.htm),
There is also quite detailed topo book available.


Cathedral

No camping is allowed up there. Anyway if you’d keep along the rules that your stay would be restrict strictly during the night (with early get up) and wouldn’t leave any trash shouldn’t be a problem to sleep there. Please note that you shouldn’t continue up from the tollgate (as many do), this is private road and it is therefore illegal to drive up the road.
Chains are highly recommended in the area, as the road is not cleared and often icy. Access is about 40min from the tollgate.


Gamseck and Wintasun

The “Maltatal” is a ideal place for novices and experts alike.