Groppensteinschlucht, Natural gorge in Obervellach, Austria.
Groppensteinschlucht is a natural gorge in Obervellach with steep rock walls and multiple waterfalls flowing through it. The tallest waterfall, Zechnerfall, drops about 40 meters and serves as the focal point of the passage.
The gorge formed during the ice age when glacial activity carved deep erosions into the landscape. Water and ice worked over thousands of years to shape the rocks into their present form.
The name Groppensteinschlucht comes from the neighboring Groppenstein Castle, located where the Mallnitzbach river meets the Möll. This connection shapes how locals and visitors understand the place within its wider surroundings.
The gorge is accessible from May through October when weather and water conditions are safe for visitors. Sturdy footwear and care on wet surfaces are important for a comfortable visit.
A wooden and steel staircase was installed directly on the sheer rock walls in 2011, leading to an observation platform near Zechnerfall. This structure allows visitors to get much closer to the tallest waterfall than would otherwise be possible.
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