Alte Saline Bad Reichenhall
Historic saltworks and salt museum- Permanently closed until 11/25/26
- Bad Reichenhall
The magnificent historic brick building of Alte Saline, Bad Reichenhall's former royal saltworks, is worth a visit in its own right. But once you catch a glimpse of the enormous waterwheels through the windows, you'll want to venture deeper into the underground tunnels and discover the fascinating technology once used to extract salt-rich brine.
Alte Saline in the Alpine town of Bad Reichenhall may well be the most beautiful historic saltworks in the world. One thing is certain: This landmark of European industrial heritage is the only royal saltworks of its kind, commissioned by King Ludwig I of Bavaria himself in 1837. At the heart of the impressive brick complex stands the main well house, featuring the Neo-Romanesque Brunnhaus Chapel. Much of what you'll see here remains just as it was 150 years ago, including the enormous waterwheels that have been turning continuously ever since. Beneath Alte Saline lies an extensive underground labyrinth of dark tunnels and mysterious grottos waiting to be explored.
Home of the AlpenSole therapeutic brine spring
In 1929, production of Bad Reichenhall Alpine Salt moved to Neue Saline, the town's newer saltworks. But the historic waterwheels at Alte Saline continue to pump mineral-rich brine from deep underground. Today, this natural saltwater solution is used exclusively for therapeutic and wellness purposes, playing an important role in Bad Reichenhall's reputation as a renowned Bavarian spa town.
Guided tour of the old saltworks
Step back in time at Alte Saline Bad Reichenhall and discover the fascinating history of salt production. On a guided tour through the extensive underground tunnel system, you'll explore a hidden world beneath the historic saltworks.
Your journey begins in the machinery hall, where enormous waterwheels have been turning for generations. From there, descend into the mountain and follow a network of historic tunnels. The approximately 400-meter route includes 270 steps, so be prepared for plenty of stairs!
Along the way, you'll pass historic drive rods and mechanical levers before reaching some of the tour's most fascinating highlights: the historic salt grotto, the Karl Theodor Pump, and a relief depicting Elector Karl Theodor.
Finally, return to the surface through the main well shaft, where you can explore the Salt and Brand Museum and browse the salt shop.
