Marina Bay Sands: A Landmark of Luxury and Innovation in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands a colossal integrated resort located in the heart of Singapore, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city-state. This architectural marvel combines luxury, entertainment, shopping, dining, and breathtaking views. Since its opening in 2010, Marina Bay Sands has become a global symbol of modernity, offering an unparalleled experience to both visitors and locals. Here’s a detailed exploration of the many facets that make Marina Bay Sands a must-visit destination.

Architecture and Design

The striking design of Marina Bay Sands is the brainchild of architect Moshe Safdie. The resort consists of three interconnected towers that are each 55 stories tall. The most remarkable feature of the complex is the Sky Park, a massive rooftop that connects the three towers and extends beyond them. The Sky Park’s design is inspired by a boat resting on the three towers, and it features a 150-meter infinity pool, gardens, observation deck, and dining options. The Sky Park itself is an engineering marvel and provides stunning panoramic views of the Singapore skyline and Marina Bay.

The towers are made of glass and steel, with a sleek, futuristic design that blends seamlessly into the cityscape. The space between the towers forms a huge public area, featuring lush landscaping and various water features that add a touch of nature to the urban environment.

Marina Bay Sands Hotel

The Marina Bay Sands Hotel offers over 2,500 rooms and suites, each designed with contemporary elegance and luxury. Guests can choose from a wide range of accommodations, from deluxe rooms to the opulent Presidential Suites.

The rooms feature large windows, offering spectacular views of the city, the bay, or the surrounding gardens. The hotel’s service is top-notch, with every detail meticulously crafted to ensure guests have a comfortable and unforgettable stay. With an exclusive spa, a wide range of dining options, and personalized service, Marina Bay Sands is the epitome of luxury.

Infinity Pool and SkyPark

Arguably the most famous feature of Marina Bay Sands, the Infinity Pool on the Sky Park is the world’s highest elevated swimming pool, perched 191 meters above ground level. The pool offers guests a surreal experience, allowing them to swim while enjoying spectacular views of the Singapore skyline, the Gardens by the Bay, and beyond.

The pool is reserved exclusively for hotel guests, ensuring an exclusive and peaceful environment. The Sky Park, open to the public for a small fee, is a popular destination for visitors who want to soak in the magnificent 360-degree views of the city.

Shopping and Dining

Marina Bay Sands is home to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, an ultra-luxury retail mall that spans over 800,000 square feet. The mall features high-end international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, and Prada, alongside world-class boutiques and local retailers. It also offers a canal running through the center, where visitors can enjoy a tranquil gondola ride, adding a touch of Venetian romance to the experience.

For dining, Marina Bay Sands boasts an impressive range of options. The resort features a star-studded lineup of celebrity chefs, including Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, and Tetsuya Wakuda, ensuring a gastronomic experience like no other. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual eateries, or international cuisines, Marina Bay Sands offers something for every palate. Notable spots include CUT (by Wolfgang Puck), Waku Ghin (by Tetsuya Wakuda), and Bread Street Kitchen (by Gordon Ramsay).

Arts and Culture: ArtScience Museum

One of the most unique cultural attractions at Marina Bay Sands is the ArtScience Museum, a lotus-shaped building designed by architect Moshe Safdie. The museum is a fusion of art, science, culture, and technology, with exhibitions that range from contemporary art to futuristic technology displays. Its distinctive architecture, with its ten "petals," symbolizes the intersection of these disciplines.

The museum regularly hosts world-class exhibitions, from acclaimed international artists to scientific explorations, making it a center for innovation and creativity in Singapore. The museum’s digital installations and interactive exhibits attract visitors of all ages, sparking curiosity and wonder.

Theatres and Entertainment

Marina Bay Sands is not just a luxury hotel and shopping destination – it’s also a hub for world-class entertainment. The Theatre at Marina Bay Sands hosts international Broadway productions, concerts, dance performances, and much more. Over the years, it has welcomed some of the most renowned performers and performances from around the globe.

The resort also boasts Clarke Quay and other entertainment venues that offer a wide variety of events, performances, and nightlife options. With its vibrant atmosphere, visitors can enjoy everything from live music to theater and dance.

 

Meetings, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE)

Marina Bay Sands is also known for its state-of-the-art conference and event facilities. The resort is a leading venue for meetings, conventions, and exhibitions in Asia. The Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre offers over 120,000 square meters of flexible meeting space, making it one of the largest convention centers in Asia.

Its world-class facilities, combined with the resort's luxury offerings, make Marina Bay Sands the preferred choice for global business events, conferences, and trade shows. With excellent connectivity, modern technology, and a variety of dining and accommodation options, it is the perfect setting for any corporate gathering.

Gardens by the Bay

Adjacent to Marina Bay Sands is the iconic Gardens by the Bay, a 101-hectare garden that is a must-see attraction in Singapore. Connected to the resort by a bridge, the gardens feature the famous Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest. Visitors can stroll through this futuristic garden and explore its stunning plant life, artificial waterfalls, and climate-controlled biomes.

The proximity to Gardens by the Bay offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the panoramic views of the gardens and the Marina Bay skyline are unforgettable.

Sustainability Efforts

Marina Bay Sands is also committed to sustainability, incorporating green initiatives across its operations. The resort features energy-efficient systems, water conservation efforts, and waste management practices. It is a LEED-certified building, a recognition of its eco-friendly design and operations. The resort's landscaping, including the SkyPark’s gardens and green roofs, further contribute to its environmental commitment.

A Unique Experience

In conclusion, Marina Bay Sands is not just a hotel or a mall; it’s an all-encompassing experience that defines Singapore's luxury, modernity, and commitment to innovation. Whether you're visiting for a stay, enjoying a fine dining experience, attending a concert, or simply taking in the view from the SkyPark, Marina Bay Sands offers something for everyone. It continues to shape Singapore’s skyline and position as a global leader in tourism, offering visitors an unforgettable experience that blends luxury, technology, and design.

For those seeking a truly memorable adventure in Singapore, Marina Bay Sands is the epitome of the country's vision for the future of integrated resorts.

History and Development

Marina Bay Sands was conceived as part of Singapore’s efforts to transform itself into a global tourism and business hub. The project was developed by Las Vegas Sands, a prominent casino and resort operator, under the leadership of Sheldon Adelson. The design was inspired by the idea of creating a world-class integrated resort with a unique identity that could elevate Singapore’s reputation as a destination for luxury tourism and entertainment.

The construction of Marina Bay Sands began in 2007, and the resort opened its doors in 2010, marking the culmination of over three years of work and investment. The project faced its fair share of challenges, including cost overruns, but once completed, it quickly became an iconic structure and a symbol of Singapore’s rapid economic development and aspirations for innovation.

Marina Bay Sands was designed not only as a hotel and entertainment complex but also as a catalyst for economic growth and cultural tourism, providing jobs, fostering trade, and attracting tourists from around the world.

SkyPark: A Hub of Activities

The SkyPark is a versatile space offering more than just spectacular views. This unique 12,400-square-meter space is home to several recreational and dining amenities, making it a hub for relaxation and leisure. Beyond the infinity pool, it features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and even an observation deck that allows guests to view the city from a 360-degree vantage point.

The SkyPark is also an ideal venue for events, including private parties, corporate events, and weddings. The panoramic views make it a breathtaking location for any occasion. One of the standout features of the SkyPark is the “Rooftop Garden”, a tranquil green space offering lush foliage and a serene atmosphere. The park provides a quiet escape from the city's hustle and bustle while maintaining the elevated urban experience that Marina Bay Sands is known for.

The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

For those not staying at the hotel but wishing to experience the iconic views, the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck offers an opportunity to soak in the spectacular sights of Singapore from above. At 200 meters above ground, the deck provides stunning vistas of the city skyline, the Singapore River, and even the nearby islands.

Visitors can also spot famous landmarks like the Singapore Flyer (a giant Ferris wheel), the Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island. The observatory is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike, providing an unmatched aerial perspective of one of the most stunning cityscapes in the world.

ArtScience Museum: The Intersection of Creativity

The ArtScience Museum located at Marina Bay Sands is more than just a museum—it’s a place where art meets technology, science, and culture. Its lotus-shaped design, with its ten "petals," represents the convergence of these various fields, making the building itself an art piece.

Inside, visitors can explore exhibitions that explore themes such as innovation, design, nature, and digital creativity. The museum hosts traveling exhibitions from some of the world’s leading cultural institutions, alongside its own installations. One of the most notable exhibits is Future World, a digital art exhibition that combines art and technology, immersing visitors in a world of interactive installations.

In addition to exhibitions, the museum organizes public programs, workshops, and events that cater to audiences of all ages. This educational aspect of the museum emphasizes the significance of creativity and science in shaping the future.

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Events and Lifestyle Experiences

Marina Bay Sands offers an ever-evolving range of lifestyle experiences designed to enhance the guest experience beyond traditional resort offerings. Throughout the year, special events are held on the SkyPark, including seasonal celebrations, movie screenings, and outdoor fitness events. The resort is known to host exclusive poolside events, fashion shows, and high-profile parties, especially during major international events such as Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix.

The resort’s nightlife is also world-class, with venues like CÉ LA VI, a rooftop bar and club located at the top of the SkyPark. Known for its vibrant ambiance, CÉ LA VI offers cocktails and music while overlooking the stunning Marina Bay area. It's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a sophisticated atmosphere to unwind while enjoying breathtaking views.

For those interested in wellness, Marina Bay Sands offers a variety of fitness and relaxation options. The Banyan Tree Spa, located on the 55th floor, offers a range of luxurious treatments, including traditional Asian massages and contemporary spa therapies. The spa’s elevated location makes it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate while taking in the views of the city below.

The Sands Theatre and Entertainment

Marina Bay Sands is a hotspot for performing arts, hosting both international and local productions. The Sands Theatre is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and has become one of Singapore's most celebrated venues for Broadway shows, musicals, operas, and more.

Over the years, Marina Bay Sands has hosted major productions such as The Lion King, Les Misérables, Chicago, and Wicked, making it a central part of Singapore's cultural landscape. The Theatre is designed to accommodate large-scale performances, offering exceptional acoustics and sightlines for an enhanced viewing experience.

Beyond theater performances, the resort often hosts live concerts, comedy shows, and other entertainment events, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers, theater enthusiasts, and tourists.

Business and Corporate Amenities

Marina Bay Sands has established itself as a key destination for business professionals with its Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, one of Asia’s largest and most modern convention centers. This 120,000-square-meter venue offers versatile exhibition halls, meeting rooms, and ballrooms, with the latest technologies for large-scale events, conventions, and conferences.

The convention center regularly hosts global trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions, drawing professionals from industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, and more. The resort’s world-class facilities, combined with its luxurious accommodation and dining options, make it an ideal destination for corporate events, meetings, and incentive travel.

Environmental and Sustainable Design

Sustainability is a core value at Marina Bay Sands, and the resort has taken several measures to minimize its environmental impact. The entire complex was built with a focus on energy efficiency and resource conservation. Green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems help to manage water consumption, and the use of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems reduces the resort's carbon footprint.

The development also incorporates sustainable landscaping, with native plant species used throughout the gardens and public spaces to enhance biodiversity. The resort actively participates in eco-tourism and sustainability education, offering programs to promote environmental awareness and conservation.

A Global Icon of Singapore

Marina Bay Sands has become synonymous with Singapore’s transformation into a global hub for business, tourism, and entertainment. It has reshaped the Singapore skyline and redefined what a modern, integrated resort can be. Whether you are visiting for business, pleasure, or a unique blend of both, Marina Bay Sands offers an experience that is world-class, innovative, and unforgettable.

As Singapore continues to evolve, Marina Bay Sands remains at the forefront of the city’s growth, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. The resort has set the bar high for integrated luxury resorts globally and continues to inspire architectural, cultural, and technological advancements in hospitality and entertainment.

Marina Bay Sands: A Destination for All

From its iconic architecture and luxury accommodations to its world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping, Marina Bay Sands is more than just a resort. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a shopping enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or simply someone seeking breathtaking views, Marina Bay Sands is a place where all your desires and curiosities can be satisfied in one unforgettable experience.

Visiting Marina Bay Sands is not just about enjoying a resort; it’s about immersing yourself in the spirit of Singapore's bold vision for the future, where innovation, luxury, and culture come together in perfect harmony.

Conclusion:

Marina Bay Sands stands as a testament to Singapore’s visionary approach to blending luxury, innovation, and culture into one iconic destination. More than just a hotel or resort, it is a symbol of the city-state’s ambition, showcasing cutting-edge architecture, world-class entertainment, and unmatched hospitality. From its awe-inspiring SkyPark with the world’s highest infinity pool to its vibrant arts and cultural offerings at the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands is not just a place to stay, but an experience in itself.

This integrated resort offers an all-encompassing journey for visitors of all interests—whether you are seeking luxury accommodations, indulging in high-end dining, enjoying top-tier entertainment, or simply soaking in stunning views of Singapore's skyline. It serves as a hub for business, leisure, and cultural exploration, creating a space where every detail has been meticulously designed to provide an extraordinary experience.

With its commitment to sustainability, cutting-edge design, and continuous innovation, Marina Bay Sands remains at the forefront of global hospitality and tourism. It’s a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression, capturing the spirit of modern Singapore and setting the standard for integrated resorts worldwide.

In every sense, Marina Bay Sands is a landmark not just in the city of Singapore, but in the world, inviting travelers and visitors to experience the very best of what the future holds in luxury, entertainment, and design. Whether you're visiting for a day or staying for an extended time, Marina Bay Sands will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Singapore adventure.

 For More Details = Marina Bay Sands

 

Dracaena Cinnabari (Dragon Blood Tree), Island of Socotra, Yemen

Dracaena Cinnabari, the Socotra dragon tree or dragon blood tree, is a dragon tree native to the Socotra archipelago, part of Yemen, located in the Arabian Sea. It is so called due to the red sap that the trees produce.

The dragon blood tree has a unique and strange appearance, with an "upturned, densely packed crown having the shape of an uprightly held umbrella". This evergreen species is named after its dark red resin, which is known as "dragon's blood". Unlike most monocot plants, Dracaena displays secondary growth, D. cinnabari even has growth zones resembling tree rings found in dicot tree species. Along with other arborescent Dracaena species it has a distinctive growth habit called "dracoid habitus". Its leaves are found only at the end of its youngest branches; its leaves are all shed every 3 or 4 years before new leaves simultaneously mature. Branching tends to occur when the growth of the terminal bud is stopped, due to either flowering or traumatic events.

Its fruits are small fleshy berries containing between 1 and 3 seeds. As they develop they turn from green to black, and then become orange when ripe. The berries are eaten by birds (e.g. Onychognatus species) and thereby dispersed. The seeds are 4–5 mm in diameter and weigh on average 68 mg. The berries exude a deep red resin, known as dragon’s blood.

Like other monocotyledons, such as palms, the dragon’s blood tree grows from the tip of the stem, with the long, stiff leaves borne in dense rosettes at the end (4, 5, 7). It branches at maturity to produce an umbrella-shaped crown, with leaves that measure up to 60 cm long and 3 cm wide. The trunk and the branches of the dragon blood are thick and stout and display dichotomous branching, where each of the branches repeatedly divides in two sections.

 

The dragon's blood tree usually produces its flowers around February, though flowering  does vary with location. The flowers tend to grow at the end of the branches. The flowers have  inflorescence, and they bear small clusters of fragrant, white or green flowers. The fruits take five months to  completely mature. The fruits are described as a fleshy berry, which changes from green to black as it gradually  ripens. The fleshy berry fruit ends up being an orange-red color that contains one to three seeds. The berries  are usually eaten and dispersed by birds and other animals.

The unusual shape of the dragon's blood tree is an adaptation for survival in arid conditions with low amounts of soil, such as in mountaintops. The large, packed crown provides shade and reduces evaporation. This shade also aids in the survival of seedlings growing beneath the adult  tree, explaining why the trees tend to grow closer together.

The first description of D. cinnabari was made during a survey of Socotra led by Lieutenant Wellsted of the East India Company in 1835. It was first named Pterocarpus draco, but in 1880, the Scottish botanist Isaac Bayley Balfour made a formal description of the species and renamed  it as Dracaena cinnabari. Of between 60 and 100 Dracaena species, D. cinnabari is one of only 6 species which grow as a tree.

The best preserved and largest stand of D. cinnabari is on the limestone  plateau named Rokeb di Firmihin. This approximately 540 hectares (1,300 acres) forest has numerous rare and endemic species. Research shows that in coming decades the number of trees in this forest will decrease due to the lack of natural regeneration.

For More Details - Dracaena Cinnabari

Discovering Moon Hill: A Natural Wonder in Yangshuo, China

Moon Hill is picturesque landscape of Yangshuo, China, Moon Hill is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts travelers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. This iconic karst formation is named after its distinctive moon-shaped hole near the summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you’re planning a visit to Yangshuo, Moon Hill should definitely be on your itinerary. 

 

A hill with a natural arch through it a few kilometers outside Yangshuo in southern China's Guangxi autonomous region. It is so named for a wide, semicircular hole through the hill, all that remains of what was once a limestone cave formed in the phreatic zone. Like most formations in the region, it is karst. It is also a popular tourist attraction.

In addition to a concrete tourist path which passes through the arch, and a somewhat rougher, steeper path leading to the summit above the arch, Moon Hill has several rock climbing routes, the first of which was climbed by Todd Skinner in the 1990s. It has also been used for abseils in several adventure races. Moon Hill offers some broad, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, which is characterized by the knobby karst hills found throughout the region. 

The Formation and Geology of Moon Hill:

Moon Hill is a limestone karst hill, formed millions of years ago through natural erosion. Over time, wind and water sculpted the mountain, creating the arch-like opening that resembles a crescent moon. Depending on your viewing angle and the time of day, the shape of the hole can appear as a full moon, half-moon, or crescent moon, adding to its mystique and allure.

Moon Hill is a huge piece of rock with a moon-shaped hole in its center. The 800 marble stairs called "Appreciating Moon Path" can lead you to the top of the hill and to get a close view of the Moon Cave. Like most karts caves, there are lots of peculiar shaped stalactites hanging on the ceiling of the Moon Cave. Some are like Buddha’s warrior attendants, some like the goddess of the moon and some like jade rabbits. When cycling passed Moon Hill, with the change of viewpoints, the Moon Cave will take on the different looks of a "full moon", "half moon" or "crescent moon".
 

Hiking to the Top:

For adventure seekers, the hike up Moon Hill is both rewarding and exhilarating. The well-paved trail consists of approximately 800 steps, leading visitors through lush vegetation and scenic viewpoints. Although the climb takes around 20–30 minutes, the effort is well worth it. At the top, you’ll be greeted with a stunning panoramic vista of Yangshuo’s rolling hills, verdant rice paddies, and winding rivers.

Rock Climbing and Adventure Activities:

Beyond hiking, Moon Hill is also a renowned rock-climbing destination. With various climbing routes ranging from beginner to advanced levels, it has become a hotspot for climbers seeking thrilling ascents against the backdrop of Yangshuo’s stunning landscape. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Moon Hill is also an great place for rock climbing. With 14 rock climbing routes on the north-west side, Moon Hill offers plenty of challenges for both amateur and professional climbers.  

The moon-shaped hole measures 50 m wide and 50 m tall, under the arch of which are stalactites of various shapes.The original tourist route is called, "To Moon Hill the local way". This ride is nice but it is now crowded with locals selling postcards, back rubbers, tacky souvenirs or you may get a local dressed up to look like a farmer. They are just posing to try to get you to take a photo for which they will want money. Some locals put coloured ribbons on water buffalo horns to also try to get you to take photos for money. We recommend that you do the bike ride late in the afternoon as many have gone home and you can avoid the hawkers. 

 

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Moon Hill is during the cooler months of spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing mesmerizing sunrise or sunset views.

How to Get Their:

Moon Hill is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Yangshuo town, making it easily accessible by bicycle, scooter, or taxi. Cycling to Moon Hill is a popular choice among travelers, as it allows for a scenic ride through Yangshuo’s countryside, passing by quaint villages and picturesque fields along the way. 

Another route that will take you to moon hill is the "new local way". This ride is a bit longer but there are no people tring to selling you anything on the way. This ride will give you a glimpse of the rural lifestyle. You can also take in the old village of  Long tang or have lunch at the Mountain Retreat which is situated on the Yulong river and has stunning views.

Nearby Attractions:

While visiting Moon Hill, consider exploring other nearby attractions such as:

• Big Banyan Tree: A centuries-old banyan tree known for its sprawling branches and cultural significance.

• Yulong River: A serene river perfect for bamboo rafting and leisurely boat rides.

• Silver Cave: A mesmerizing underground cave filled with dazzling stalactites and stalagmites.

Moon Hill is more than just a scenic landmark; it’s a gateway to the beauty and adventure that Yangshuo has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiking enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Moon Hill promises an unforgettable experience. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this incredible natural wonder!

Longsheng Rice Terrace (Dragon's Backbone), Longsheng County, Guangxi, China.

The Longsheng Rice Terrace, also called the Longji Rice Terraces are located in Longsheng County, about 100 kilometers (62 mi) from Guilin, Guangxi, China.

The terraced fields are built along the slope winding from the riverside up to the mountain top, between 600 to 800 meters (2,000 to 2,600 ft) above sea level. A coiling terrace line that starts from the mountain foot up to the mountain top divides the mountain into layers of water in spring, layers of green rice shoots in summer, layers of rice in fall, and layers of frost in winter. The terraced fields were mostly built about 650 years ago.

Longji (Dragon's Backbone) Terraced Rice Fields received their name because the rice terraces resemble a dragon's scales, while the summit of the mountain range looks like the backbone of the dragon. In early June, water is pumped over the rice paddies and young plants are transferred to the main terraces.

 

The Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces is a beautiful natural picture. The linked together rice terraces vary from season to season. In spring, the water is irrigated into the fields and the terraces look like great chains or ribbons hung on the hillsides. When the onset of summer, green waves rush continuously down the mountainside from the heaven. The theme of autumn is the harvest, with the mountainside decorated with the gold of ripened millet. Coming into winter, the whole mountain will be covered with white snow, just like dragons playing with water.

As well as its amazing scenery, Longji is also the area to visit to experience China’s ethnic minorities' culture. The Zhuang and the Yao nationalities live here, though mainly it is the Zhuang people. The women dress in unique and colorful costumes, singing and dancing. Guests also can join in with them to enjoy the original Zhuang life and culture, and even stay with local families enjoying both the Longji tea and the Longji wine.

For More Details - Official Website

Liechtensteinklamm, Salzburg, Austria

Liechtensteinklamm (Liechtenstein Gorge) is a particularly narrow gorge with walls up to 300m high, located in the Austrian Alps 50 km south of Salzburg. It is around 4 km long and named after Johann II of Liechtenstein who had the walkways installed in 1875.

The gorge is around 4 km in length of which 1 km is accessible to visitors by means of wooden walkways (closed in winter months). It has a depth of up to 300m and in some places is only a few meters wide. At the end of the gorge is a waterfall. It receives around 100,000 visitors a year.

The waters of the Großarler Ache, a mountain stream, formed the gorge over thousands of years. In 1875 work began by members of the Pongau Alpine Club to make the gorge accessible, however was unfinished due to a lack of funds. Prince Johann II. of Liechtenstein, who ran a hunting lodge in the nearby Großarl, donated 600 guilders for an expansion of the work. At the completion of work in 1876 the gorge was renamed to honour the generous donation from the Prince. According to legend, the gorge was created when the devil full of anger and rage over a failed plan, flew across the canyon throwing water into it with such force as to carve the rock.

One of the deepest and longest ravines in the Alps, the Liechtensteinklamm is off the beaten track but well worth the detour. The jaw-dropping chasm was carved out during the last Ice Age; it's named after Johann II, Prince of Liechtenstein, who poured plenty of money into making the gorge accessible in the 19th century. Following raging waters flanked by vertical 300m-high cliffs, the footpath crosses bridges and passes through tunnels gouged into slate cliffs veined with white granite.

The mossy boulders and crags glisten with spray from the water, which is at its most striking in the late afternoon when the sunlight turns it opal blue. The trail culminates at a spectacular 50m waterfall. Allow at least an hour to walk the gorge. Trains run frequently between Werfen and St Johann im Pongau, a 4km walk from the gorge