In the heart of Central Europe, along the border between the Austrian provinces of Styria and Upper Austria, lies a wild, unique mountain region – the Totes Gebirge. Formed from marine life of long-gone eras and sculpted by water and ice, this imposing mountain range rises to over 2500 metres above sea level. Its insides criss-crossed by underground waterways and caves, its surface is barren and dry – a mystical and seemingly hostile place. But appearances are deceptive. This extreme landscape is a paradise for wildlife and one of the Alps’ most diverse and species-rich habitats.