Berchtesgaden is a wonderful place to relax in the heart of the charming Alps
The historic town of Berchtesgaden and the adjacent Berchtesgaden National Park lie in the southeastern corner of Germany
In the picturesque countryside of the Bavarian Alps
It is a must-see for anyone passing through this part of Europe
Berchtesgaden offers a wide range of activities to suit every traveler's taste
From luxury spa trips to salt mine visits, lake cruises and even ice cave exploration
Between the magnificence of deep valleys, cliffs, and green hills
The views are magnificent of castles, churches, picturesque homes and buildings with a rich historical texture.
History of Berchtesgaden
The earliest evidence of Berchtesgaden dates back to the early 100th century. Much of the city's wealth was due to the lucrative salt mines that opened in the mid-XNUMXth century. It was occupied by Austrian soldiers in the early XNUMXth century before being annexed to Austria XNUMX years later.
During the Allied occupation during World War II, Berchtesgaden became an important meeting place for high-ranking German officers. And some of the most important decisions of the war that Hitler made were in Berchtesgaden.
Eagle's nest
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Without a doubt, Berchtesgaden's most famous attraction is the Eagle's Nest, which was the site of many of Hitler's political and military decisions made during the war, although Hitler himself rarely visited the site.
A symbol of the wealth of the powerful during one of the most horrific atrocities in human history, this building sits atop the soaring (1834m) Kellstein mountain, overlooking the beautiful landscape of the city below.
At the summit there is a restaurant serving traditional Bavarian meals and an open-air promenade where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Alps.
Museum Documentation Obersalzberg
Due to its involvement in World War II, much of Berchtesgaden's sights relate to its connection to the war. It describes the museum, known as Documentation Obersalzberg , the role the city played during its use as a mountain park for German leaders.
Because the Nazi leaders used this area, most of the buildings in the resort area were equipped with bunkers and other protective architecture in case of raids or attacks.
The museum has a fascinating hideaway worth seeing, complete with hidden rooms, booths, and a labyrinth of halls that illustrate how important the safety of the Nazi leaders, in case of potential threats, was during the war.
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Daily from April 1st to October 31st, 9am to 5pm
Daily except Mondays from November 1st to March 31st, 10am to 3pm - closed January 1st and November 1st and December 24th, 25th and 31st
Konigssee Berchtesgaden
If you visit the Eagle's Nest, you will get a glimpse of the splendor of Lake Königssee from above but to truly appreciate the beauty of this sparkling lake, you need to visit Schönau am Königssee. This small town, located just five kilometers from Berchtesgaden, is one of Germany's most beautiful lakes.
The fjord-like lake with its glassy waters fed by the Alps is in a privileged setting, surrounded by towering mountains. Apart from the serene views, the main attraction at the lake is St. Barthomula's Church. Dating back to the XNUMXth century, the church is known for its red domes that contrast stunningly with the white walls and are beautifully reflected in the mirror-like lake.
The only way to get to the church is by boat, so you'll need to take an electric motor boat for the 35-minute trip, or rent a rowing boat.
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While walking to the lake port in Königssee, you will notice that the cable car goes up the mountain to your left. This is the Jenner Peak which gives you the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the Konigssee.
The cable car reaches the top of Mount Jenner (1874 metres) in three sections and you can get off at each station if you wish. At the middle station there are wonderful views of the lake and Mount Wätzmann, as well as a crystal clear lake called Bergsee that reflects the surrounding mountains.
The upper station is popular with hikers as there are many excellent walks. It is also home to ski trails in the winter. There is a panoramic restaurant and a viewing platform where you can admire the wonderful scenery.
salt mine
Many can attribute Berchtesgaden's wealth to the opening and subsequent success of the salt mines. The Berchtesgaden salt mines are the oldest in Bavaria, having been in operation since 1517, and are still in operation today.
The salt is extracted from a composite rock that is about 50% pure salt, and is recovered using a technique known as wet mining.
The Berchtesgaden salt mine offers a wide range of things to see, including tickets; Mountainside train rides, light shows, and even a visit to an underground lake (Mirror Lake, which is known for the ceiling's amazing reflection of the water) complete with a boat ride.
For families traveling with children, this highly interactive and informative attraction is a great way to spend a day.
Haus der Berg
Haus der Berg, the education and information center of the Berchtesgaden National Park, is located at the entrance to the city, in front of Mount Watzmann.
The main exhibit, called Vertical Wilderness, presents the national park's habitats from the depths of Lake Königssee to the peaks of the Alps with interactive displays along a panoramic indoor trail. There are also temporary screens and a cinema showing nature films.
Outside you can visit the historic Alpine hut built in 1848 and moved piece by piece to Haus der Berg.
Opening Hours - Daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Entrance fee - for adults 4 euros, for children 2 euros.
Fatsmann Thermal Spa
When it comes to pampering and wellness, you can visit the Wätzmann Thermal Spa. This attraction not only offers a fun and exciting water area with a children's pool, an adventure pool with an 80-meter water slide and a sports pool, but also has many other unique components that combine The best are family water parks and spas.
The sauna area offers five different saunas with varying heat levels, as well as an area that allows patrons unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. The sauna also offers infusion programmes, different aroma baths and body treatments to give you the ultimate relaxation experience.
The facility also offers a unique bathing experience in their saltwater tubs, which are filled with natural salt from the surrounding area, providing lasting skin and respiratory benefits for you to enjoy in a relaxing atmosphere.
Opening hours: daily from 10 am to 10 pm
Entry fee: Adult prices start at €12.30 for two hours. Day tickets (€18.60) and family tickets are available.
