10 Things to Do in Berchtesgaden National Park, Germany
Berchtesgaden National Park is a stunningly beautiful and ecologically diverse protected area in the Bavarian Alps of southeastern Germany. Located near the Austrian border, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles, as well as several species of rare plants. It is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Berchtesgaden National Park.
1. Take a Hike
Berchtesgaden National Park is a paradise for hikers, with more than 600 kilometers of trails to explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there’s something for everyone. Popular routes include the Watzmann Circuit, which takes you around the entire massif, and the Eagle’s Path, a stunningly scenic trail that winds up to the summit of the Watzmann mountain.
2. Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Berchtesgaden National Park is a great place to hit the slopes. The park is home to several ski resorts, including the Königssee Ski Resort and the Jenner Ski Resort. With more than 40 kilometers of slopes, the resorts offer something for everyone, from beginner to expert.
3. Visit the Königssee
The Königssee is a stunning lake located in the heart of the park. It is the deepest lake in Germany and one of the cleanest in all of Europe. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, explore the surrounding mountains, or take a dip in the crystal clear waters.
4. Explore the Eagle’s Nest
The Eagle’s Nest is a mountain top chalet located near the summit of the Kehlstein mountain. It was built as a retreat for Adolf Hitler and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the chalet and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Visit the Salt Mines
The Berchtesgaden Salt Mines are located in the park and are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mines, learn about the history of salt mining, and explore the underground chambers and tunnels.
6. Go Climbing
Berchtesgaden National Park is a great place to go climbing. The park is home to several climbing routes, ranging from beginner to expert. Popular routes include the Watzmann East Face and the Königssee North Face.
7. Go Biking
Berchtesgaden National Park is a great place to go biking. The park is home to several bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Popular routes include the Watzmann Circuit, the Eagle’s Path, and the Königssee Bike Trail.
8. Visit the Obersalzberg
The Obersalzberg is a mountain top village located in the park. It was once the site of Adolf Hitler’s mountain retreat and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ruins of the former Nazi compound, visit the Documentation Center, and take a cable car to the top of the mountain.
9. Go Bird Watching
Berchtesgaden National Park is a great place to go bird watching. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including golden eagles, black kites, and peregrine falcons. Popular bird watching spots include the Obersalzberg and the Königssee.
10. Take a Boat Tour
Berchtesgaden National Park is home to several stunning lakes, including the Königssee, Obersee, and Hintersee. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lakes and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.