Nationalpark Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden, Bavaria
If you’re looking to explore the mountainous landscapes of the Bavarian Alps, Nationalpark Berchtesgaden is a good place to start. Sprawling over more than 80 square miles (200 square kilometers), Germany’s only alpine national park is a natural paradise of dense forests, verdant valleys, and alpine lakes set against the snow-capped skyline of the Alps.
The basics
Full-day tours of Nationalpark Berchtesgaden from Munich and Salzburg typically visit several attractions and viewpoints in the park. Highlights include historic sites such as the mountaintop Eagle’s Nest, used by the Nazi party during WWII; natural wonders, including Lake Königssee, Mount Untersberg, and Weissbach Gorge; and Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, which dates from the 16th century. You can also ride the Jennerbahn or Obersalzberg cable cars for a magnificent view over the Alps, take a boat cruise, and enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities.
Things to know before you go
- Wildlife enthusiasts can look out for ibex, marmot, golden eagles, and bearded vultures in the national park.
- Head to the National Park Visitor Center in Berchtesgaden for maps, information, and interactive exhibitions.
- The national park is part of the Berchtesgaden UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so take care to preserve the environment: only hike on dedicated trails, leave no trace, and keep dogs on a leash.
- The mountain terrain can be tough, so proper hiking shoes and seasonal outdoor clothing are essential.
How to get there
Berchtesgaden is the obvious starting point for exploring the national park, lying right on its doorstep. It’s possible to reach trailheads by shuttle bus during hiking season, but most travelers get around with their own vehicle or by joining a guided tour. From Munich, it’s about three hours by train to reach Berchtesgaden. If you’re road-tripping through Bavaria, the park lies at the eastern end of the German Alpine Road.
When to get there
The mountainous national park is a four-season playground where you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Hiking season typically runs from May through October, while ski season is December through March. The park’s trails and main attractions attract many visitors, especially in July, August, and school holidays throughout the year; opt to visit in the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds.
Outdoor activities in Nationalpark Berchtesgaden
Hikers have plenty of choice in the national park, with more than 100 miles (260 kilometers) of hiking trails ranging from easy, fully accessible routes to challenging mountain treks. You can also explore 19 miles (50 kilometers) of mountain biking trails, go skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing in winter, or take part in adventure activities, such as tandem paragliding, white-water rafting, and canyoning.
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