With its towering alps and lush valleys, Berchtesgaden is the ideal winter wonderland or summer getaway. The Bavarian village has long been a holiday destination for Europeans and has also been a favorite among Americans since the end of World War II. If you're planning on spending a few days here, be sure to check out these seven things to do in Berchtesgaden.
Take a tour of the salt mines.
Salt has been a source of great income for the area of Berchtesgaden Land for hundreds of years. A couple of the old mines around Berchtesgaden are open for visitors. Throw on some provided miner's clothing, hop on a small train, and take a ride into and through the mines. It's one educational activity that sometimes feels like a ride at Disney World, taking visitors on a raft and down slides before the end of the tour. Near the end of the tour, you'll get to sample the salt that's mined. (Note: There is also a separate kid-friendly tour.)
Hike in Berchtesgaden National Park.
I believe Berchtesgaden National Park is one of the most beautiful reserves in the world. Summertime is especially beautiful in the park as the fields of valleys bloom colorful wildflowers. Plan on spending at least a day hiking the trails through the valleys and enjoying the pristine nature.
Ride a ferry on Konigssee.
This deep, cold green lake is a part of the Berchtesgaden National Park and sits in a valley between steep mountains. It's natural beauty has made it one of the most recognized and visited lakes in the world. Ferry rides are available and take visitors to another remarkable site - Saint Bartholomew's pilgrimage church.
Walk through the Markt Plaz in the Old Town.
The Markt Plaz in the Old Town of Berchtesgaden is a pedestrian-only area featuring cobblestone streets and traditional Bavarian architecture with painted kitschy murals that seem to delight tourists. There are plenty of shops and restaurants offering traditional Bavarian wares to keep you busy for hours.
Visit the Royal Palace.
Bavarian ruling family members such as Prince Rupprecht and his descendents have called this palace home for a very long time. Construction of the Royal Palace was ever-changing and expanding over hundreds of years, so the decor is as eclectic as the eras. The main rooms on several floors remain open to viewing for visitors and contain priceless works of art and furnishings.
Eat lunch on a mountain peak in the historic Eagle's Nest.
Kehlsteinhaus, or Eagle's Nest, sits high on the edge of a mountain overlooking Berchtesgaden. It was given to Hitler for his 50th birthday and was used to entertain wedding guests and a couple of foreign dignitaries. Today you can toast the Allied victory over the Nazi party while enjoying lunch on the terrace. To get to Eagle's Nest, hike up the trails or take one of the buses up the mountain; the road is closed to private cars. (Note: Due to its high elevation, Eagle's Nest is closed during winter months.)
Swish down the slopes.
Winter sports enthusiasts love Berchtesgaden because the mountains around the area offer some of the best slopes in the world. Don't worry if you're not a pro - many ski lodges offer affordable lessons and equipment rental for beginners to intermediate skiers, which I was grateful for. Many lodges also offer quick skiing and sledding lessons for children.
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