t The Pfarrkirche beside the mountain-fed Ramsau Ache river
Experience Bavaria
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Encircled by mountains – the Watzmann, the Kehlstein and the Untersberg – the eponymous capital of the Berchtesgaden region offers a rich selection of attractions. The castle, formerly an Augustinian priory, houses the art collection of Crown Prince Ruprecht, the local salt mine has a fascinating exhibition, and there’s also a comprehensive swimming complex in town with indoor and outdoor thermal pools as well as a sauna.
This documentation centre offers an impressive overview of the history of Obersalzberg. It specifically focuses on National Socialism and the ways that the region and Nazi ideology intertwined. The permanent exhibition explores themes such as the site’s history, the National Socialist Community, Hitler and his foreign policy, and the persecution of the Jews. The building’s bunker area contains regular special exhibitions, lectures and events supplement the main exhibition.
t Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern in Berchtesgadener Land
One of the loveliest baroque buildings in the region, the pilgrimage church of Maria Gern was built in 1709 in this idyllic location, atop a small hill known as the Reitbichl. As well as a an attractive exterior, the elliptical interior features articulated vaults, a decorated high altar made of walnut, and a series of votive images from the 17th to the 20th century. The ceiling is a wonderful mix of stucco and frescoes that depict the life of Mary.
Germany’s largest and cleanest lake serves as the focal point of the Berchtesgadener Land. Lying 600 m (2,000 ft) above sea level, it covers 5.5 sq km (2 sq miles). For environmental reasons, only electric boats and rowing boats are allowed on the lake. Tours pass the photogenic St Bartholomä church, and the sheer mountain walls which, when the boatman blows his trumpet, bounce the sound back impressively.
Set in an enchanting location in the Ramsau valley, this popular village has been associated with mountaineering for many decades, thanks especially to mountaineer Johann Grill, who first scaled the Watzmann’s east wall in 14 hours, and whose statue is in front of the town hall. Spectacular views of the mountains can be enjoyed from the small parish church, and the Zauberwald forest and the Hintersee lake are also nearby.
This scenic lake has given its name to a picturesque hamlet nearby. It’s small enough to be walked around in an hour and ferry trips are available. If walking, look out for the themed trail, which has information boards about the 19th century painters who created many works of art here. In winter, the frozen lake is a popular place for ice-skating.
Experience Bavaria
Kehlsteinhaus
Standing on the summit of Kehlstein, this stone building was given to Hitler as a birthday present in 1939 by one of his closest allies, Martin Bormann. It houses a popular restaurant with spectacular views over part of the Alps.