Two of the Alps’ most dramatic sights sit side by side in Bavaria, barely 30 minutes from Salzburg: the fjord-like Königssee and the Eagle’s Nest. Here’s how to do both in a day.
Königssee
Germany’s cleanest lake is explored by silent electric boat. It glides beneath sheer cliffs to the red-domed chapel of St. Bartholomä — and along the way the boatman plays a trumpet against the famous echo wall. Unmissable.
The Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus)
Perched at 1,834 m, the Kehlsteinhaus is reached by a thrilling mountain road and a brass elevator bored through the rock, rewarding you with a 360° panorama. Note: it’s open only mid-May to late October — snow closes the road in winter.
Doing it from Salzburg
Bring your passport or ID (it’s Germany), and allow a full day. A private day trip takes care of the border, the timing and the parking — see our Berchtesgaden, Eagle’s Nest & Königssee tour.
Quick tips
- Dress warm — the summit is cool even in summer
- In winter, swap the Eagle’s Nest for the Obersalzberg history centre or salt mine
- The Königssee boat ticket is paid locally
