Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden

High above Berchtesgaden, the Kehlsteinhaus stands at an elevation of 1,834 meters – a place offering panoramic views, extraordinary architecture, and historical significance. Once a Nazi-era representative building, it is now a mountain inn and memorial site. It is one of the most impressive destinations in Bavaria, blending history with an unforgettable mountain experience.

The Kehlsteinhaus is one of the most famous attractions in the BerchtesgadenerLand. Perched on a rocky spur of the Kehlstein mountain, it offers a unique 360-degree view of the Alps – with vistas extending to the Watzmann, Untersberg, and across to Salzburg. In addition to its impressive location, its history is also significant: The house was built in 1938 and served as a place for representation during the Nazi era.

Getting There – Convenient by Bus or on Foot

The Kehlsteinhaus can be reached in two ways: either by taking the e-bus from the Obersalzberg parking lot or by hiking along well-marked trails. The Kehlstein buses (RVO Line 849) operate daily during the summer season and take visitors up a high-altitude mountain road to the bus turn-around point just below the Kehlsteinhaus. From there, a tunnel leads directly to the original elevator, which quickly ascends the remaining 124 meters in just a few seconds. Online reservations for the bus ride are recommended, especially during the high season.

Alternatively, the Kehlsteinhaus can be reached on foot. The most popular route starts at Ofnerboden on the Roßfeld Panorama Road. The ascent follows a closed, asphalted road with numerous hairpin turns and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. A slightly more challenging route begins at the parking lot near the Documentation Center Obersalzberg (about 3 hours walking time). Both routes lead to the bus turn-around platform, from where the last 15 to 20 minutes are completed on a scenic serpentine path to the Kehlsteinhaus. At the summit, the Kehlstein Loop Trail offers a short but impressive detour with views of the rocky landscape of the Hoher Göll.

>> Discover more hikes in the Berchtesgaden region.

Whether by bus or on foot: Once at the top, visitors are greeted by a historically significant site featuring impressive architecture, a sun terrace with panoramic views, and a restaurant. On the terrace, a small exhibition provides insights into the history of the house and the Obersalzberg through photos and informational panels. For those wanting to delve deeper into the history, an English-language tour is available – including a ride and educational journey through Obersalzberg, a visit to the Documentation Center Obersalzberg, and access to the bunker system.

The Kehlsteinhaus was built in 1937/38 at an altitude of 1,834 meters and was part of the so-called "Führersperrgebiet" (Leader's Restricted Area) on Obersalzberg, the second most important power center of the Nazi dictatorship after Berlin. Originally planned as a representative tea house for diplomatic receptions, it played a minor role in the political daily life of the regime. Adolf Hitler himself visited the house only a few times, while his entourage used it more frequently for private gatherings.

After World War II, the Kehlsteinhaus became a significant place of remembrance. Since the 1950s, it has been operated as a mountain inn. Today, an exhibition on the sun terrace informs visitors about the house’s history through historical photographs and informational panels, detailing its origins, use, and transformation – from its role in National Socialism to its current significance as a memorial and tourist destination.

The Kehlsteinhaus is located above Berchtesgaden in southern Bavaria, near the Austrian border. It can be reached via the A8 (Munich–Salzburg) and B20 towards Berchtesgaden. From there, Salzbergstraße leads up to the parking lot at Obersalzberg, where ample parking is available. From here, the RVO bus line 849 takes visitors up the spectacular Kehlstein Road to the bus turnaround – the road itself is closed to public traffic.

For those arriving by public transport, take bus line 838 from Berchtesgaden station to the Kehlstein bus departure point. The Kehlsteinhaus is partially accessible: wheelchair-friendly buses, a paved tunnel, and barrier-free access to the restaurant and terrace make the visit easier. It is recommended to have an accompanying person, as some areas, such as the large fireplace hall, are only partially accessible.