Looking for information on the Eagles Nest Germany? Discover the infamous site’s transition from Hitler’s meeting place to a historical mountain guesthouse with unparalleled alpine views. Our guide takes you through accessing the site, what to see, and how to make the most of your visit to this remarkable remnant of history poised at 1,834 meters above sea level. The Eagles Nest is not open all year round and is closed in late fall and winter. The Eagles Nest or Kehlsteinhaus am Kehlstein are always open from the beginning of May to the end of October for visitors from all over the world. The exact opening times can be found on the website
Key Takeaways Tour Munich to Eagles Nest and Obersalzberg mountain
The Eagle’s Nest, also known as Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, is a historically significant site in Obersalzberg, used for Nazi official functions and having survived WWII bombings. Today, it stands as a guesthouse with its original construction preserved, symbolizing its historical past.
Accessible only by bus or on foot to conserve the site, the Eagle’s Nest offers stunning panoramic views from its 1,834-meter elevation, and features unique architecture including a red marble fireplace and a brass-lined elevator.
Visitors have multiple transportation options including bus, car, or taxi to reach the site or can engage in guided tours for an insightful visit. Additionally, the Eagle’s Nest provides opportunities for scenic hikes and is surrounded by attractions like Berchtesgaden and Lake Königssee offering cultural and recreational experiences.
The Historical Significance of Eagles Nest During World War II
Constructed on the Kehlstein summit above Obersalzberg, the Eagle’s Nest—also referred to as Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest—was a location for Nazi Party official gatherings, serving as a secluded venue for both government and social meetings. Its historical significance is underlined by Adolf Hitler himself having visited the site on 14 occasions.
Despite being targeted during World War II, notably withstanding bombings by the Royal Air Force in 1945 that devastated Obersalzberg, the structural integrity of the Eagle’s Nest remained intact. This fact highlights its remarkable historical resilience against onslaughts from allied soldiers. Eva Braun, Hitler’s companion, was known for her frequent visits to the Eagle’s Nest, where she entertained guests and was fond of sunbathing on its terrace, further embedding the location in the fabric of historical narratives.
This site, with its panoramic views and dark past, continues to draw visitors interested in its role in National Socialist history, serving as a stark reminder of the era and its impacts on the Obersalzberg area.
Tour from Munich Downtown with privat Driver an Sedan, Limousine or luxury Van 2 – 16 Pax
Tour from Munich to Eagles Nest or Kehlsteinhaus can always be booked with private drivers. For this tour we always suggest luxury vans as you sit higher and have a better overview. Our driver guides are experienced professionals and can also explain a lot of historical background and show you the best POI’s for good pictures and much more.
What exactly is there to see on our tour from Munich to Berchtesgaden?
Guided tour with private driver from Munich to the Eagles Nest or Eagle’s Nest
Ground transportation from munich to Berchtesgaden and the Königssee and if desired to Salzburg
To the Eagle’s Nest and Königssee with one of our driver guides and a luxury van for 2 to 7 people at a fixed price
Excellently trained and skilled chauffeurs with limousines, luxury vans and minibuses for your tour to Eagles Nest or Berchtesgaden
The Birth of Hitler’s Eagles Nest
In 1937, Martin Bormann initiated the construction of the Eagle’s Nest as a gift for Adolf Hitler’s birthday. The purpose of this retreat was to provide a setting where Nazi officials could gather for both governmental and social interactions. Its architectural design aimed to be striking, enhancing its role in diplomatic events.
Though originally built as a teahouse, the structure became a venue for various events attended by Hitler, encompassing both private gatherings and formal affairs.
Post-War Transformation Berchtesgaden – Eagles Nest and Salzburg Tour
Following the conclusion of World War II, Allied forces transformed the Eagle’s Nest into a command center for military operations. The governance of this location was handed back to Bavaria in 1960. Currently, it serves as a guesthouse in the mountainous region, signaling a remarkable transition from its initial war-related purposes.
Although the site has undergone functional transformations, the integrity of its original construction is maintained. It continues to serve as an enduring symbol and historical witness to National Socialist activities during World War II on Obersalzberg’s landscape.
Exploring the Eagles Nest , Kehlsteinhaus and Salzburg with a Private Driver Today
Today, the Eagle’s Nest attracts a plethora of visitors eager to witness its intact historical structures and breathtaking panoramic vistas. Preservation of the site mandates that entry is restricted solely to those arriving by bus or traveling on foot.
Perched atop a mountain peak, the eagle’s nest reaches an altitude of 6,000 feet, which translates to roughly 1,834 meters above sea level.
Architectural Highlights – Kehlsteinhaus and Berchtesgaden tour from Munich
The Eagle’s Nest is designed with a pseudo-medieval aesthetic, which includes:
Robust walls constructed from granite
Ceilings reinforced by sturdy beams
A red marble fireplace bestowed upon Hitler by Mussolini that has mostly survived intact apart from slight damage caused by those seeking souvenirs
Contemporary elements for the time such as an expansive elevator lined with marble and a brass-coated tunnel equipped with heating
Hitler had apprehensions regarding the safety of the elevator system used to bring visitors to the peak, particularly because of its susceptibility to lightning.
Panoramic Views and Sun Terrace
The vistas from the Eagle’s Nest are truly majestic, providing an inspiring panoramic spectacle that can stretch for as far as 200 kilometers on a day with clear skies, capturing the essence of the nearby mountains and valleys.
For guests seeking relaxation while taking in this magnificent landscape, the sun terrace serves as a peaceful retreat. Those desiring to enjoy their meal amidst nature’s beauty will find satisfaction at Eagle’s Nest. It offers various culinary delights accompanied by the impressive scenery visible from the dining area located on the sun terrace.
Getting to Eagles Nest: Transportation Options
Reaching the Eagle’s Nest is an adventure in itself, thanks to a variety of transportation methods available. If your journey starts from Munich or Salzburg, you have the option of taking a train to Berchtesgaden HBF and then switching to either a bus or taxi that will take you up to the parking lot designated for Eagle’s Nest visitors. Organized tours are on offer which provide seamless transport solutions including bus rides coupled with guided experiences lasting around 4.5 hours. For those opting to hike, the Eagle’s Nest parking lot serves as a starting point, while visitors taking the bus view it as their destination before boarding the mountain-service bus or the elevator.
At proximity to their destination, travelers can choose between boarding a special mountain-service bus or embarking on a hike up towards an elevator shaft carved into the heart of the mountain. This unique ascent involves riding an opulent brass-lined elevator directly up into The Eagle’s Nest facility.
private driver with limousine luxury mini van or minibus from 2 to 20 persons
Our specially trained drivers and chauffeurs will take you from Munich directly to the Eagles Nest in Bechtesgaden. From the tour you can also visit the Königssee and the beautiful landscape. You can also book an optional boat tour on the Königssee
By Bus to the Eagles Nest
The operation of the bus service to Eagle’s Nest commences in May, coinciding with the clearing of the road, and persists until such time as the road conditions are no longer safe for travel. The Watzmann Express, also known as bus #840, offers a route between Salzburg and Berchtesgaden that completes its journey within an approximate timeframe of 45 minutes.
Upon arrival at Berchtesgaden HBF, visitors can board a special bus for approximately a 15-minute ride to reach the parking area designated for Eagle’s Nest. Here, those holding a valid bus ticket have the opportunity to begin their trip around Eagle’s Nest.
Eagles Nest – Kehlsteinhaus and Berchtesgaden Tour from Munich By Limousine, Van or Taxi
Visitors who favor the use of a personal vehicle have the option to drive or take a taxi to Eagle’s Nest. There is an allocated area for taxis near the entrance, enabling passengers to disembark comfortably and eliminating the necessity for parking. Motorists coming from adjacent cities like Munich or Salzburg can arrive at Eagle’s Nest by following well-signposted, picturesque roads through the Bavarian Alps. A parking lot is available on-site for those driving themselves.
Typically, it takes about 20 minutes to travel from Berchtesgaden to Eagle’s Nest when traffic conditions are standard.
Guided Tours
Opting for a guided tour can enhance your visit by offering a structured and enlightening experience. Private educational tours delve deep into the historical significance of the site, featuring excursions to Obersalzberg as well as an exploration of Hitler’s erstwhile residence. These tours are run locally and are perfect for visitors lodging in Berchtesgaden who seek thorough expertise.
For those starting their journey from Munich, organized tours adeptly manage all aspects of travel logistics—including several transfers and connections—thereby simplifying access to the Eagle’s Nest for tourists seeking convenience.
Hiking Adventures at Eagle’s Nest
Thrill-seekers looking to explore the Eagle’s Nest have at their disposal a variety of hiking paths tailored to various skill levels. Those embarking on the journey can either opt for an uphill challenge starting from Obersalzberg or choose a less demanding path that begins near the ski gondola situated along the principal highway beneath Berchtesgaden town.
Hiking Trails around the Eagles Nest and Berchtsgaden
The journey to Eagle’s Nest is quite manageable, without any arduous climbs, thus one can comfortably trek in casual trainers. It’s advisable to wear sturdy shoes since there might be parts of the trail that are inclined and rugged, along with patches of mud and watercourse fords.
Spanning 4.5 kilometers, the primary trail ascends approximately 800 meters in elevation. This distance is typically traversable within a span shorter than three hours. There exists a secondary route leading to Eagle’s Nest, identifiable by a stone mound (cairn), rather than conventional signage.
Best Time to Hike around Berchtesgaden and Königssee
The Eagle’s Nest trail is open for hiking from mid-May to October, providing the most favorable conditions for visitors. The recommended timeframe to visit and hike there extends between May and October.
Throughout this optimal period stretching from May into October, hikers might encounter trails that vary in condition—from muddy stretches to rocky passages—and should be prepared for the presence of insects. It is suggested that summer hikes during inclement weather such as rain be avoided due to poor visibility which can detract significantly from experiencing the breathtaking panoramic views.
Nearby Attractions and Experiences
To the iconic Eagle’s Nest, Berchtesgaden is home to a variety of attractions that merit attention, including:
The Adventure Mine
The Romy Schneider Exhibition
The National Park Center
The Old Salt Works
Lake Königssee is renowned for its tranquil splendor and array of leisure activities. Close in proximity to Eagle’s Nest and Kehlstein Mountain lies Obersalzberg – an area steeped in historical importance which visitors have the opportunity to discover.
Berchtesgaden and the Kehlsteinhaus Tour from Munich
Situated close to the Eagle’s Nest, Berchtesgaden is a picturesque German town with numerous attractions for visitors. One can delve into the depths of history at the Adventure Mine, previously utilized as a salt mine and now repurposed as an attraction where tourists can wander through its extensive tunnel network on guided tours. A tribute to celebrated German actress Romy Schneider is showcased at The Romy Schneider Exhibition, celebrating her career and legacy.
Families will find enjoyment and learning opportunities at The National Park Center, which features hands-on exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. Adding to the historical intrigue of this town, The Old Salt Works presents instructional tours that shed light on Berchtesgaden’s storied past in salt mining.
Obersalzberg
Situated close to Berchtesgaden, Obersalzberg acted as the official alpine refuge for Adolf Hitler and became an alternative seat of power for the Third Reich following 1933. Presenting a display known as ‘Idyll and Crime,’ the Dokumentation Obersalzberg is both a museum and learning facility delving into how the site relates to Hitler’s era and National Socialist ideology. Visitors have the opportunity to delve into historical insights by touring the bunker system that lies beneath Obersalzberg.
The Hotel zum Türken once provided lodgings for members of Hitler’s personal guard detail, yet now it functions as a hotel where guests can stay amidst echoes of its historic past linked with this notorious period.
Lake Königssee
Nestled near the Eagle’s Nest, Lake Königssee presents an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in its breathtaking landscape through environmentally-friendly electric boat tours. Tourists often make a point to visit St. Bartholomew’s Church, which stands as an important pilgrimage site on the lake’s edge.
Those taking a tour of Lake Königssee by boat have the unique chance to witness the Flugelhorn Echo, an extraordinary sonic occurrence at this location.
Dining at Eagles Nest
After touring the Eagle’s Nest and its surrounding points of interest, guests can relish in a dining experience at the restaurant located on the premises. This establishment boasts a welcoming interior ambiance highlighted by an inviting fireplace that serves as the central feature.
The restaurant’s selection includes an assortment of culinary options such as burgers, sandwiches, soups, and several other savory treats designed to satisfy different palates.
The Eagle’s Nest Restaurant
The Eagle’s Nest restaurant boasts a quaint dining space with paneled interiors, providing patrons with an intimate and charming atmosphere. Here, visitors are able to savor a curated menu of food items and beverages at cozy tables.
Alongside its restaurant services, the Eagle’s Nest opens up a beer garden from mid-May through mid-October for the public’s pleasure.
Local Delicacies
While enjoying traditional beer and the robust meals of Bavarian cuisine, guests at the Eagle’s Nest have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s deep history, which showcases contributions from the Bavarian government.
Summary – Eagles Nest Kehlsteinhaus
The Eagle’s Nest stands as a site of profound historical importance, once serving as a Nazi stronghold and now transformed into a sought-after destination for tourists. It presents an extraordinary mix of history, architectural interest, and scenic splendor. Visitors have the choice to journey there by bus or car or opt for an invigorating walk to encounter this remarkable location that guarantees unforgettable vistas, fascinating structural design, and the delightful flavors of Bavarian gastronomy.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Eagles Nest Tour from Munich
How can I reach the Eagle’s Nest?
The Eagle’s Nest is accessible via a variety of transportation options, including taking a bus, driving yourself in a car, hailing a taxi or participating in an organized tour originating from either Munich or Salzburg.
Have a wonderful time during your visit!
What are the hiking opportunities at the Eagles Nest?
Providing various hiking trails for different physical abilities, the Eagle’s Nest presents a plethora of exploration opportunities for hikers.
What are some attractions near the Eagle’s Nest?
In the vicinity of the Eagle’s Nest, visitors can explore attractions such as Berchtesgaden, Obersalzberg, and Lake Königssee.
Arrange a trip to discover these captivating locations.
What dining options are available at the Eagles Nest?
At its restaurant, the Eagle’s Nest presents an assortment of culinary options and beverages.
What is the best time to hike to the Eagle’s Nest?
Hiking to the Eagle’s Nest is most ideal between mid-May and October due to suitable weather conditions.
During these months, the clear skies contribute to a secure and pleasurable hike.
