Not far from Bavaria's Austrian border, Berchtesgaden is an idyllic mountain town, close to a beautiful lake and picturesque national park. Once a favourite summer retreat of the Bavarian royal family, the town was later the location of Hitler’s infamous mountain lodge, Eagle’s Nest. It is now a wonderful destination for outdoorsy travellers as well as heritage buffs, who will appreciate beautiful views from the best places to stay in Berchtesgaden.

Amble along the pedestrianised streets of Berchtesgaden’s historic centre, admiring little lanes lined with pretty painted houses, and making your way to the bustling town square to savour a coffee or long lunch on the sunlit terrace of a family-owned restaurant. There are some great boutiques for keen shoppers to explore, too. Delve into the town’s past with a guided visit to the old salt mines which once made the region wealthy, or a long lunch at Eagle's Nest — now a panoramic restaurant — before touring the Obersalzberg Museum at the bottom of the mountain.

Outdoorsy travellers will be thrilled to find 240km of marked hiking trails through the Berchtesgaden National Park, which includes the crystal clear Lake Konigssee. Enjoy scenic boat trips, kayaking excursions and refreshing swims in the lake, or hone your cycling, white water rafting, golf and horse riding skills in the surrounding area. The Watzmann, Germany’s second-highest peak, is also right on your doorstep. Check out our guide to the best places to stay in Berchtesgaden as you plan your trip to this fabulous corner of Bavaria.

The Best Places to Stay in Berchtesgaden

For Luxury

• Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden is a beautiful contemporary resort with 138 swish guest rooms and suites fusing modern minimalism with traditional materials and lots of glass. The sumptuous spa, two Michelin-starred restaurant and abundance of outdoor activities make this a fabulous Alpine hotel choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Salzburg Airport, just across the border in Austria and 30 minutes' drive from Berchtesgaden.
• There's lots to see in this part of Bavaria! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between May and September for plenty of sunshine, flower-filled meadows and comfortable temperatures for adventurous hiking, swimming and cycling in the national park. As is the case across the region, you'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Salzburg.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Bavaria.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Berchtesgaden