A Solo Cultural Retreat in Salzburg

A Day of Contrasts

Today was my last full day in Salzburg, and I wanted to make it count. I decided to venture into the Bavarian Alps, a region promising breathtaking scenery and a touch of historical gravity. What I experienced was a day of stark contrasts, from the tranquil beauty of a pristine lake to the chilling heights of a place steeped in dark history.

I started my day with a delightful breakfast at The Glass Garden. The panoramic views of Salzburg were simply stunning, and the Michelin-starred cuisine was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for the six-course menu, and each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically.

After breakfast, I drove towards Königssee. The drive itself was gorgeous, winding through lush green valleys and past charming Bavarian villages. I remembered the scenic drives Andreas and I used to take along the Rhine, and felt a pang of longing for his company. Still, I was determined to enjoy this solo adventure to the fullest.

Arriving at Königssee, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The lake is nestled amidst towering mountains, their peaks still capped with snow even in late May. The air was crisp and clean, and the water was a deep emerald green. It felt like stepping into a postcard.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Königssee, an alpine lake in Bavaria, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene landscapes.

I hopped on one of the electric boats that glide across the lake, a conscious effort to preserve its pristine environment. The boat tour was incredibly peaceful, the only sounds the gentle hum of the motor and the occasional commentary from the guide. The guide was telling us about the history of the lake, about how only electric boats have been allowed on the lake for over 100 years. Apparently Prince-Regent Luitpold of Bavaria was afraid that the noise would scare away the deer he liked to hunt. It was so interesting!

Sometimes, the most beautiful places hold the most complex stories.

The boat made a stop at St. Bartholomä, a picturesque church on a small peninsula. The church's red-domed towers stood out against the backdrop of the Watzmann mountain, creating a scene of picture-perfect serenity. I took some time to explore the church and wander along the lake's edge, soaking in the tranquility.

For lunch, I decided to try Restaurant Zum Eulenspiegel. This restaurant, located in a historic building, offered a cozy atmosphere and traditional Austrian cuisine. I enjoyed a hearty meal of beef stroganoff, savoring the rich flavors and reflecting on the beauty of Königssee. The restaurant was located opposite Mozart's Birth House, which was a reminder of Salzburg's rich musical history.

In the afternoon, I made my way to The Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus). The contrast between the serene beauty of Königssee and the dark history of the Eagle's Nest was jarring. The Eagle's Nest, perched atop a mountain, was built as a teahouse and used by the Nazi party for meetings and to impress foreign dignitaries. The Eagle's Nest was closed for winter but was planned to open on May 8, 2025. I could still visit the historical site.


Visit The Eagle's Nest for breathtaking views and a rich historical experience in the Bavarian Alps, a must-see landmark near Berchtesgaden, Germany.

The drive up to the Eagle's Nest was not for the faint of heart, with steep inclines and hairpin turns. The bus was taking us up a 6.5 km road with a 27% incline! At the top, I entered a tunnel that led to an elevator, which whisked me up to the summit. Stepping out of the elevator, I was greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The views were breathtaking, but they were also tainted by the knowledge of what this place represented. The Eagle's Nest was the second most important center of power of the Nazi dictatorship, where decisions were made about persecution, war, and genocide.

I explored the building, now a mountain guesthouse, and visited the exhibition that details the history of the Eagle's Nest and its connection to Hitler and the Obersalzberg. It was a sobering experience, a reminder of the dark chapters in human history. The exhibition aimed to encourage visitors to engage more deeply with the history of the Obersalzberg.

Before heading back to Salzburg, I stopped by Heart Of Mozart - Souvenirs und Geschenkartikel. I picked up a few Mozartkugeln for Sophie, knowing she would appreciate the sweet treat. I also found a beautiful music box playing Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, a perfect memento of my time in Salzburg. There were also many rubber ducks sporting Mozart wigs, which I found to be quite funny!


Explore a unique gift shop in Salzburg, brimming with Mozart-themed souvenirs and local crafts that celebrate the city's musical heritage.

For dinner, I decided to try Restaurant Jakob's Esskultur. The restaurant had excellent reviews, and I was eager to experience its cuisine. The food was outstanding, with finely cooked specialties ranging from home-pickled Label Rouge salmon to goose liver and Duroc pork loin. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.


Experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Jakob's Esskultur in Salzburg – where local flavors meet innovative gastronomy.

As I sit here reflecting on my day, I am struck by the contrasts I experienced. The serene beauty of Königssee, the dark history of the Eagle's Nest, the exquisite cuisine, and the charming souvenirs. It was a day that touched on the full spectrum of human experience, a fitting end to my solo cultural retreat in Salzburg. I'm so glad I took the time to visit both the lake and the Eagle's Nest, because they both had so much to offer.

This trip has reminded me of the importance of taking time for myself, of immersing myself in new cultures and experiences. It has also reinforced my love for art, history, and the beauty of the natural world. I feel refreshed, inspired, and ready to return home to Andreas and Sophie.

Tomorrow, I'll be packing my bags and preparing for the drive back to Bonn. While I'm looking forward to seeing my family, I'll also be carrying with me the memories and experiences of this incredible journey. Salzburg, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, has left an indelible mark on my soul.

Until next time, auf wiedersehen!