Background

Obersee and Röthbachfall: A Bavarian Paradise

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Obersee and Röthbachfall in Berchtesgaden National Park, home to Germany's highest waterfall.

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Obersee, a serene lake in Berchtesgaden National Park, offers stunning reflections of the surrounding Alps. A short hike leads to the Röthbachfall, Germany's highest waterfall, cascading down 470 meters, making this a must-see natural wonder.

A brief summary to Obersee und Röthbachfall

  • Seestraße 29, Schönau am Königssee, Königssee, 83471, DE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (July-September), to avoid long lines for the Königssee ferry.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to Röthbachfall, as the trail can be uneven and slippery.
  • Bring cash, as many establishments in Schönau am Königssee and around Obersee may not accept credit cards.
  • Check the Königssee ferry schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss the last boat back from Salet.
  • For the best views on the Königssee boat trip, sit on the right side going to Salet and on the left side returning.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Berchtesgaden, take bus 841 to Königssee. The bus ride is approximately 10-15 minutes and departs twice an hour. From the Königssee bus stop, walk past the shops to the boat pier. Purchase a round-trip ferry ticket to Salet. The ferry ride to Salet takes about 50 minutes. From Salet, it's a 15-minute (1 km) walk to Obersee. Bus 841 fare: Approximately €2-3. Round trip ferry to Salet: Adults €29, Children €8.50.

  • Walking

    From the Königssee boat pier, take the electric ferry to Salet. From Salet, follow the well-marked path towards Obersee; the walk is approximately 15 minutes (1 km). Continue along the Obersee shore to reach the Röthbachfall trail. Round trip ferry to Salet: Adults €29, Children €8.50.

  • Car

    Drive to Schönau am Königssee and follow signs to the Königssee parking area. From the parking lot, walk approximately 10 minutes to the Königssee boat pier. Take the electric ferry to Salet. From Salet, it's a 15-minute (1 km) walk to Obersee. Parking at Königssee: €9 per day. Round trip ferry to Salet: Adults €29, Children €8.50.

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Discover more about Obersee und Röthbachfall

Obersee and Röthbachfall, nestled within the Berchtesgaden National Park, offer an unforgettable alpine experience. Obersee, or Upper Lake, is a natural lake known for its mirror-like surface, reflecting the majestic peaks of the surrounding Bavarian Alps. Separated from the larger Königssee by a moraine, Obersee boasts crystal-clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere. The Röthbachfall, Germany's highest waterfall, is a short hike from Obersee. Its waters plunge an impressive 470 meters down a rock face, creating a stunning spectacle. The waterfall is most dramatic during the snowmelt in spring or after heavy rains. The hike to the base of the falls passes through meadows and offers panoramic views of Obersee and the Alps. Obersee was likely never part of the larger Königssee and always separated. Tourism began here in 1912, when a young couple obtained permission from Prince Regent Luitpold of Bavaria to build a small timber kiosk on the Saletalm meadows. This kiosk eventually evolved into the Alpengaststätte Saletalm. Today, the area is a protected part of the Berchtesgaden National Park, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for generations to come.

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