The Eagle's Nest: A Mountaintop Retreat with a Dark Past
Ascend to the Eagle's Nest for breathtaking alpine views and a chilling journey into WWII history, exploring Hitler's mountaintop retreat and its dark legacy in the Bavarian Alps.
Perched atop the Kehlstein mountain near Berchtesgaden, the Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) offers stunning panoramic views and a chilling glimpse into World War II history. Built as a teahouse for Adolf Hitler, this architectural marvel is accessible via a scenic bus ride and an elevator through the mountain. Today, it serves as a restaurant and a historical site, drawing visitors from around the globe. While Hitler himself rarely visited, the Eagle's Nest remains a powerful symbol of the Nazi era, offering a unique, if unsettling, experience. The journey to the summit is an adventure in itself, and the views are simply unparalleled, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Be sure to allow ample time to explore the site and reflect on its complex legacy.
A brief summary to The Eagle's Nest
- Kehlsteinhaus, Berchtesgaden, 83471, DE
- +4986522969
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues for the bus and elevator. Pre-booking tickets online is highly recommended.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the Eagle's Nest is often closed due to inclement weather, especially during the shoulder seasons (May, October).
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is some walking involved, both from the bus stop to the elevator and around the summit area.
- Bring cash, as the restaurant and some vendors may not accept credit cards. Euros are the preferred currency.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Obersalzberg Documentation Center to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of the Eagle's Nest.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Berchtesgaden, take bus 838 from the Berchtesgaden train station (Berchtesgaden Hbf) to the Dokumentation Obersalzberg bus stop. From there, transfer to the special Eagle's Nest bus (line 849) at the Kehlstein Busabfahrt. This bus is the only way to access the Kehlsteinhaus, as private vehicles are prohibited on the Kehlsteinstraße. The bus ticket includes the elevator fare to the top. The bus ride up the mountain takes approximately 15 minutes. A roundtrip ticket for the special bus and elevator costs €31.90 for adults and €16.50 for children (ages 6-14). Children under 6 are free. Bus 838 single ticket is approximately €3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Berchtesgaden, a taxi to the Kehlstein Busabfahrt (Eagle's Nest bus departure point) at Obersalzberg will cost approximately €21-€27 and takes around 22 minutes. From there, you must transfer to the special Eagle's Nest bus (line 849) to reach the Kehlsteinhaus. A roundtrip ticket for the special bus and elevator costs €31.90 for adults and €16.50 for children (ages 6-14). Children under 6 are free.
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Driving
Drive to the Parkplatz Obersalzberg – Dokumentationszentrum. Parking costs €5 for a day ticket. From the parking lot, walk to the Kehlstein Busabfahrt (Eagle's Nest bus departure point) and purchase a ticket for the special bus (line 849) to reach the Kehlsteinhaus. This bus is the only way to access the Kehlsteinhaus, as private vehicles are prohibited on the Kehlsteinstraße. A roundtrip ticket for the special bus and elevator costs €31.90 for adults and €16.50 for children (ages 6-14). Children under 6 are free.
Discover more about The Eagle's Nest
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Eagles Nest Historical Tours
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