Panorama of Lake Königssee. Copyright: Berchtesgadener Land Tourismus GmbH / Ammon, Photo: Ammon
Enchanting Berchtesgadener Land: Exploring King Watzmann’s Alpine kingdom High-Alpine mountain landscape, pristine valleys and untouched nature, picturesque villages, deeply rooted customs and culture of world class: Berchtesgadener Land is one of Germany’s most impressive mountain regions and convinces with its distinct landscape and vibrant traditions. TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE, BERCHTESGADENER LAND TOURISMUS GMBH
World-famous attractions, breath-taking nature and heartfelt traditions await at Berchtesgadener Land. Lake Königssee, with its crystal-clear water, winds like a fjord through Germany’s only Alpine national park. Whilst crossing over to the peninsula St. Bartholomä, to see the Baroque pilgrimage church and its red onion domes, you can hear the famous echo. Golden eagles, deer, marmots and numerous different plants live and grow undisturbed around Mount Watzmann (2,713 metres). In the town of Berchtesgaden, you can stroll along the royal palace, stunning town houses, charming stores and inviting taverns, or you can embark on an underground adventure in the salt mine. A stunning view of the surrounding mountains can be enjoyed from the Kehlsteinhaus. 70 | Issue 75 | June 2019
The Alpine town Bad Reichenhall is firmly established as an oasis of relaxation. It also offers a varied cultural programme: A concert by the famous Bad Reichenhall philharmonic orchestra; a walk through the upper town with its Gründerzeit and art nouveau villas; a little shopping spree in Bavaria’s first pedestrian zone, where enticing stores such as the original shop of confectioner Reber await; a stroll through the spa gardens, enjoying the sea breeze from the monumental inhalation building, enriching the air with salt ions; or on a clear day, just hop on the Predigtstuhl cable car and explore the beautiful mountain. In the north, Rupertiwinkel is known as a true paradise for families. The scenic pre-Alpine area, with its gorgeously decorated farmhouses and idyllic lakes, is
located between the rivers Saalach and Salzach, which makes it ideal for cycling or hiking. In addition to the Baroque monastery Höglwörth, and the historical Salzachtown Laufen, guests can look forward to colourful flower gardens, culinary pit stops and secluded pastures as well as swimming spots and ravines. Folklore associations keep old customs alive and give insights into deeply rooted local habits. Many craftsmen are committed to traditional methods or run family businesses, which have been around for generations. Fans of homemade cheese, fruity jam or smoked bacon are also in luck thanks to various farmers offering delicious treats on site. At Germany’s south-eastern edge between Chiemsee and Salzburg, heartfelt hospitality is not a trendy buzz word, it’s lived every day.
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