Berchtesgaden Overview
Berchtesgaden National Park, known locally as Nationalpark Berchtesgaden, is a protected area in the southeastern corner of Germany, near the border with Austria.
Established in 1978, it is Bavaria’s only national park and covers approximately 81 square miles (210 square kilometers). The park is located in the Berchtesgadener Alps, within the district of Berchtesgadener Land, and is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and rich biodiversity.
The terrain of Berchtesgaden National Park is defined by its steep alpine peaks, deep valleys, and glacially carved landscapes. The Watzmann Mountain, rising to 2,713 meters (8,901 feet), is one of the most recognizable features of the park, known for its striking pyramid-like shape.
The Königssee, a crystal-clear lake nestled between steep mountain walls, is another defining feature, often considered one of Germany’s most beautiful lakes. Its fjord-like appearance, combined with its emerald waters, makes it a central attraction within the park.
Another notable water body is the Obersee, a smaller but equally picturesque lake adjacent to Königssee. The park is also home to cascading waterfalls, such as the Röthbach Waterfall, Germany’s highest waterfall, plunging over 470 meters (1,542 feet). The vegetation varies with altitude, from lush mixed forests of beech, fir, and spruce in the lower regions to alpine meadows with colorful wildflowers and stunted pines in higher elevations.
Berchtesgaden National Park is a haven for wildlife, with many species thriving in its untouched landscapes. Among the mammals commonly seen are the Alpine ibex, which was successfully reintroduced to the region, the chamois, and the elusive Eurasian lynx. Red deer, roe deer, and marmots are also prevalent.
The birdlife in the park is equally impressive, with notable species such as the golden eagle, which soars over the alpine ridges, and the Eurasian pygmy owl, one of Europe’s smallest owls. The wallcreeper, a rare and strikingly colored bird, is often spotted clinging to steep rock faces.
One of the most popular features of Berchtesgaden National Park is the Malerwinkel viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panorama of Königssee and the surrounding peaks. Another favorite is the St. Bartholomä Church, a red-domed pilgrimage chapel on the shores of Königssee, accessible only by boat.
The Jennerbahn cable car provides visitors with an easy way to ascend the Jenner Mountain for sweeping views of the Watzmann massif. Hiking is one of the primary ways to explore the park, with trails ranging from gentle lakeside walks to challenging alpine ascents. Winter activities such as snowshoeing and ski touring are also popular.
Conservation efforts in Berchtesgaden National Park have focused on preserving the region’s fragile alpine ecosystems while maintaining sustainable tourism. Strict regulations protect the natural environment, and wildlife conservation programs, such as the reintroduction of the Alpine ibex, have been successful.
Challenges include balancing visitor impact with conservation efforts and addressing climate change, which is affecting the region’s glaciers and alpine flora. Despite these challenges, the park remains a model for conservation in the Alps, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and an unspoiled landscape for nature enthusiasts.