Eagle's Nest

Berchtesgaden, Germany

The Kehlsteinhaus (known as the Eagle's Nest in English-speaking countries) is a Third Reich-era edifice erected atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a rocky outcrop that rises near the town of Berchtesgaden. It was presented to Adolf Hitler on his 50th birthday as a retreat and place to entertain friends and visiting dignitaries. Today it is open seasonally as a restaurant, beer garden, and tourist site.

The Kehlsteinhaus was commissioned by Martin Bormann in the summer of 1937 as a 50th birthday gift for Adolf Hitler. Paid for by the Nazi Party, it was completed in 13 months but held until a formal presentation in 1939. From a large car park a 124m entry tunnel leads to an ornate elevator which ascends the final 124m to the building. Its car is surfaced with polished brass, Venetian mirrors and green leather. Construction of the entire project cost the lives of 12 workers. The building's main reception room is dominated by a fireplace of red Italian marble presented by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, which was damaged by Allied soldiers chipping off pieces to take home as souvenirs. Much of the furniture was designed by Paul László.

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Details

Founded: 1937
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Germany
Historical period: Nazi Germany (Germany)

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jon Ingram (11 months ago)
The tunnel and lift are well worth seeing. The views are also amazing but the most spectacular bit is the road up to the site. Parking is charged and the trip via the coach up the mountainside is not cheap but it's a worthy visit. Information boards are sited in the rear gallery in both German and English. The building itself is fairly simple and has been given over to a restaurant though most of the original features are still in place. I was not aware Adolf only visited 14 times but Eva spent lots of time there with guests of her choosing. The original security was worthy learning of too!
Martin Mihálik (11 months ago)
Thw Eagle's Nest didn't disappoint. We took the hike road up by walk and were gifted with the breathtaking view and staggering feeling of the history. The whole Eagle's Nest is nowadays a restaurant where you can get a Schnitzel for 20 euros. Pro tip, you need to buy yourself a ticket for the bus one hour in forward and the last elevator is at quarter past four in the afternoon.
Oug Dubya (12 months ago)
Beautiful area to travel to but expect over crowdedness everywhere. Stunning views. Hike across the boarders. Bus ride is terrifyingly fun. Restaurant is good but staff is over worked. Watch the time on your tickets...that is the key.
Bharathi Mani (12 months ago)
A nature based place as well as Historical. The views on the top are gorgeous. If you don't plan to hike up do buy tickets in advance from the website. This place is very popular. RV buses take you up. I would highly recommend to hike up to the place. It's not a very difficult hike and has a well marked trail. Beginning half is gravel and rest of it paved. Took me 2 hours to go up and an hour and 10 minutes down. Park the car in the parking lot and the trail can be found on the right side of where the RV bus starts going up. Do opposite direction if you came from Berchtesgaden. Take water and get a cap. Would recommend starting early. There is a restaurant on top but it was very busy. There are restrooms
David Kovář (13 months ago)
Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the entire Alps (especially if the weather is clear).Breathtaking nature.Easily walkable trails around the nest. Amenities: On-site restaurant available for purchasing food.However, it's suggested to bring your own snacks and savor them outside with the scenic backdrop. Visiting Tips: Best time to visit: During the warm autumn months.For those who feel cold easily, light warm clothing is recommended.
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