This Bavarian village sits beside the clear waters of Königssee lake. Electric boats carry visitors past steep cliffs, while hiking trails lead to salt mines and the historic Eagle's Nest.
Schönau am Königssee sits at the edge of Königssee, Germany's deepest alpine lake. The village serves as the gateway to Berchtesgaden National Park, where you can hike through alpine meadows or ski down Jenner Mountain's slopes. Watch Olympic athletes train at the historic 1968 bobsleigh track, or take an electric boat across the crystal-clear lake to see the red onion domes of St. Bartholomew's Church.
Getting to Schönau am Königssee
Drive to Schönau via the German Alpine Road or through Salzburg. Salzburg Airport is 20km away, while Munich Airport is 200km north. Take a train from Munich's main station to Berchtesgaden (2.5 hours), then catch a local bus to Schönau.
Winter Sports on Jenner Mountain
The Jenner ski area spans 20km of marked slopes, ranging from beginner runs near the base station to challenging black diamond trails at 1,874m elevation. Catch the ski bus from Schönau's center (runs every 30 minutes during winter season) or park at the Jennerbahn cable car station. The 1968 bobsleigh track hosts international competitions from October to March, and you can watch training sessions most mornings.
Exploring Königssee Lake
Electric boats depart every 30 minutes in summer and hourly in winter from the main dock. The 35-minute journey to St. Bartholomew's Church takes you past 2,000m-high rock faces. Boat captains demonstrate the lake's famous echo by playing a trumpet toward the rock walls. The lake's depth reaches 190m and its water is so clear you can see 10m down.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Summer temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for hiking and swimming. Winter brings snow from December to March, with temperatures between -5°C and 5°C. Spring sees frequent rain showers with temperatures around 15°C. October typically stays dry with temperatures between 8°C and 15°C, making it good for hiking with fewer crowds.
