The Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest) on Obersalzberg Mountain

The Kehlsteinhaus, also known as "Eagle’s Nest", is a building on the Obersalzberg in Berchtesgaden, Germany. Located in the Alps, it was originally built as a representation building of the National Socialists. Today, the architecturally unique building houses a mountain restaurant with panoramic views.

The Kehlsteinhaus then and now

The Kehlsteinhaus was built under Nazi leadership and completed in 1938. During World War II, the building was used for representation purposes and to host state guests. Unscathed by Allied bombings, the building has been preserved in its original form to this day. Since 1960, the Kehlsteinhaus has been home to a mountain restaurant with an overwhelming 360° panoramic view of the Berchtesgaden Alps, including Lake Königssee, Watzmann, and Hoher Göll.
A closer look at the history of the Obersalzberg and the Nazi dictatorship can be gained by visiting the Documentation Obersalzberg near the departure point for the Kehlstein buses.

A special ascent

The road from Obersalzberg to the Kehlstein parking lot is unique in the world: only one bend overcomes 800 vertical meters. Since 1952, the Kehlstein road has been closed to individual traffic; the ascent is made with special electric buses from the departure point to the Kehlstein parking lot. From there, a 124-meter-long tunnel leads through the rock mass to an elevator lined with mirrors and brass, which brings visitors inside the Kehlsteinhaus in just 41 seconds.

Getting there and details

The easiest way to experience the Kehlsteinhaus is a guided bus tour from Salzburg. The ascent is also possible on foot. Those who prefer a more leisurely return can switch to the bus.
The ascent with the buses and the elevator into the house is also possible with a wheelchair.

Ascent (by bus / on foot / with a mountain bike)