Eagle's Nest: Hitler's Mountain Retreat

The Eagle's Nest, known in German as the Kehlsteinhaus, is a historic building located atop the Obersalzberg mountain in the Bavarian Alps. Built as a representative site for Adolf Hitler, it now offers breathtaking views and a deep insight into the history of National Socialism. In this blog post, you'll find everything you need to know about the Eagle's Nest, from its history to practical travel tips.

The Eagle's Nest was constructed between 1937 and 1938 on the Kehlstein mountain and served as a teahouse for Hitler and his guests. Situated at an elevation of 1,834 meters, the building was commissioned by Martin Bormann, a high-ranking Nazi Party official, as a gift to Hitler for his 50th birthday. However, due to its difficult accessibility and Hitler's fear of heights, it was rarely visited by him. After World War II, the Allies took over the site, and it now functions as a memorial and museum.

Visitors can reach the Eagle's Nest via a spectacular mountain road, serviced by special Kehlstein buses. At the end of the road, a 124-meter-long tunnel leads to a glass elevator, which takes visitors to the house in just 41 seconds. Inside, there is a restaurant, a viewing platform, and historical exhibitions. The panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and the Berchtesgadener Land are particularly stunning.

The Eagle's Nest is accessible only via the Obersalzberg. By car, you can reach Berchtesgaden via the A8 highway, where parking is available near the Kehlstein bus terminals. From there, visitors must take the designated buses, as private vehicles are not allowed on the mountain road. To make your trip as stress-free and comprehensive as possible, we recommend booking an organized tour with Salzburg Sightseeing Tours, which includes a visit to the Eagle's Nest and offers spectacular views of the Alps. Read more about it here.

The Eagle's Nest is typically open from mid-May to the end of October. Opening hours may vary and are weather-dependent, as the site is closed during the winter due to snow conditions. Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus terminals. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long waiting times.

There are numerous other attractions near the Eagle's Nest. The Dokumentation Obersalzberg offers deeper insights into the history of National Socialism. The remnants of the Berghof, another of Hitler's residences, are also nearby. Additionally, the picturesque region around Berchtesgaden invites visitors to enjoy hiking and exploration, including in the Berchtesgaden National Park.

Where is the Eagle's Nest?
The Eagle's Nest is located on the Kehlstein mountain, a peak of the Obersalzberg near Berchtesgaden in Bavaria, Germany.

Is Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest still standing?
Yes, the Eagle's Nest still stands and is now a popular tourist attraction and historical site.

Can you visit the Eagle's Nest?
Yes, the Eagle's Nest is open to visitors during the warmer months, typically from mid-May to the end of October.

Are Berghof and the Eagle's Nest the same?
No, the Berghof was Hitler's main residence on the Obersalzberg, while the Eagle's Nest was a separate teahouse built on a nearby peak.

A visit to the Eagle's Nest is a remarkable experience, blending natural beauty with a deep historical context. Plan your trip in advance and explore one of Bavaria's most fascinating landmarks.

Book your Eagle's Nest tour from Salzburg here.