As soon as the temperatures rise in Munich in spring, the state capital becomes probably the most beautiful place in Germany. Especially when the weather is good, the countryside around Munich is well worth a visit. Where else can you find the highest peaks, picturesque lakes, and impressive waterfalls in the immediate vicinity? If you are looking for a special day trip, you should take a closer look at the Röthbachfall.
The Röthbach Falls, a place of extremes
The Röthbach Falls are not located directly in Munich, but are the perfect destination for a day trip deep into the Berchtesgaden Alps. Like many places in the Alps, this location also holds a record: with a total height of approx. 470 meters, the Röthbach Falls are the highest waterfalls in Germany.
It plunges down in two stages over the almost vertical rock face of the so-called “Röth” into the valley basin behind the Obersee. The sight of the massive rock face, paired with the emerald green water of the Obersee in the foreground, is one of the most photographed motifs in Bavaria. And best of all: now in spring is the perfect time to visit, because after the snow melts , there is a particularly large amount of water flowing here .
An adventurous journey
Getting to the Röthbach Falls is not easy. It can only be reached on foot or by boat. There is no road leading there, which, despite its popularity, gives it an almost mystical atmosphere. The journey there is a little adventure in itself .
From Munich, it takes about 2 hours to drive to Königssee. You have to cross it: take the boat to Saletalm. From there, you can make your way around Obersee. This short, approximately 3-kilometer hike leads along steep rock faces to Fischunkelalm. Behind the alpine pasture, you will pass through a small forest. Then you have made it: the sight of the Röthbach waterfall makes the journey well worth it.
And if that’s not enough for you: just around the corner is the second-highest waterfall in Germany. The Landtalgraben waterfall is located about 700 meters further north, but flows into the same basin as the Röthbachfall.
