We can go hiking in some of the most beautiful mountains around Munich. Are you looking for a real challenge? Instead of taking the gondola to the summit and just going for gentle walks, you will find a mountain in a class of its own in the Berchtesgadener Land : the Watzmann is a true legend. It is considered the symbol of the region and, with its striking shape, is one of the most famous mountains in the world. But if you want to hike here, you should be well prepared .
The highest mountain in Germany with a dark legend
Photo: Unsplash
The middle peak of the Watzmann is 2,713 meters high. It is the third highest mountain in Germany and the highest mountain whose base is completely on German soil! This is because the Zugspitze is shared between Germany and Austria. And the second highest mountain in the country is actually rather unknown.
According to legend, its shape represents the cruel King Watzmann and his family, who were turned to stone as punishment for their sins. The peaks represent the Great Watzmann, Mrs. Watzmann, and their children.
First things first: hiking on the Watzmann is no “walk in the park. “ The mountain is beautiful, but also treacherous. Every year, there are serious accidents here—it is even considered the deadliest in Germany. Never underestimate the length: crossing the peaks is extremely exhausting. Helmets, mountain boots, and via ferrata sets are standard equipment for some tours. Also, remember to bring enough water, as there are no more springs on the mountain itself after the Watzmannhaus.
The tours – only for real pros
Photo: Unsplash
The easiest route is probably the ascent to the Watzmannhaus. From the Wimbachbrücke bridge, hiking trails lead up to an altitude of 1,300 meters. This route is technically easy, but still strenuous.
From this base camp, you will find various more difficult paths to the summits. The route to the Hocheck (2,651 m) leads steeply over rock and scree. It is partly secured with wire ropes, but is considered the “easiest” summit.
A classic, on the other hand, is the Watzmann crossing. You climb for hours over the Hocheck to the Mittelspitze and on to the Südspitze. Only for professionals in excellent physical condition! If you want to try your hand at other climbing walls, you will find the highest wall in the Eastern Alps here: the Watzmann East Wall is 1,800 meters high and should only be attempted with extreme experience.
For those who like it a little “easier”
Photo: Unsplash
But don’t worry, the Watzmann also offers a number of tours for less experienced climbers. The Watzmann circuit is a long valley hike through the spectacular Wimbachgries. It is technically easy but scenically impressive. Without even climbing the summit!
And if you’d rather not hike at all, you can see the Watzmann from below on a boat trip to St. Bartholomä. On the Königssee, you can admire the view of the east face. And at the same time, learn about the legend of Berchtold and the VW Beetle…