We further indulged our historical interest in the Second World War with a trip to the Eagle’s Nest. This site was
well known in news and pictures as a place of refuge for members of the Nazi party elite and continues to be a backdrop for movies and television shows.
The Eagle’s Nest was not demolished by the allies after the war. Many say it was because Hitler never really liked the spot and rarely spent time there. Locals say it was because it was completely covered in snow during the bombing in April so was overlooked. Either way it remains as a tourist attraction featuring a restaurant, amazing views and a great story.
We took this day trip from Munich with Grey Line bus tours. Our guide was Elizabeth. You can get more details from https://www.viator.com/tours/Munich/Berchtesgaden-and-Eagles-Nest-Day-Tour-from-Munich/d487-285011. Please note that the tour does not include the entry fee to Eagle’s Nest which was an additional €28. Also if the weather is bad you will be taken on a tour of the Salt Mines instead.
Regardless of how you may feel about the destination know that the drive through the foothills of the Bavarian Alps as we approached Obersalzburg and our descent up the mountain range was breathtaking. We experienced every weather possible throughout the day.
From the ticket kiosk near the parking lot there is a 15 minute bus ride that takes you up the winding mountain road
to the entry tunnel. At the end of the 143m tunnel is the Golden Elevator which completes the 41 second trip to the final stop. The views from the terrace are amazing and you can walk further up to a vantage point to get a better view of the building.
Eagle’s Nest was built in one year over 1937 to 1938. It was essentially a meeting hall. There were no bedrooms or kitchens as they never stayed overnight and would bring in lunch if the day went too long. The fireplace commands the main room showcasing the famous mantelpiece gifted to Hitler from Mussolini.
Hitler himself really didn’t like it (there are only 14 confirmed visits) but instead preferred his home further down the mountain, Berghof. Although all that stands of this residence is a sliver of foundation and the amazing views, our guide walked us to its location so we could explore more of the area. She also provided a map detailing the locations of vacation homes for Hitler’s top men, the barracks and training grounds and other long forgotten relics from this era. A guard gate still stands at the bottom of the road.
One of the most profound moments for me during this tour was when our guide Elizabeth, as she regaled us with stories, said it was important for Germans to talk about their dark history, as only the truth will take Hitler’s power away.