Watzmannhaus
A rustic mountain lodge at 1930m offering stunning alpine views, hearty meals, and a base for Watzmann adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hut is open
Watzmannhaus
Best Time
Hut is open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic mountain lodge at 1930m offering stunning alpine views, hearty meals, and a base for Watzmann adventures.
"The view is magnificent and it's a perfect place to spend the night before summiting the Watzmann!"
Book Accommodation Early
Watzmannhaus is popular; book rooms or dorms in advance, especially in summer.
Pack Hiking Essentials
Sturdy boots, layers, and rain gear are crucial for the challenging hike up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Watzmann Summit
Watzmann Peak
The ultimate goal for many, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps.
Watzmannhaus Terrace Views
Watzmannhaus Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the lodge's terrace.
Watzmann Traverse
Watzmann Ridge
An iconic, challenging ridge hike offering a true alpine adventure with dramatic drops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Watzmannhaus
+1Prepare for the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Accommodation Early
Watzmannhaus is popular; book rooms or dorms in advance, especially in summer.
Pack Hiking Essentials
Sturdy boots, layers, and rain gear are crucial for the challenging hike up.
Tap Water Policy
Some guests question being charged for tap water; bring a filter or be prepared.
Delicious Food Available
Enjoy hearty meals like Schnitzel; the food is praised by many visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Accommodation Early
Watzmannhaus is popular; book rooms or dorms in advance, especially in summer.
Pack Hiking Essentials
Sturdy boots, layers, and rain gear are crucial for the challenging hike up.
Tap Water Policy
Some guests question being charged for tap water; bring a filter or be prepared.
Delicious Food Available
Enjoy hearty meals like Schnitzel; the food is praised by many visitors.
No Showers Available
Be aware that showers are limited or unavailable; plan for a 'washroom' experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Watzmannhaus is lauded for its incredible mountain location and magnificent views, with many praising the friendly staff and delicious food, particularly the Schnitzel. However, some guests express dissatisfaction with being charged for tap water and the limited shower facilities.
"Wonderful mountain cabin! Prices are reasonable given the location, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the rooms are warm and clean. There's a gear room to leave your boots and let your clothes dry, as well loaner slides to wear inside the cabin. Food is delicious and there is potable water available for €2/liter. Keep in mind there are no showers, there is a "washroom" but the water pressure is low to conserve water. The view is magnificent and it's a perfect place to spend the night before summiting the Watzmann!"
Liam Stevenson
"A beautiful location and good food but take issue with being charged for water by claiming the tap water is not drinkable. I very much doubt there are two plumbing systems in the building."
Chris Coldwell
"Incredible location! Absolutely worth the hike up. Very friendly staff and delicious Schnitzel!"
Steven Catudal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
There are several routes to Watzmannhaus. A popular option starts from Königssee, involving a significant ascent of over 1,300 meters. Another route begins from Hammerstiel or Wimbachbrücke. The hike is challenging and requires good fitness.
No, Watzmannhaus is a mountain hut accessible only by foot. You can drive to nearby starting points like Königssee or Ramsau and then begin your hike.
The hike is considered difficult due to the significant elevation gain and sometimes steep terrain. It's a test of will and requires good stamina.
Yes, the hut is supplied via a material cable car, which helps in transporting goods to this remote location.
Common starting points include Königssee, Hammerstiel, and Wimbachbrücke, offering different routes and challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak season, as it's a popular mountain lodge.
Watzmannhaus is typically open from mid to late May until mid-October. For 2025, it was open until October 11th. Always check current season dates.
Yes, Watzmannhaus offers unfussy rooms and dormitories, catering to various traveler needs.
There is no specific entrance fee to hike to Watzmannhaus itself, but you will need to pay for accommodation if you stay overnight.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's advisable to carry some cash as mountain huts may have limited card facilities.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Watzmannhaus is situated at an altitude of 1,930 meters (6,332 feet) above sea level.
The hut provides a gear room for boots and drying clothes, and offers loaner slides for indoor use. Potable water is available for a fee.
Showers are limited or unavailable. There is a 'washroom' with low water pressure, primarily for water conservation.
The view from Watzmannhaus is magnificent, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding Berchtesgaden Alps and Königssee.
While the hike to Watzmannhaus is challenging, the hut itself is a destination. The Watzmann traverse, however, is for experienced mountaineers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The food at Watzmannhaus is generally praised, with visitors highlighting delicious meals like Schnitzel. It's a great place to refuel after a hike.
Potable water is available for purchase at a fee (around €2 per liter). Some guests have questioned the necessity of this charge.
While not explicitly forbidden, mountain huts typically expect guests to purchase food and drinks. It's best to check their policy if you plan to bring your own.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but mountain huts usually offer a few standard choices. It's advisable to inquire upon arrival or when booking.
Yes, visitors often stop by for a meal or refreshments during their hike, enjoying the food and the views.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the terrace and the summit are incredible. Capture the dramatic Watzmann ridge and the stunning alpine landscapes.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography. Early mornings can also provide clearer views before clouds roll in.
Absolutely! The Watzmann summit and its surrounding peaks offer spectacular photographic subjects, especially during clear weather.
The terrace itself is a prime spot. Additionally, as you hike towards the summit, numerous viewpoints open up, offering different perspectives of the Königssee and the Alps.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the journey as much as the destination. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear. The 'washroom' facilities might be a novel experience for children, but it's important to manage expectations regarding showers. The delicious food at the hut can also be a good motivator for younger hikers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing some of your own non-perishable snacks to supplement meals at the hut. The main expense will be accommodation and any meals you choose to purchase. The incredible views and the experience of staying in the Alps are priceless, offering great value for the money.
💑 Couples
+1Enjoy a hearty meal together after a day of hiking, and wake up to stunning alpine sunrises. The rustic charm of the hut, combined with the majestic scenery, creates an unforgettable experience. It's an ideal destination for couples seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Watzmann Traverse: An Alpine Challenge
+2This tour is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced hikers. It requires excellent physical condition, a head for heights, and solid alpine climbing experience. The traverse can take anywhere from 8 to 14 hours, depending on your pace and conditions. Many climbers choose to stay overnight at the Watzmannhaus to get an early start, allowing them to tackle the ridge in daylight and with more energy.
For those who successfully complete the Watzmann Traverse, the sense of accomplishment is immense. It's a journey that pushes your limits and rewards you with some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in Germany. Always check weather conditions thoroughly before attempting this challenging route.
Getting to Watzmannhaus: The Hiking Experience
+1Another common starting point is the Wimbachbrücke or Hammerstiel. These routes also present a significant physical challenge, with steady ascents that test your endurance. Along the way, you might pass charming alpine pastures like the Kührointalm or Mitterkaseralm, where you can pause for refreshments.
+1Regardless of the chosen path, the hike to Watzmannhaus is a rewarding experience that immerses you in the natural beauty of the Berchtesgaden National Park. It's crucial to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, and to be prepared for changing mountain weather. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
Life at the Hut: Amenities and Atmosphere
Practical amenities include a dedicated gear room for drying boots and clothes, and loaner slides to wear inside the hut. While showers are limited and water pressure can be low due to conservation efforts, the availability of potable water (for a fee) and delicious food, like the highly-rated Schnitzel, enhances the stay.
The true highlight, however, is the unparalleled view from the terrace. It's a place to relax, share stories with fellow hikers, and soak in the magnificent alpine scenery. The hut is typically open from mid-May to mid-October, making it a seasonal destination for mountain enthusiasts.
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Social
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