Schonau am Konigssee is an alpine town set on northern tip of Konigssee Lake, backed by soaring mountains, including Germany's second highest peak. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic boat cruises, downhill skiing and summer hikes in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Things to do in Schönau am Königsee
One of the best ways to enjoy Konigssee Lake is on a scenic boat tour. There's nothing like the feeling of floating on the emerald water as you gaze up at the cliffs and rugged mountains. Boats also whisk passengers to St Bartholoma, a domed church on the western shores of the lake.
Stretch your legs on one of the town's scenic walks. From St Bartholoma, a forested trail winds up to Eiskapelle, a year-round snowfield fed by avalanches in the Bavarian Alps. You can also stroll along a 3.5-kilometre waterfront trail to Painter’s Corner, a scenic lookout that commands sweeping views over the lake.
In winter, Schonau am Konigssee transforms into a snow sports hub. Most of the action is centred around Gotschen Skilifte, a compact ski area with slopes for every level. There's plenty to keep the kids entertained in Schonau am Konigssee, including a thrilling bobsleigh, luge and skeleton track.
Berchtesgaden National Park cradles some of Germany's most dramatic mountain scenery. The two-kilometre trail to Watzmann-Ostwand offers a glimpse at the 1,800-metre mountain face first conquered by German mountaineer Johann Grill in 1881.
Getting around Schönau am Königsee
Schonau am Konigssee is easy to get around on foot, with a walk from the town centre to the lakefront taking 30 minutes. Buses run from Berchtesgaden to Schonau am Konigssee in around 25 minutes. Rental cars let you explore Bavaria at your own pace.