Watzmann

The Watzmann is the mountain that defines Berchtesgaden — a colossal double-summited massif with its principal peak at 2,713 metres (Germany's third highest), its glaciated flanks visible from much of the Berchtesgaden valley. The east face drops precipitously above the Königssee in a wall that is one of the great challenges of the German Alps.

For most visitors, the Watzmann is a spectacular backdrop rather than a climbing objective. The family of peaks (Vater, Mutter, and the five Watzmannkinder) forms a ridge visible from the Königssee boat. Serious hikers can reach the summit via the Wimbachgries valley approach (a long day from Berchtesgaden), but this requires alpine experience and fitness. The easier and more accessible viewpoint is from the Jenner mountain, reached by gondola from Schönau.

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The Watzmann's east face — a 1,800-metre vertical drop above the Königssee — is one of the most feared mountain walls in the Alps. More than 100 climbers have died attempting it since systematic records began. The ridge traverse connecting the main summit to the lower peaks (the Watzmannkind) is the longest and most exposed alpine ridgewalk in Germany.

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