Hike through the Almbachklamm above Ettenberg
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If you visit Berchtesgadener Land, there is an adventure you shouldn't miss: the hike through the Almbachklamm above Ettenberg. This 3,5-hour circular route takes you through one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Bavaria, a world in which water sets the tone. The gorge itself, a breathtaking natural spectacle of thundering waterfalls, crystal-clear pools and rugged rock faces, will captivate you from the first steps.
The starting point of this journey of discovery is the ball mill, the last of its kind still in operation. From here you immerse yourself in a realm formed by the power and beauty of water. On your way through the gorge you cross 29 bridges, follow well-secured footbridges and let yourself be enchanted by the untouched nature.
But this hike offers more than just the raw beauty of the Almbachklamm. It also takes you to Ettenberg, where the picturesque pilgrimage church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary and the welcoming Messnerwirt await you. Here, at the highest point of your tour, you will see a breathtaking view of the surrounding Berchtesgaden Alps - a sight that is worth the hike alone.
Starting point: The historic ball mill
Your hike through the Almbachklamm begins at a special place: the Kugelmühle. This mill is unique because it is the last ball mill still in operation in the world. Here, balls are ground from local marble, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century.
The ball mill itself is easy to find and serves as a starting point for your tour. Before you set off, it's worth taking a quick look at the mill and its function. You might even want to take a souvenir home with you.
The path leads directly from the mill to the Almbachklamm. The trail is well signposted so you can just concentrate on the beauty of your surroundings.
Practical information:
- Directly behind the Kugelmühle is the ticket office where you can buy your ticket for the Almbachklamm. You can find current prices and opening times here.
- The parking lot is right next to the ball mill and is free. It is advisable to start early in order to anticipate the larger crowds of visitors.
- Toilets and a place to stop for refreshments Inn “Zur Kugelmühle” You can also find it at the ball mill.
Through the Almbachklamm: A natural spectacle made of water and stone
As soon as you have passed the entrance area of the Almbachklamm, a world opens up before you in which water is the undisputed master. The well-developed path takes you along the Almbach, which has cut deep into the rock and created a gorge of exceptional beauty. You follow the course of the stream over a distance of around 3 kilometers, crossing 29 bridges and numerous footbridges, which always offer you new perspectives on the clear, living water and the surrounding rock formations.
These constructions, which fit harmoniously into the landscape, allow you to experience the gorge up close without disturbing the delicate nature. The bridges and footbridges are designed so that you can safely walk over the roaring watercourses and quiet pools. The moments when you stand directly above the water, surrounded by the raw beauty of the gorge, are particularly impressive.
The water of the Almbachklamm has a clarity that you rarely see. In some places you can watch it bubbling over rocks and forming small eddies, in others it falls into cascading waterfalls. The contrast between the tranquility of the pools and the power of the waterfalls is fascinating and shows the diversity of this landscape.
Practical information:
- The path through the gorge is solid and safe, but sturdy shoes are still recommended as the footbridges can be slippery when wet.
- The Almbachklamm is accessible from spring to autumn, although opening times may depend on the weather. It's worth checking the current conditions before your visit.
- Along the way you will find information boards that not only provide interesting information about the flora and fauna of the gorge, but also about the history of the Holzdrift and how the gorge was formed.
The hike through the Almbachklamm is an experience that lets you feel the power and beauty of nature up close. It's a journey through a living work of art made of water and stone that you won't soon forget.
Stopover: The Theresienklause
A striking point on your hike through the Almbachklamm is the Theresienklause, a historic dam that once played a central role in the region's timber industry. This dam, named after the Austrian Empress Maria Theresia, served to dam up the water and use it for timber drift. In this traditional process, felled tree trunks were collected in the water and then brought down to the valley for further processing or transport.
The Theresienklause is an impressive building that is important not only because of its function, but also as a testimony to the regional history and technology. As you stand here, you can easily imagine how the water was once dammed here and then used enormous force to transport the logs through the gorge. Today, information boards remind us of these times and offer an exciting insight into the past.
Practical information:
- At the Theresienklause it is worth taking a short break and studying the information boards that offer pictures and explanations about the wood drift and the history of the gorge.
The Theresienklause not only marks a historically important point in the Almbachklamm, but also serves as a signpost. From here the path branches off and takes you further up to Ettenberg, where new impressions and views await you. The dam is not only a stopover on your hike, but also a link between the wild beauty of the gorge and the cultural treasures that still lie ahead of you.
The climb to Ettenberg
After you have left the historic Theresienklause behind you, the path leads to the right and gradually begins to climb. This section of the hike takes you from the deep gorge of the Almbachklamm up to Ettenberg, a picturesque place known for its breathtaking views and idyllic tranquility. Simply follow the clearly visible signs in the direction of Messnerwirt, which will lead you through a varied landscape.
First you hike on a narrow forest path that gently winds up the slope. Here you can enjoy the silence of the forest and, with a bit of luck, spot local birds or even wild animals. The path is easy to walk on, but challenges your fitness a bit due to its constant climb. After a while you step out of the forest and reach a short stretch of asphalted road that leads you directly to the next highlight of your hike: the pilgrimage church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary and the adjacent Messnerwirt.
The Messnerwirt, a traditional refreshment stop, offers you the perfect opportunity to take a break and enjoy the local cuisine. Here, in the middle of the Berchtesgaden Alps, you can sit on the terrace, fortify yourself and take in the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
A visit to the pilgrimage church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary is no less worthwhile. Built in the Baroque-Rococo style, this church impresses with its elaborate and colorful frescoes. A look inside the church reveals artistic stucco work and paintings that impress with their attention to detail and beauty. It's worth taking some time to admire the peaceful atmosphere and artistic details.
Practical information:
- The climb to Ettenberg takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views.
- You should definitely try the regional specialties at the Messnerwirt. It is advisable to check the opening times in advance, especially if you are traveling outside the peak season.
- Visiting the pilgrimage church is free, but a small donation is requested to support the preservation of the building.
Cultural jewel: Pilgrimage Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary
The pilgrimage church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary in Ettenberg is a cultural highlight of your hike that you shouldn't miss. This church, a masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo architecture, towers over the small town and is an impressive sight even from the outside. But the real work of art is hidden inside.
As soon as you enter the church, you will be overwhelmed by the splendor of the baroque frescoes and the detailed stucco work. The colorful paintings on the ceiling and walls tell biblical stories and give the room an atmosphere of depth and spirituality. The depiction of the Visitation of Mary, after which the church is named, particularly captivates visitors.
Another highlight is the magnificent high altar, which, with its artistic execution and lively figures, is one of the most beautiful of its kind in the region. In addition to the high altar, the side altars also deserve your attention, each of them a work of art in itself that brings the stories of the saints to life.
Practical information:
- The church is usually open to visitors during the day.
- Admission is free, but a small donation is welcome as a token of appreciation for the preservation of this cultural treasure.
Return route: From Ettenberg back to the Kugelmühle
After a short break, the return route takes you back down into the valley, back to the ball mill. The way back offers a different perspective of the landscape and offers you new impressions.
From the church you follow the sign “Hammerstielsteig”, which leads you onto a field path below the church. This part of the path offers you open views of the surrounding landscape with the majestic Untersberg in the background. The fields and meadows, often lined with flowers, form a picturesque contrast to the rugged beauty of the Almbachklamm.
The path then takes you into a forest, where the path becomes a little narrower and winds through a quiet, green environment. Here, in the shade of the trees, you can enjoy the silence of the forest and get ready for the last part of your hike. The path through the forest is well developed, but there are areas with roots and steps that require your attention.
As you approach the ball mill, the path becomes steeper and leads you down in serpentines. This section requires a little caution, especially after rainfall, as the surface can be slippery. But the natural beauty that surrounds you rewards every step.
Practical information:
- The way back takes about 1 hour, depending on your pace and breaks.
- Wear sturdy shoes to be safe on the sometimes uneven and steep sections.
Kugelmühle parking lot
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the hike through the Almbachklamm suitable for children?
Yes, the hike is generally also suitable for children. The path through the gorge is well secured, and the footbridges and bridges make the tour exciting even for little explorers. However, it is important that children are supervised at all times, especially on the narrow paths and near the bridges.
Do I need special equipment for the hike through the Almbachklamm?
No special equipment is required, but sturdy shoes are strongly recommended due to the uneven and wet paths. A water-repellent jacket and possibly a hiking stick can be useful if necessary, especially if the paths are slippery.
How long does the entire hike through the Almbachklamm above Ettenberg take?
The entire circular hike takes around 3,5 hours. This can vary depending on how long you spend at the various sights and whether you use refreshment stops.
Is there parking available near the starting point at the Kugelmühle?
Yes, there is parking available near the Kugelmühle. However, these are limited, so it is advisable to arrive early, especially in high season.
Are dogs allowed on the hike and is there anything special to note?
Dogs are allowed on the hike, but should always be kept on a leash out of consideration for other hikers and wildlife. Also make sure that your dog can walk safely on bridges and footbridges and remember that there are no drinking water points in the gorge.
What are the opening times of the Almbachklamm and are there times when the gorge is not accessible?
The opening times of the Almbachklamm vary depending on the season and weather conditions. The gorge is generally accessible from spring to autumn. It is recommended before the visit the current opening times Please check online or on site as the gorge may be closed in bad weather or out of season.
Can I do the hike even in bad weather?
In light rain, the hike is generally possible, but you should be particularly careful as the paths can become slippery. Visiting is not recommended during heavy rain, thunderstorms or other extreme weather conditions. Safety should always come first.
Are there entrance fees for the Almbachklamm or other costs that I should plan for?
There is an entrance fee for the Almbachklamm, which is used for the maintenance and safety of the paths. You can find the current admission prices here.