Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä
83% of reviewers say this trail is hard
7miLength
2,824ftElevation gain
Point to point
Popular hike/via ferrata in the Berchtesgaden National Park, Bavaria.
The hike offers incomparable views of the blue waters of Lake Königssee and starts in Schönau am Königssee at the paid hiking car park. The destination is the world-famous pilgrimage church of St Bartholomä on the western shore of the lake. From the starting point, the trail climbs steeply uphill to the seasonally managed Kührointalm - a nice place to take a break. The trail continues to the left and soon it is worth making a detour to the 1346 metre high summit of the Archenkanzel to enjoy the magnificent view. This is where the last section begins as a via ferrata. The descent is very steep, strenuous and partly secured by wire ropes. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are required for this tour as well as sturdy footwear.
Please note: some of the paths are unmarked and slippery, which is why the hike is only recommended in dry conditions.
Highlights of the hike:
- Schönau am Königssee
- Kühroint-Alm
- Detour to the Archenkanzel (optional)
- Breathtaking views of the Königssee and the Watzmann massif
- St. Bartholomä
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Archenkanzel
Viewpoint
Kührointhütte
Alpine hut
Königssee
Lake
St. Bartholomä
Church
Kührointalm
Alpine hut
Ostwandlager
Hut
Gedenkstein
Attraction
Sommerbichl
Peak
Archenkopf
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 7.0-mile point-to-point trail near Schönau am Königsee, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route. This is a very popular area for hiking and via ferrata, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Expected weather for Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä for the next 5 days is:
- Tue, September 22 - 54 degrees/foggy
- Wed, September 23 - 56 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 49 degrees/drizzle
- Fri, September 25 - 64 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 70 degrees/clear
Where is Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä located?
Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä is a trail located in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are dogs allowed on Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Dogs may be allowed on Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä.
How busy is Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
According to trailgoers, Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä is usually busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä.
Are there scenic views at Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Yes, Archenkanzel is located on Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä.
Are there lakes at Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Yes, Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä is near Königssee.
Is Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä a via ferrata route?
Yes, Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä is a via ferrata route in Berchtesgaden National Park that requires special equipment and extra planning.
Are there forests at Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Yes, Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä is a forest trail in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Schönau am Königssee - St. Bartolomä includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on September 21, 2026 at 11:35 pm GMT+0