Royal House at Schachen via Elmau
Caution
·
21.1miLength
5,406ftElevation gain
12–13hrEstimated time
Loop
• Partial Closure Partnach Gorge: Starting September 21, 2026, a section of the trail past the gorge toward Vordergraseck will be closed due to construction work through November 20, 2026. All other trails around the gorge remain fully accessible. More information: https://www.partnachklamm.de/en
This historic mountain hike leads to one of King Ludwig II's most extraordinary refuges, deep in the Wetterstein Mountains. The trail starts at Kainzenbad train station and follows the classic Königsweg (King's Trail) up to Schachen. The route runs along a mixture of wide forest roads, which were laid out for the royal riding trail, and steeper paths in the summit region. A central highlight is the wooden royal house, which appears simple on the outside but houses the magnificent, oriental "Turkish Hall" on the upper floor. The alpine highlands and rock faces are an excellent place to observe chamois, alpine jackdaws and, with a little luck, golden eagles.
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Top sights
Partnach Gorge
Gorge
Pferdekutsche zur Klamm
Attraction
Schachentorkopf
Peak
Alpengarten auf dem Schachen
Garden
Königshaus am Schachen
Castle
Pferdekutsche nach Garmisch
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 21.1-mile loop trail near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 44 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and rock climbing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
What is the expected weather this week for Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Expected weather for Royal House at Schachen via Elmau for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 64 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 64 degrees/foggy
- Fri, September 25 - 71 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 75 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 78 degrees/clear
Where is Royal House at Schachen via Elmau located?
Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is a trail located in Naturschutzgebiet Schachen und Reintal.
How hard is Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is considered a hard hike that covers 21.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,406 ft. It takes about 12–13 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
What is the elevation gain for Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is considered a hard hike that covers 21.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,406 ft. It takes about 12–13 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Royal House at Schachen via Elmau a loop?
Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is a loop trail that covers 21.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,406 ft. It takes about 12–13 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is a loop trail that covers 21.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,406 ft. It takes about 12–13 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Dogs may be allowed on Royal House at Schachen via Elmau. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Is rock climbing allowed at Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Rock climbing is allowed on Royal House at Schachen via Elmau in Naturschutzgebiet Schachen und Reintal. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Are there forests at Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Yes, Royal House at Schachen via Elmau is a forest trail in Naturschutzgebiet Schachen und Reintal.
Are there wildflowers at Royal House at Schachen via Elmau?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Royal House at Schachen via Elmau, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 3:55 am GMT+0