Schönau am Königssee Live Cam

Schönau am Königssee is a picturesque village located in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Its history is intertwined with the surrounding region and reflects the broader historical developments of the area.

Early History: The region around Königssee has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric settlements in the area. However, the village of Schönau itself didn't emerge until much later.

Religious Influence: The village's history is closely linked to the St. Bartholomew's Church, a famous pilgrimage site located on the western shore of Lake Königssee. The church was founded in the 12th century and has attracted pilgrims and tourists alike due to its stunning location and distinctive architecture.

Economic Activities: For much of its history, the economy of Schönau am Königssee was centered around agriculture, with farming and livestock playing a crucial role in the village's sustenance. Additionally, the surrounding forests provided resources like wood and game.

Tourism Development: In the 19th century, as interest in natural beauty and outdoor recreation grew, Schönau am Königssee began to develop as a tourist destination. The opening of the railway line in nearby Berchtesgaden in the late 1800s further facilitated the influx of visitors.

Nazi Era: The region, including Schönau, played a notable role during the Nazi era. Adolf Hitler had a residence known as the "Berghof" on the nearby Obersalzberg mountain. The area also housed Nazi administrative offices and served as a vacation spot for Nazi officials. The remnants of these facilities are still present and are now sites of historical interest.

Post-War Period: After World War II, the region, like much of Germany, went through a period of rebuilding and recovery. Schönau continued to develop as a tourist destination, capitalizing on its stunning natural surroundings.

Environmental Advocacy: In recent times, Schönau am Königssee gained attention for its environmental initiatives. The village became known for its efforts to promote renewable energy and sustainability. In the early 1990s, it made headlines for successfully buying back the local energy grid from a large utility company to focus on renewable energy sources.

Today, Schönau am Königssee remains a popular tourist destination, known for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, outdoor activities, and historical sites. The village's history reflects the evolution of the region from its early roots to its present-day status as a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Top Tourist Attractions

• Königssee Lake: This pristine alpine lake is one of the main attractions in the area. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Visitors can take boat trips on electric-powered boats that offer a peaceful and scenic ride. The famous pilgrimage site, St. Bartholomew's Church, is located on the western shore of the lake.
• St. Bartholomew's Church: This historic church is located right by Königssee Lake. It was founded in the 12th century and is known for its distinctive red domes. The church has become an iconic symbol of the area and is a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and tourists.
• Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus): Perched on the Kehlstein mountain, the Eagle's Nest is a former Nazi retreat that offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. The building itself has been turned into a restaurant and visitor center, accessible by a special bus and an elevator tunnel.
• Jenner Mountain: The Jennerbahn cable car takes visitors to Jenner Mountain, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the Königssee and the surrounding landscapes. The mountain offers various hiking trails suitable for different levels of hikers.
• Watzmann Mountain: The Watzmann is one of the highest peaks in Germany and a popular destination for mountaineers and hikers. It offers challenging hiking routes and impressive vistas of the region.
• Malergarten: This park area near Königssee Lake is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. It's a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
• Berchtesgaden National Park: While not within the village itself, this national park encompasses a significant part of the surrounding area. It's a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and wildlife.
• Salt Mine Berchtesgaden: Located nearby, this historic salt mine offers guided tours that take visitors deep underground to learn about the region's salt mining history and the fascinating process of extracting salt.
• Ramsau Church and Hintersee: Just a short drive from Schönau, the Ramsau Church is a picturesque church with the iconic backdrop of the Watzmann Mountain. Hintersee Lake is also a tranquil spot for nature lovers and photographers.
• Königssee Bobbahn: For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Königssee Bobbahn is a bobsled and luge track where you can experience high-speed rides on a professional track.

These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activities that make Schönau am Königssee a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the beauty of the Bavarian Alps.

Climate

The Municipality, situated in the Bavarian Alps of Germany, experiences a continental climate with some alpine influences due to its elevation. Here's an overview of the climate you can expect in Schönau am Königssee:

• Winter (December - February): Winters in Schönau am Königssee are cold and snowy. The village is surrounded by mountains, which can result in significant snowfall during this period. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and it's not uncommon for the landscape to be covered in a thick blanket of snow.
• Spring (March - May): Spring sees a gradual transition from the cold of winter to milder temperatures. Snow starts to melt, and the landscape begins to come alive with blooming flowers and budding trees. However, March and even April can still be quite chilly, so it's advisable to pack warm clothing.
• Summer (June - August): The summer months in Schönau am Königssee are relatively mild and pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This is the peak tourist season, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and sightseeing. The surrounding mountains offer some relief from the heat, and rainfall is generally moderate.
• Autumn (September - November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures as the village prepares for winter. The landscape turns into a symphony of autumn colors as the leaves change, making it a scenic time to visit. September can still offer pleasant weather, but temperatures drop significantly in October and November.

Keep in mind that weather in mountainous regions like Schönau am Königssee can be unpredictable, and it's a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip. Additionally, higher elevations can experience cooler temperatures than those in the village itself. If you plan to visit during the winter months, make sure to be prepared for snowy conditions and possible road closures due to weather.

Geography

It is situated in the heart of the Bavarian Alps and is known for its stunning alpine landscapes and proximity to natural wonders. Here's a breakdown of the geography of Schönau am Königssee:

• Location: Schönau am Königssee is positioned near the Austrian border, in the Berchtesgadener Land district of Bavaria. It is about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) south of the city of Salzburg in Austria.
• Alpine Setting: The village is nestled within the Alps, providing it with a picturesque backdrop of towering mountains, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is characterized by rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes.
• Königssee Lake: One of the standout features of the area is Königssee Lake, a pristine and deep alpine lake that stretches for about 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles) surrounded by steep cliffs and forested slopes. The lake's waters are known for their remarkable clarity.
• Mountains: Schönau am Königssee is surrounded by several prominent peaks of the Bavarian Alps. Some of the notable mountains include the Watzmann, which is one of Germany's highest peaks, and the Jenner Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the Königssee and the surrounding area.
• Berchtesgaden National Park: The village is located on the edge of the Berchtesgaden National Park, a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems, alpine landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The park encompasses a range of habitats, from dense forests to alpine meadows.
• Eagle's Nest: The Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), a former Nazi retreat, is perched on the Kehlstein mountain near Schönau am Königssee. It provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Ramsau Plateau: Just a short drive from Schönau, the Ramsau Plateau offers expansive meadows, rolling hills, and stunning vistas of the Watzmann Mountain. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
• Salt Mines: The area around Schönau am Königssee has a history of salt mining, and there are still salt mines that can be explored as part of guided tours. These mines offer insights into the region's geological history and economic significance.

The geography of Schönau am Königssee is characterized by its alpine beauty, with mountains, lakes, and lush valleys providing a spectacular natural setting for visitors to explore and enjoy.