King’s House on Schachen
King Ludwig II's secluded mountain hunting lodge, offering stunning alpine views and a surprisingly opulent interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best hiking weather & views
King’s House on Schachen
Best Time
Best hiking weather & views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
King Ludwig II's secluded mountain hunting lodge, offering stunning alpine views and a surprisingly opulent interior.
"The hike is intensive but rewarding, with amazing views and a unique interior."
Bring Cash for Cafe
The cafe near the lodge accepts cash only for refreshments after your hike. :moneybag:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The 10km uphill hike requires good footwear for comfort and safety on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Oriental Room
Interior of King's House
A surprisingly opulent room built in an exotic oriental style, a stark contrast to the rustic exterior.
Panoramic Alpine Views
Exterior of King's House
Breathtaking vistas of the Bavarian Alps, offering a dramatic backdrop to the historic hunting lodge.
The Rustic Exterior
Exterior of King's House
A charming wooden hunting lodge, seemingly simple but holding a rich history and royal secrets.
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Planning Your Visit
Language Barrier Alert
The Hike is Part of the Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Cafe
The cafe near the lodge accepts cash only for refreshments after your hike. :moneybag:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The 10km uphill hike requires good footwear for comfort and safety on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:
English Guidebook Available
Purchase an English guidebook for basic information, though it's less engaging than the German tour. :book:
Fantastic Viewpoint Nearby
A short walk behind the lodge leads to a pergola with stunning views of Germany's highest peak. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Cafe
The cafe near the lodge accepts cash only for refreshments after your hike. :moneybag:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The 10km uphill hike requires good footwear for comfort and safety on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:
English Guidebook Available
Purchase an English guidebook for basic information, though it's less engaging than the German tour. :book:
Fantastic Viewpoint Nearby
A short walk behind the lodge leads to a pergola with stunning views of Germany's highest peak. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning alpine scenery and the unique historical significance of King's House on Schachen, particularly its opulent Oriental Room. However, many international visitors express disappointment with the lack of English-language tours, finding the experience less accessible and engaging due to the language barrier.
"Disappointing Experience for International Tourists
The guided tour of Schachen Castle was very disappointing, especially for those who don’t speak German. We were the only two Italians in a group of about 15 German-speaking visitors. I wasn’t expecting a tour in Italian, of course, but at the very least some explanations in English – the international language – would have been appropriate.
Instead, we were handed a couple of printed pages in English with very basic information, while the guide spoke only in German, sharing interesting anecdotes and curious stories about the king – arguably the most engaging part of the visit.
Thankfully, one kind German tourist noticed our discomfort and translated a couple of the anecdotes for us. But from the official guides: zero empathy, zero attention, and zero effort to engage with non-German-speaking guests. Even worse, we were offered an English guidebook – for an additional fee. But why should I pay extra for information in a language I understand, when I already paid for a guided tour?
If you’re not going to provide English-language tours or explanations, at least charge less for international visitors. It’s shocking that a cultural site like this offers no real support for foreign tourists. In Italy – which is often criticized for its tourism services – I’ve never experienced anything like this.
A missed opportunity, and a poor way to handle international tourism. A real shame, because the castle itself is fascinating – but the staff’s attitude ruined the experience."
Massimo Introzzi
"A must visit site. The wooden hut of King Ludwig. A long uphill of 10km from the parking near Schloss Elmau. The views are amazing. Recommended during summer time"
George Kontogouris
"Intensive but rewarding hike, tour in the Haus and a Radler in the nearby cafe - a perfect weekend"
Anton Kleymenov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach King's House on Schachen is by hiking. The most common starting point is the parking lot near Schloss Elmau, from where it's an approximately 10km uphill trek. The trail is well-marked but demanding, so allow ample time and wear appropriate gear.
Yes, there is parking available near Schloss Elmau, which serves as a common trailhead for the hike to King's House on Schachen. Be aware that this parking area can fill up, especially during peak season.
No, King's House on Schachen is only accessible by foot. The road leading to it is not open to public vehicles, emphasizing the hiking aspect of the visit.
The hike from the Elmau parking lot to King's House on Schachen typically takes about 2.5 to 4 hours one way, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Information on direct public transport to the Elmau parking lot can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi service from Garmisch-Partenkirchen if you are not arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to purchase tickets for a guided tour to enter King's House on Schachen. Tours are conducted at specific times and are primarily in German.
Opening hours for tours vary seasonally and are typically limited. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Ticket prices are generally for the guided tour. While an English guidebook is available, it incurs an additional fee, which some visitors find unreasonable given the lack of English tours.
No, access to the interior of King's House on Schachen is only permitted via a guided tour. The exterior and surrounding grounds can be admired freely.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on a tour. Check the official Bavarian Palace Department website for booking information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Inside, King's House on Schachen features a surprisingly ornate Oriental Room, a stark contrast to its rustic exterior. Other rooms offer insights into King Ludwig II's life and his love for nature.
The hike is considered moderately difficult due to its length (10km) and consistent uphill gradient. It requires a reasonable level of fitness.
There is a small cafe or mountain hut near King's House on Schachen where you can get refreshments, but it operates on a cash-only basis.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Bavarian Alps. A short walk behind the lodge leads to a viewpoint with views towards Germany's highest peak.
The hike can be challenging for very young children. However, older children who enjoy hiking and nature may find the experience rewarding. The tour itself is relatively short.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the lodge against the alpine backdrop is a prime photo opportunity. Don't miss the viewpoint behind the house for expansive mountain panoramas.
Photography inside King's House on Schachen may be restricted during tours. It's best to ask your guide for permission before taking pictures of the interior rooms.
Morning light often provides beautiful illumination for the lodge and surrounding mountains. Late afternoon can also offer dramatic lighting.
Drone usage is likely restricted in national parks and protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a standard zoom can capture details of the lodge and interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children who enjoy hiking, the journey offers incredible natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment. The unique Oriental Room inside the lodge can also capture a child's imagination. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a full day's activity. The nearby cafe offers a chance to rest and enjoy a treat.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The reward at the top is not just the historic King's House but also the panoramic mountain views. A short walk behind the lodge leads to a viewpoint that is particularly spectacular. The combination of a strenuous hike, historical intrigue, and breathtaking natural beauty makes King's House on Schachen a must-visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of King Ludwig II
Ludwig II had a unique vision for his residences, often incorporating eclectic and even exotic design elements. This is most evident in the Oriental Room within the Schachenhaus, a lavishly decorated space that stands in stark contrast to the building's otherwise rustic, wooden exterior. This room was designed for relaxation and contemplation, reflecting the king's romantic and artistic sensibilities. The contrast between the humble exterior and the opulent interior is a key part of the Schachen experience.
Visiting King's House on Schachen offers a glimpse into the eccentric and artistic world of Ludwig II. The journey itself, a challenging hike through the Bavarian Alps, adds to the sense of discovery and reward, making it more than just a visit to a historical site but an adventure.
The Schachen Hike: A Rewarding Challenge
Hikers should be prepared for a significant elevation gain. The trail winds through forests and open alpine meadows, providing diverse scenery. The effort is consistently rewarded with increasingly spectacular vistas, making it a popular choice for serious hikers and nature enthusiasts.
While the hike is demanding, the payoff is immense. Reaching the summit and the King's House, followed by the stunning panoramic views, makes the exertion worthwhile. There's also a small cafe near the lodge to rest and refuel, though it's important to remember it's cash-only.
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