Kehlsteinhaus, known in English as the Eagle's Nest, is a popular destination for those interested in World War II history.

Hitler's close associates gave him the house as a surprise 50th birthday present. Many visitors come under the mistaken impression that this was Hitler's secondary HQ/vacation getaway. Actually Hitler hated the house, and rarely spent more than a few hours here. Photos of him in the Alps are almost all from the Berghof, a chalet further down the mountain, where he did spend a lot of time. Nothing remains of the Berghof, which was damaged in bombing raids, and later dynamited by the Allies.

Reaching the Eagle's Nest is no easier today than it was 70 years ago. The steep, narrow road is only open to specially-equipped buses. Visitors park at the base of the hill, buy a bus ticket, and then ride up to the upper bus station. From there an elevator drilled through solid granite ascends the last 400' to the house, which is now operated as a restaurant.

Be sure to reserve your return trip time as soon as you arrive at the upper bus stop. Buses are often full, and without a reserved seat you could be in for a long wait. Two hours at the top is sufficient for a bite to eat, and a walk along the path for views of the house and surrounding Alps.

Tags: Bavaria, Kehlsteinhaus