Is there anything more silent than an uninhabited forest? Well, here in the Schellenberger Forst, silence reigns supreme. You see, the Schellenberger Forst is no ordinary woodland. This 17.01 square kilometre expanse in the Berchtesgadener Land district of Bavaria is what’s known as a “gemeindefreies Gebiet” – an unincorporated area. That means no residents, no bustling town squares, just the whispering trees and the watchful Untersberg mountain looming above. But don’t mistake its quietude for a lack of history. This forest, nestled against the Austrian border, plays a significant role in the story of the region, particularly when it comes to the legendary salt trade. For centuries, the valuable “white gold” mined in the nearby Berchtesgaden salt mines was transported through this very forest. Imagine the creaking wooden wagons, laden with salt, making their way along the forest paths, their passage a testament to the industry that once thrived here. Today, the Schellenberger Forst is a haven for nature lovers, offering tranquil hiking trails, glimpses of local wildlife, and the chance to experience the beauty of the Bavarian Alps. As you walk these paths, remember the echoes of the past – the salt traders, the whispers of the forest – and appreciate the serene beauty that continues to captivate all who visit the Schellenberger Forst.
Höglwörther See
Did you know that Kloster Höglwörth Abbey was once on an island in the Höglwörther See? This beautiful lake nestled