Also available in: Deutsch
Between striking mountains, clear lakes, and a picture-perfect setting that almost seems unreal, Ramsau is one of the most beautiful day-trip destinations in the Berchtesgadener Land. That is exactly why Ramsau is worth more than just a quick photo stop—above all, it deserves a few active and varied hours (or even days) in nature.
The Best Sights and Things to Do Around Ramsau in Berchtesgadener Land
Ramsau is small, but there is a surprising amount of variety all around it. Here you will find famous postcard motifs, easy walks, scenic hikes, and destinations that can easily be combined. That is exactly what makes Ramsau so popular. You can stroll comfortably through the village, drive to Hintersee, or take on a longer tour, such as one through Wimbachtal.
Our personal Ramsau tips show you which places are especially worth visiting and where you can best experience the mix of nature, views, and a typical Alpine setting.
Accommodation in Ramsau – Our Tip
The Ferienwohnungen Stocker in Ramsau near Berchtesgaden are a great choice for anyone who likes things quiet, well-kept, and close to nature. The two vacation apartments are set against a beautiful mountain backdrop and stand out above all for the large balcony as well as the wonderful views of Watzmann and Hochkalter. The very clean, cozy furnishings and the pleasant, personal atmosphere are especially lovely as well.
The location is ideal as well: you stay in a quiet setting but are still close to the village and have a great starting point for hikes and excursions in Ramsau as well as in the Berchtesgadener Land.
Of course, there are also other lovely accommodations in Ramsau and the surrounding area that you can find here.
1. St. Sebastian Parish Church
St. Sebastian Parish Church is without question the most iconic sight in Ramsau and of course cannot be missing from our Ramsau tips. The small church stands right by the Ramsauer Ache and, with the mountain backdrop behind it, almost looks painted. The view from the famous Malerwinkel Bridge is especially beautiful. That is exactly where the classic photo is taken—the one that most people think of first when Ramsau comes to mind. Still, it is worth not only stopping briefly for a picture but also taking a look around the church and down by the water. The setting is truly special.
Even though the church is rather small, it fits perfectly into the landscape and gives the village its unmistakable character. All around it, you can enjoy a relaxed walk, spend a few minutes by the bank, or take in the mountain views. Especially in the morning or later in the afternoon, the scenery often feels particularly atmospheric. If you only have limited time, this is one of the places in Ramsau that you definitely should not miss.
2. Ramsau Village
Ramsau village itself is not a place you need to check off in an hour. It is much nicer to take some time and walk through the small village center without a fixed destination. That is exactly what makes a stay in Ramsau so pleasant. It is not just about individual sights, but also about the atmosphere. Between traditional houses, green slopes, and mountain views, everything feels pleasantly calm and unhurried.
It is also practical that several destinations can easily be combined from the village. You can start at the church, walk along the Ache, and then continue on toward Hintersee, Wimbach, or set off on a hike. Ramsau is therefore not just suitable as a short stop, but also as a good base for an entire day. Especially if you like nature but are not planning a major mountain tour right away, this is exactly the right place for you.
3. Hintersee and Zauberwald
For us, Hintersee is one of the most beautiful destinations in the area and one of the most important Ramsau tips overall. The lake is beautifully set between forested slopes and mountains and, in calm weather, looks almost too picturesque to be real. A walk along the shore is always worthwhile because new views of the water, the rocks, and the surrounding peaks keep opening up. The loop around the lake is especially popular, easy to manage, and fun even if you have not planned a full day of hiking.
Right next to it is the Zauberwald, which truly lives up to its name. Mosses, rocks, small paths, and the play of light and shadow make this section especially appealing. It is also a lovely destination with children because the path is varied and there is something to discover everywhere. If you enjoy photographing natural scenery or simply like relaxed walks, you should definitely include this area in your plans. Of all the Ramsau tips, this is one of the places where landscape and light activity go together perfectly.
4. Wimbachklamm
Wimbachklamm is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Ramsau. Walkways and narrow paths bring you right up to the roaring water as it forces its way through the narrow gorge. Especially after rain or during times of high water, the experience is particularly intense. We had the “luck” that it had rained for two days before our visit.
It is not a long day trip, but that is exactly why it can easily be built into a varied day. If you are looking for Ramsau tips that feel spectacular without immediately requiring a major mountain hike, Wimbachklamm is a perfect fit.
Walking through the gorge itself is already the highlight. It roars, splashes, and in many places you are very close to the rock and the water. Good shoes are a good idea here because it can be damp and slippery. If you like, you can combine the visit with the Wimbachtal (see the next point) or another stop in the surrounding area. For us, Wimbachklamm is one of those classics you should see at least once when you are in Ramsau. We loved it!
5. Wimbachtal
While Wimbachklamm is rather short and intense, Wimbachtal feels wide and untouched. That contrast is exactly what makes it so appealing. Beyond the gorge, an impressive landscape opens up, with a broad valley floor, scree fields, and high mountains on both sides. The whole setting feels much more Alpine and wild than you might expect after first seeing the tranquil village of Ramsau. Among the Ramsau tips, Wimbachtal is therefore especially exciting for anyone who enjoys spending more time on the trail.
The route is well suited to a longer hike in which the focus is less on individual sights and much more on the landscape itself. Step by step, you walk deeper into the valley and quickly notice how quiet and expansive the surroundings become. Anyone who enjoys photography or simply wants to soak up the mountain scenery is in the right place here.
This tour is better suited to days when you want to experience nature more mindfully and not just check off as many stops as possible.
6. Toter Mann and Hirscheck
Toter Mann and Hirscheck are two well-known peaks or scenic hiking destinations in the area and are especially worthwhile if you are looking for Ramsau tips with panoramic views. Both offer wide views over the Berchtesgadener Land and take you from the valley floor into a much more open mountain landscape. For that reason alone, they are a lovely addition to places like Hintersee or Wimbachklamm, which are located down in the valley.
Of course, tours like these are a bit more demanding than a walk through the village or around the lake. In return, though, you get exactly what many people are looking for in the Alps: exercise, fresh mountain air, and views. Depending on your fitness level and planning, you should allow enough time. If you enjoy hiking and want to get to know Ramsau beyond the best-known photo spots, Toter Mann and Hirscheck are a really great choice.
If you do not want to hike, simply take the Hirscheckbahn, an open chairlift. You can find more info here.
7. Halsalm
The hike to Halsalm is one of those Ramsau tips that combine a nature experience and a mountain-hut stop really well. The trail there is already fun because you gradually gain elevation and the views keep getting better. At the top, not only does the typical alpine pasture scenery await, but also a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. Especially on clear days, this is a destination that is truly worth it.
Halsalm is a good fit for you if you are looking for a scenic hike that offers a little more than simple forest paths. Reaching the top and looking out over the landscape is clearly one of the most beautiful moments here. At the same time, the tour is a wonderful way to experience Ramsau more actively. Instead of just driving from spot to spot, you are right in the middle of nature.
From Halsalm, you get an especially beautiful view of Hintersee and into the Ramsau Valley. Hochkalter in particular stands out as a striking peak. In addition, a wide view opens up over the Berchtesgaden mountains—naturally including the Watzmann massif.
8. Bike Tour in and Around Ramsau
Ramsau can be explored not only on foot, but also wonderfully by bike. Especially if you want to combine several places, a bike is a great option. This lets you move flexibly through the valley, stop spontaneously at viewpoints, and still stay active along the way. Many Ramsau tips can be combined in a relaxed way like this. The village, the surrounding area, and individual natural attractions feel even more immediate when seen from a bike.
Depending on the route, you can enjoy a leisurely ride or put together a more athletic loop with greater elevation gain. What is especially nice is that you are constantly surrounded by that typical mix of mountain views, green meadows, and clear air. Anyone traveling with children should choose the route accordingly—then a bike tour around Ramsau can also be truly lovely. For us, this is one of the best ways to experience the region not just selectively but as a whole.
Do you have any more recommendations for Ramsau things to do or was one of these places your personal highlight? Feel free to write to us in the comments.
