Scharten Hut

The Scharten Hütte sits at 1,504m in the Berchtesgaden Alps, above the Königssee valley. Reach it from Schönau am Königssee in 2.5 to 3 hours on foot. The approach climbs steadily through beech forest on a well-marked trail. In winter, snow often blocks access. Mountain bikers can ride partway, but the final section requires hiking. The hut works well as a base for day walks in the limestone peaks around it or as a waypoint on longer ridge traverses.
The hut offers 30 beds in simple dorm rooms and a handful of double rooms. Meals are hearty and reliable—expect Bavarian staples and vegetarian options. The DAV (Deutscher Alpenverein) maintains it. Water comes from a spring. There is no shower, but washbasins are available. The hut usually opens from June through October, depending on snow melt and staffing. Check before heading up in late autumn.
Book 3 to 4 months ahead for July and August. The hut fills on weekends year-round. You can reserve by phone or email through their website. Arrive early if you turn up without a booking—space may exist, but do not count on it.