Description

Hiking and climbing tour from Rottach-Egern (736 meters AMSL) to Plankenstein (or Blankenstein, 1768 meters AMSL) via Altes Wallberghaus (a hotel on 1512 meters AMSL).

Plankenstein is a conspicuous peak in the Bavarian Prealps (Mangfallgebirge), Germany. I am illustrating the “Normalweg” here. For genuine climbers it is certainly more appealing to scale the peak on one of the actual climbing routes.

Photos and Video

December 2025

May 2025

Map, Topography

Notes and recommendations

The starting point lies at the Plankensteinsattel: even the easiest route (said “Normalweg”) involves some tricky climbing (UIAA scale II – III). There are two sections called “Rinne” (gully), one close to the starting point, and one at the very end leading straightly to the summit cross.

The more demanding latter gully can be eluded by climbing an easier short section across exposed rocks, as shown in the video. It might be the more difficult one in terms of a mental challenge for people who are afraid of heights.

I recommend wearing a helmet, especially when there are other people around.