Barmsteine

The Barmsteine are two rock towers, 841 and 851 metres above sea level, in the northernmost part of the Hasel Mountains in the Bavarian Alps. They rise above the Austrian town of Hallein, and lie on the border between Salzburger Land in Austria and Berchtesgadener Land in Germany.GeologyGeologically, the pinnacles have given their name to the so-called Barmstein limestone (Barmsteinkalk), a turbidite sequence which is part of the Oberalm Formation in the Upper Jurassic rock layer.Climbing and walkingBoth rock pinnacles are a popular destination, especially for climbers because they are lit by the sun until late in the evening and are easy to get to. The climbing grade of the Small Barmstein is II to III, the Great Barmstein is significantly harder. In addition to the two large pinnacles there are also the Katzenbarmsteine, on the southern arête of the Small Barmstein. Here there is also a boulder park.The Barmsteine may also be easily climbed using rock steps with railings and several places that are secured by cables. On the Small Barmstein this ascent is on the south side. It should not be attempted by anyone suffering from vertigo. For walkers, the ruins of Thürndl Castle, just a little to the east, are also worth visiting.