The Bavarian Castle Administration has released figures showing a remarkable increase of over a third in visitor numbers to King Ludwig II's hunting lodge at Schachen compared to the previous year. Despite its somewhat secluded location, approximately 9,100 visitors trekked up the challenging paths to the lodge, situated at an altitude of 1,866 meters in the Wetterstein mountains. The hiking season is limited from June to early October, yet the new World Heritage designation has seemingly boosted interest significantly for this historically rich location.

German Finance Minister Albert Füracker attributed much of this rise in tourism to the newly acquired UNESCO World Heritage status for the Bavarian castles associated with Ludwig II. This increase indicates a positive impact on regional tourism, showcasing that even remote attractions can draw crowds when positioned as part of a recognized heritage site. The Schloss Schachen specifically, though difficult to access, is witnessing more visitors, aligning with the general trend of seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences within Europe.

While the numbers remain modest in absolute terms compared to other more accessible tourist spots, the uptick reflects a broader trend in travel where people are increasingly drawn to unique and historic sites. The acknowledgment from UNESCO not only enhances the profile of these castles but also contributes to their preservation, as more visitors often lead to increased funding and attention to these cultural landmarks. The success seen at Schachen could encourage further development of infrastructure and access routes to meet the growing interest of heritage tourism in Bavaria and beyond.