Where was Where Eagles Dare filmed?
1968
City Locations
Werfen (Austria), Lofer (Austria), Ebensee (Austria), Hertfordshire (UK)
Location Types
Film Studio, Hotel, Unique, Unusual, Castles
Location Styles
Foreign, 40's, Mid-Century Modern, Classic Car, Mountain Huts, Castle/Chateau
About Where Eagles Dare
"Where Eagles Dare" is a captivating British-American war thriller film that debuted in 1968. Directed by Brian G. Hutton, the movie features two of the biggest stars of the era, Richard Burton and Clint Eastwood, in leading roles. The narrative is set during World War II and revolves around a daring mission to rescue an American brigadier general named George Carnaby, held captive in a formidable castle fort.
In this thrilling plot, Burton and Eastwood portray Allied agents who parachute into an Austrian town under the guise of Nazis. Their mission is to infiltrate a Nazi stronghold situated in the Bavarian Alps and free the imprisoned general. As the story unfolds, the audience is kept on the edge of their seats with the film's twisty plot, intense action sequences, and stunning performances.
The film stands out for its realistic portrayal of the war era. The Schloss Adler, the castle where the general is held captive, is a real castle, and the Alpine village and cable car featured in the film are also real. This authenticity adds a layer of immersion to the viewing experience, making "Where Eagles Dare" a truly memorable film.
Where Eagles Dare Locations
"Where Eagles Dare" is a classic war film that utilized the breathtaking landscapes of Austria and Bavaria for its production. The majority of scenes were shot in various locations across these regions, providing a dramatic and authentic backdrop for the thrilling narrative.
The Schloss Adler, a fortress nestled atop a mountain, serves as the film's most iconic setting, where the soldiers embark on their daring raid. This was actually filmed at the Burg Hohenwerfen Castle in Werfen, Austria. Towering over the Salzach valley, the castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine peaks, creating an imposing atmosphere perfect for the film's suspenseful plot.
Another key location in the movie is the Flugplatz at Aigen im Ennstal, Austria; the airport scenes were filmed here in early 1968 at the Fiala-Fernbrugg garrison. The quaint Austrian village of Werfen also features prominently, with its picturesque houses and peaceful streets contrasting sharply with the intense action of the film.
A trip to these filming locations would undoubtedly be worthwhile for fans of the film and history enthusiasts alike. Not only do these places offer a firsthand glimpse into the world of "Where Eagles Dare", but they also provide an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Austria and Bavaria.
In Schloss Adler scene in Where Eagles Dare
Burg Hohenwerfen, Burgstraße 2, 5450 Werfen, Austria
During the winter months of 1943-44, a group of seven commandos from the Allied Special Operations Executive embarked on a critical mission. Led by Major John Smith (Richard Burton) from the British Royal Engineers and including Lieutenant Morris Schaffer (Clint Eastwood) from the U.S. Army Rangers, their objective was to rescue U.S. Army Brigadier General George Carnaby (Robert Beatty), a key strategist for the Western Front. Captured by German forces after his plane was downed, Carnaby was held prisoner in Schloß Adler, a fortress atop a mountain in Werfen. Accessing the stronghold required navigating a cable car, adding complexity to their mission.
Burg Hohenwerfen, also known as Hohenwerfen Castle, stands majestically on a precipice 623 meters above the charming Austrian town of Werfen. This medieval fortress boasts a captivating blend of adventure and culture, steeped in over 900 years of history. Offering awe-inspiring views of the Salzach River Valley, it is a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and historical significance.
To reach Burg Hohenwerfen, a charming medieval castle in the Austrian Alps, you have several options. The most convenient route is from Salzburg, which offers train and bus connections. From Salzburg Hbf, you can take a train to Werfen, a journey that takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Another option is to take the Line 170 bus. Once you arrive in Werfen, it's a short walk to the castle along Burgstrasse, an access road that leads to the lower gate. If you prefer driving, there's easy highway access from Salzburg.
Explore Filming Locations
Smith meeting with Schmidt scene in Where Eagles Dare
The Villa Egger, Lofer 16, 5090 Lofer, Austria
Major Smith (Richard Burton) meets up with Heidi Schmidt (Ingrid Pitt), who is undercover as a barmaid; Heidi has been their top agent in the area since 1941. The buxom and trusty Heidi plays a crucial role in their mission, providing them with valuable information and assistance.
The Villa Egger in Lofer, Austria, is a charming bed and breakfast offering cozy accommodations. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Alpine scenery, it offers guests an ideal base for exploring the Salzburg region. The Villa features traditionally furnished rooms, a hearty breakfast, and personalized service. Notably, it's close to the ski lift and hiking trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Villa Egger is located in the pedestrian-friendly village of Lofer, approximately a 35-40 minute drive from Salzburg Airport. It's also about a 42-minute taxi ride from W. A. Mozart Airport. The inn is conveniently situated right in the center of Lofer, just 150 meters from the Loferer Almbahn Cable Car. For precise directions, it's best to use an online map or navigation system.
Search Video Shoot Locations
Smith meeting with Schmidt scene in Where Eagles Dare
Feuerkogel cable car Ebensee, Rudolf Ippischpl. 4, 4802 Ebensee, Austria
Smith (Richard Burton) and Schaffer (Clint Eastwood) flee in a cable car, leading to a tense and action-packed sequence that is visually impressive. This scene is particularly memorable due to the high stakes and the clever tactics used by the characters to outwit their captors.
The Feuerkogel cable car in Ebensee, Austria, offers an unforgettable journey to the scenic Feuerkogel Plateau. Known as the "sunniest mountain in Salzkammergut", it provides panoramic views of the Dachstein Massif and the surrounding lakes. The cable car operates year-round, serving hikers in summer and skiers in winter. At the top, visitors can enjoy family-friendly hiking trails, ski slopes, and traditional mountain huts serving local cuisine.
To reach the Feuerkogel cable car in Ebensee, you have multiple options. If you're driving, there's plenty of free parking directly at the base station of the cable car. Alternatively, you can travel by train to Ebensee in the Traunsee holiday region and then take the Traunsee taxi from the train stop "Ebensee Landungsplatz Bahnhof" to the valley station of the Feuerkogel cable car. Please note that the only way to reach the Feuerkogel is by cable car.
Scout Film Shoot Locations
Alpine bus escape scene in Where Eagles Dare
MGM British Studios, Lupa House, York Way, Borehamwood WD6 1PX, UK
And let's not forget the daring escape with a snowplow-equipped bus full of machine guns. The entire operation, masterminded by Admiral Rolland (Michael Hordern) and Smith (Richard Burton), demonstrates strategic genius and audacity, making it a standout moment in the film.
MGM British Studios was a subsidiary of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, established at Denham Film Studios in 1936. The studio was based in Borehamwood, England — known as one of the "Elstree Studios" sites — and was the largest site in the UK at the time. The historic studio played a significant role in film production from 1948-1970, producing several critically acclaimed films. However, the studio closed in 1970 and amalgamated with EMI.
To get to Lupa House, York Way, Borehamwood, you have multiple options. If you're driving, you can use a GPS or online map service for the most direct route from your current location. Its address is: Lupa House, York Way, Borehamwood, WD6 1PX, United Kingdom.
For public transportation, you can check local bus and train schedules. Borehamwood is served by Elstree & Borehamwood railway station on the Thameslink route. From there, you may need to take a taxi or a local bus to reach York Way.
Railway station scene in Where Eagles Dare
Werfen Train Station, 5450 Pfarrwerfen, Austria
In this scene, the characters, disguised as Wehrmacht mountain troops, have just parachuted into the German Alps. They arrive at the station and strip off their snow smocks to reveal German uniforms underneath. This is part of their plan to infiltrate the castle and rescue their captured ally. Adding to the tension, Smith (Richard Burton) and Schaffer (Clint Eastwood) later cause a diversion by setting fire to the train station, a daring move that allows them to travel to the Schloss Adler via the roof of a cable car.
Werfen Train Station, located in Werfen, Austria, offers regular services and connections to various locations, including Salzburg. With amenities and information readily available, it provides easy access to local attractions like the Werfen Ice Caves. Travelers appreciate the scenic journey along the Salzach River through the mountains, making it a convenient and enjoyable travel option.
To get to Werfen Train Station from Salzburg, you can take a direct train which takes approximately 31 minutes and costs around €9. Trains depart from Hauptbahnhof Salzburg, the main train station in Salzburg. If you're already in Werfen and close to Pfarrwerfen Bahnhof, it's a 20-minute walk to Werfen Train Station. The station is conveniently located for those wishing to visit local attractions such as the Werfen Ice Caves and Hohenwerfen Castle.
Uncover Production Spaces
Conclusion
"Where Eagles Dare" is an engaging, adrenaline-fueled World War II espionage thriller, both in its original book form by Alistair MacLean and its subsequent film adaptation. The story revolves around Major John Smith and his team of allied agents who undertake a seemingly impossible mission to rescue an American general from a nearly impenetrable castle nestled in the snowy peaks of the German Alps.
Filmed primarily in Austria, the movie captures the chilling beauty of the alpine landscape, adding a layer of authenticity to the high-stakes plot. The narrative concludes with a surprising twist, revealing that the "general" they are rescuing is, in fact, an actor. His rescue is a ruse designed to expose top German agents.
In conclusion, "Where Eagles Dare" offers a captivating blend of suspense, action, and wartime intrigue, set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Its enduring appeal testifies to its status as a classic in the war film genre.