The castles of Alsace: discover the region's historic fortresses and palaces

Have you chosen Alsace for a romantic weekend or a family vacation? Prepare to travel back in time, as the region is renowned for its numerous medieval castles. Perched on pink sandstone peaks, the true fortresses that dominate the Alsatian landscape will surprise young and old. Here is our selection of Alsace castles not to be missed during your visit to Strasbourg or Colmar.

Fleckenstein Castle

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This castle, built in the 12th century, is one of the most visited in Alsace. And for good reason! It is located in the heart of the largest forest in Europe. Its location is ideal for admiring the Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park and the Palatinate Forest. Its particularity? It is perched high on an impressive pink sandstone rock. The view is breathtaking!

Naturally, there are also numerous hiking trails and walks around the castle. Enough to attract young and old adventurers alike. Be careful, don't expect a perfectly preserved castle. It's more of a ruin. But they are very well laid out and, believe us, they are worth a look!

Hohlandsbourg Castle

Located not far from Colmar, at an altitude of 620 meters, it offers a 360° view of the Alsace Plain and the Black Forest. This former fortress is now a leisure spot offering many activities! What we particularly appreciate: the events that take place there. The castle staff never miss an opportunity to entertain visitors. Riddles, shows, photo contests, or even makeup workshops... Don't hesitate to check the dates of animations at the castle. Your children will be delighted!

Cultural development work has transformed this historic site into a true place of life. You will find an exhibition hall, an educational space, a brewery, an open-air theater and even a reception room.

Lichtenberg Castle

Explore more than 800 years of history and discover the impressive architectural evolution of this castle. It has indeed changed a lot over the centuries! And each era has left its mark... Interactive modules allow visitors, young and old, to play at being apprentice architects! Again, the landscape is also worth the trip. Lichtenberg Castle peaks at more than 400 meters above sea level, offering a beautiful view of the Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park.

It has also become a place of theatrical representation. Each year, the Lichtenberg Theater presents plays in French, German... and Alsatian! Finally, several exhibitions are to be discovered during your visit.

Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

Located 26 km north of Colmar, this fortified castle built in the 12th century also has all the advantages of a fortress! Starting with its altitude: 757 meters. Suffice to say that it is visible from afar! If this strategic position made it easy to defend in the past, today it mainly offers an exceptional panorama of the Alsace plain, the Vosges, the Black Forest, and even the Alps in clear weather. And then, there are also its spiral staircases, its weapons room and its cannons, as well as its keep and a drawbridge.

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By discovering this castle, you will understand why it is the favorite of the Alsatians! It is also the most emblematic fortified castle in the region. Indeed, it has been completely restored. Never has such a building been rebuilt with such meticulousness. A true museum of the Middle Ages, it offers thematic and theatrical visits. Moreover, the unique atmosphere and beauty of the place have inspired several films. In late 1930, it formed the backdrop for a classic of cinema: La Grande Illusion. And more recently, it inspired the citadel of Minas Tirith in The Lord of the Rings or Howl's Moving Castle by H. Miyazaki.

The ruins of Kaysersberg Castle

This 13th-century imperial castle invites you to discover one of the oldest round keeps in Alsace, whose walls are more than 4 meters thick. Take its 122-step staircase to reach the top! From there, you will enjoy a beautiful view of Kaysersberg. Also, be sure to take a walk there. Kaysersberg is a magnificent small medieval town, typically Alsatian with its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses with colorful facades.

Stay in a comfortable hotel during your visit to the castles of Alsace

You have discovered our selection of unmissable castles in Alsace. But this list is far from exhaustive! In reality, Alsace has nearly 450 castles, more or less well preserved. Not to mention its many hiking trails in the surrounding area! So, do not hesitate to go to the Tourist Office of the city where you plan to stay for advice. And for a good night's sleep after a busy program, book your room in one of our hotels in Alsace.

Free high-speed Wifi, flat-screen TV with a wide selection of channels, all-you-can-eat breakfast, queen-size beds, disabled access... you will find everything you need in our comfortable establishments. Discover the Alsatian heritage alongside B&B HOTELS!