18 Castles in the Black Forest of Germany: Discover the Fascinating Hidden Gems
The Black Forest region of Germany (Schwarzwald) is known for its stunning natural beauty, but it's also home to some of the country's most impressive castles. From medieval fortresses to romantic palaces, these 18 hidden gems are sure to capture your imagination and transport you back in time. Read along and explore some of the best castles in the Black Forest of Germany.
1. Burg Hohenzollern (Hohenzollern Castle)
The first castle in the Black Forest we recommend visiting is the Hohenzollern Castle. This is a stunning fortress located on a mountaintop near the town of Hechingen in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle is one of the most iconic and visited castles in the country, with its striking architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s not wonder why this is the most popular of the castles in the Black Forest of Germany.
The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been rebuilt and renovated numerous times over the years. It was once the ancestral seat of the Hohenzollern family, one of the most prominent and influential royal families in German history. Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors to Hohenzollern Castle can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knight's Hall, the Chapel, and the Throne Room. This castle in the Black Forest also features beautiful gardens and grounds, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, this Hohenzollern Castle in the Black Forest hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and cultural events. The castle is also home to a museum, which offers visitors a chance to learn more about the castle's history and the region's culture.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Hohenzollern Castle is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle is a beautiful example of medieval and neo-Gothic architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in the Black Forest of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
2. Burg Hohengeroldseck (Hohengeroldseck Castle)
Burg Hohengeroldseck is a medieval fortress located near the town of Zell am Harmersbach in the Black Forest region of Germany. Built on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding countryside, this Black Forest castle dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and most well-preserved castles in the region.
Originally built by the Counts of Geroldseck, Burg Hohengeroldseck played an important role in the political and military conflicts of the region throughout the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times and was extensively renovated and expanded.
Today, Burg Hohengeroldseck is open to visitors year-round, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of medieval Germany. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knights' Hall, the Chapel of St. Catherine, and the castle's defensive towers and battlements.
This castle in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including medieval festivals, music concerts, and historical reenactments. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Burg Hohengeroldseck is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
3. Burgbach Castle
Burgbach Castle is a beautiful castle located in the town of Löffingen in the Black Forest region of Germany. The Black Forest castle dates back to the 13th century and has a rich history that spans many centuries.
Originally built as a fortress to protect the surrounding area from attacks, Burgbach Castle was later converted into a residential castle in the 15th century. This Black Forest castle was expanded and renovated several times over the centuries, and today it stands as a beautiful example of medieval architecture.
Visitors to Burgbach Castle can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Great Hall, the Knights' Room, and the castle's beautiful chapel. The castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Throughout the year, Burgbach Castle hosts a variety of events and exhibitions, including concerts, art shows, and historical reenactments. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Burgbach Castle is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
Be sure to go on a hike to see the infamous Burgbach Wasserfall! It is located right next to this beautiful castle in the Black Forest.
4. Schloss Eberstein (Now a Hotel!)
Schloss Eberstein is a magnificent castle (converted into a hotel) located in the town of Gernsbach in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has a rich and fascinating history that spans many centuries.
Originally built as a fortress to protect the surrounding area, Schloss Eberstein was later converted into a castle in the 16th century. The castle in the Black Forest was expanded and renovated over the centuries, and today it stands as a beautiful example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Visitors to Schloss Eberstein can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knights' Hall, the Castle Chapel, and the castle's beautiful gardens. This castle in the Schwarzwald also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Black Forest region.
Throughout the year, Schloss Eberstein hosts a variety of events and activities, including concerts, wine tastings, and cultural festivals. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Eberstein is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
This hotel has actually be converted into a fine hotel with a Michelin Star rated restaurant. Learn more about the hotel and the original castle on their website here.
5. Schloss Staufenberg (Staufenberg Castle)
Schloss Staufenberg is a stunning castle located in the town of Durbach in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has a rich history that spans many centuries.
Originally built as a fortress to protect the surrounding area, Schloss Staufenberg was later converted into a castle in the 16th century. This castle in the Black Forest was extensively renovated and expanded over the centuries, and today it stands as a beautiful example of Baroque and Rococo architecture.
Visitors to Schloss Staufenberg can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knights' Hall, the Castle Chapel, and the castle's beautiful gardens. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Black Forest region.
Throughout the year, Schloss Staufenberg hosts a variety of events and activities, including wine tastings, cultural festivals, and live music concerts. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Staufenberg is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events. Plus, there’s wine.
Interested in figuring out how to camp in the Black Forest of Germany? Check out our blog post here!
6. Burg Rötteln (Rötteln Castle)
Burg Rötteln is a picturesque castle located in the town of Lörrach in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has a rich history that spans many centuries.
Originally built as a fortress to protect the surrounding area, Burg Rötteln was later converted into a castle in the 14th century. The castle was extensively renovated and expanded over the centuries, and today it stands as a beautiful example of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
Visitors to Burg Rötteln can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knights' Hall, the Castle Chapel, and the castle's defensive towers and battlements. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Black Forest region.
Throughout the year, Burg Rötteln hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, historical reenactments, and medieval festivals. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Burg Rötteln is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events. We highly recommend visiting this stunning castle in the Black Forest!
7. Burg Baden (Badenweiler Castle)
Burg Baden is a beautiful castle located in the town of Badenweiler in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has a rich history that spans many centuries.
Originally built as a fortress to protect the surrounding area, Burg Baden was later converted into a castle in the 13th century. The castle was extensively renovated and expanded over the centuries, and today it stands as a beautiful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Visitors to Burg Baden can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Great Hall, the Knights' Room, and the castle's beautiful chapel. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Black Forest region.
Throughout the year, Burg Baden hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and cultural events. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Burg Baden is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
8. Schloss Favorite
Schloss Favorite is a stunning castle located in the town of Rastatt in the Black Forest region of Germany. This Black Forest castle was built in the 18th century as a hunting lodge for Margravine Sibylla Augusta of Baden-Baden, and today it stands as a beautiful example of Rococo architecture.
Visitors to Schloss Favorite can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Porcelain Cabinet, the Margravine's Bedroom, and the stunning Ballroom. The castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and a large park, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Schloss Favorite hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, cultural events, and concerts. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Favorite is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
9. Schloss Lichtenstein (Lichtenstein Castle)
Schloss Lichtenstein is a stunning castle located in the Swabian Jura mountain range near the town of Honau in Germany. This Black Forest castle was built in the 19th century by Count Wilhelm von Württemberg and is considered one of the most romantic castles in Germany.
Schloss Lichtenstein is known for its striking appearance, with its towers, turrets, and battlements perched on a rocky cliff. Visitors to the castle can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Great Hall, the Count's Room, and the castle's beautiful chapel. This castle in the Black Forest also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Swabian Jura mountain range.
Throughout the year, Schloss Lichtenstein hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, cultural events, and medieval festivals. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Lichtenstein is a must-see attraction in the Swabian Jura region of Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
10. Schloss Bruchsal (Castle of Bruchsal)
Schloss Bruchsal is a stunning castle located in the town of Bruchsal in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle was built in the 18th century as a residence for the Prince-Bishops of Speyer, and today it stands as a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
Visitors to Schloss Bruchsal can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Grand Staircase, the Prince-Bishops' Apartments, and the castle's beautiful chapel. This castle in the Black Forest also features stunning gardens, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Schloss Bruchsal hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, concerts, and cultural events. One of the most popular events at the castle is the annual Christmas market, which features festive decorations, local crafts, and delicious food and drink.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Bruchsal is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. This Black Forest castle is a true masterpiece of Baroque design and offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Prince-Bishops who once called it home.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
11. Schloss Bürgeln
Schloss Bürgeln is a beautiful castle located in the town of Schliengen in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle was built in the 13th century as a fortress to protect the surrounding area, and over the centuries it was expanded and renovated into a beautiful castle.
Visitors to Schloss Bürgeln can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knights' Hall, the Chapel, and the castle's beautiful courtyard. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the Black Forest region.
Throughout the year, Schloss Bürgeln hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and cultural events. For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Bürgeln is a must-see attraction in the Black Forest region of Germany. The castle is a testament to the region's rich history and culture and offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
12. Schloss Karlsruhe (Karlsruhe Palace)
Schloss Karlsruhe is a beautiful palace located in the city of Karlsruhe in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The palace was built in the 18th century as a residence for the Margraves of Baden and today it is the seat of the state government of Baden-Württemberg.
Visitors to Schloss Karlsruhe can explore the palace's many rooms and halls, including the Grand Staircase, the Marble Hall, and the Margrave's Apartments. The palace also features a beautiful park with gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
Throughout the year, Schloss Karlsruhe hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, art exhibitions, and cultural events. The palace is also home to several museums, including the Baden State Museum and the Museum of Natural History.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Karlsruhe is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The palace is a beautiful example of Baroque and Rococo architecture and is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
13. Schloss Salem (Salem Castle)
Schloss Salem is a beautiful castle located in the town of Salem in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle was originally built in the 12th century as a monastery, but in the 18th century it was converted into a palace by the Margraves of Baden.
Visitors to Schloss Salem can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Grand Staircase, the Throne Room, and the castle's beautiful chapel. The castle also features stunning gardens, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Schloss Salem hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, concerts, and cultural events. This castle in the Black Forest is also home to Salem International College, a prestigious international school.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Salem is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle is a beautiful example of Baroque and Rococo architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Margraves of Baden who once called it home.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
14. Schloss Solitude (Castle Solitude)
Schloss Solitude is a stunning palace located on the outskirts of Stuttgart in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The palace was built in the 18th century as a hunting lodge and summer residence for Duke Carl Eugen of Württemberg.
Visitors to Schloss Solitude can explore the palace's many rooms and halls, including the Marble Hall, the Blue Salon, and the Duke's Apartments. The palace also features beautiful gardens, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Schloss Solitude hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, concerts, and cultural events. The palace is also home to the Academy of Fine Arts, which was founded by Duke Carl Eugen in the 18th century.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Solitude is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The palace is a beautiful example of Rococo architecture and is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. It offers visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of the Württemberg dukes who once called it home.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
15. Schloss Weitenburg (Castle Weitenburg)
Schloss Weitenburg is a picturesque castle located in the town of Starzach in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the region from invaders.
Visitors to Schloss Weitenburg can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knight's Hall, the Chapel, and the Castle Tower. The castle also features beautiful gardens and grounds, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Schloss Weitenburg hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and culinary events. This castle in the Black Forest is also home to a hotel and restaurant, which offer visitors a chance to stay overnight and dine in the castle's elegant surroundings.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Schloss Weitenburg is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Germany.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
16. Kastelburg
Kastelburg is a charming castle located in the town of Waldkirch in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the region from invaders.
Visitors to Kastelburg can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knight's Hall, the Dungeon, and the Watchtower. This castle in the Black Forest also features stunning views of the surrounding countryside, which visitors can enjoy from the castle's rooftop terrace.
Throughout the year, Kastelburg hosts a variety of events and activities, including medieval festivals, concerts, and cultural events. The castle is also home to a restaurant, which offers visitors a chance to dine in the castle's historic surroundings.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Kastelburg is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Germany.
17. Ruine Hochburg (Hochburg bei Emmendingen)
Ruine Hochburg, also known as High Fortress, is a beautiful ruined castle located in the town of Emmendingen in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was originally built as a fortress to protect the region from invaders.
Visitors to Ruine Hochburg can explore the castle's ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle's courtyard, tower, and walls have all been partially restored, providing visitors with a glimpse into the castle's original architecture.
Throughout the year, Ruine Hochburg hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and cultural events. The castle is also home to a restaurant, which offers visitors a chance to dine in the castle's historic surroundings.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Ruine Hochburg is a must-see attraction in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Germany.
For more information, visit our dedicated article on the Hochburg Castle here to learn everything you need to know!
18. Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg (Hohkönigsburg)
OK OK, this last castle is technically NOT in the Black Forest… but it’s so close and certainly worth a trip over the Rhine Valley in France to visit. I have been multiple times, and it certainly does not disappoint.
Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, also known as the High Königsbourg Castle, is a stunning fortress located in the Alsace region of France. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was originally built as a strategic fortress to protect the region.
Visitors to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Knight's Hall, the Chapel, and the Castle Tower. The castle also features beautiful gardens and grounds, which visitors can stroll through and enjoy.
Throughout the year, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg hosts a variety of events and activities, including guided tours, medieval festivals, and cultural events. The castle is also home to a museum, which offers visitors a chance to learn more about the castle's history and the region's culture.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a must-see attraction in the Alsace region of France. The castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in France.
To review and plan a trip, go to their website here to learn more and look for any upcoming events.
Conclusion
Germany and Europe in general are loaded with castles. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of castles in the Black Forest, as there are many other castles and fortresses in the region that are worth exploring.
The Black Forest of Germany not only provides stunning landscapes with a seemingly limitless number of things to do, but also has countless different castles, ruins and fortresses to explore (often for free.) We highly recommend to give them a visit!
