Top 12 Castles around Gundershofen
Best castles around Gundershoffen are found in the surrounding region of Alsace, France, which boasts a rich history. These historical sites offer a glimpse into medieval life and provide picturesque views. The area features a variety of castle ruins and well-preserved complexes.
Best castles around Gundershoffen
- The most popular castles is Wasenbourg Castle, a historical site that is a medieval rock castle ruin with a storied past. Its outer walls still stand, offering panoramic views, and it features an exceptional gothic opening.
- Another must-see spot is Schoeneck Castle, a castle complex. It is well-preserved and provides detailed insight into late medieval life and fortifications, with illustrations from various phases of its destruction.
- Visitors also love New Windstein Castle, a castle ruin offering magnificent views. Visitors can climb inside the castle via newly installed metal stairs.
- Gundershoffen is known for medieval rock castle ruins and well-preserved castle complexes. The region offers a mix of accessible ruins and restored sites to see and explore.
- The castles around Gundershoffen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 photos and over 400 upvotes.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Wasenbourg Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Information about the castle:
burgenwelt.org/frankreich/wasen/object.php
A tour of the Chateau de Wasenbourg should be combined with a visit to one or more of the following castle ruins:
Chateau Schoeneck and Wineck
Chateau Hohenfels (Dambacher Castle)
Wachtfelsen and Klein-Arnsberg ruins
Alt-Windstein and Neu-Windstein ruins
Luetzelhardt ruins
This way you can easily visit several castle ruins in one day.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Old Windstein Castle
Highlight • Castle
The southern complex, also called the front castle, towers over a vertical cliff about 20 meters high, which is no longer accessible today. The front part cannot be visited. The rear castle is only suitable for experienced climbers and can only be visited by them.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Schoeneck Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
New Windstein Castle
Highlight • Castle
You can climb up the castle's interior via newly installed metal stairs. However, if you're afraid of heights, don't look down... the floors are made of metal gratings, so you can see through them.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château du Wineck
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Gundershofen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Here the upper castle could only be reached via a long ladder or a spectacular climb: the entrance is at a height of about 15 m.
0
0
The Wasenburg was built in 1280 by Konrad von Lichtenberg on a castle site dating back to the 8th century. The castle was damaged in the Peasants' War and was almost destroyed by French troops in 1677. The huge nine-part magnificent window with seven rosettes is remarkable - a work of art that the stonemasons carved out of a single piece of sandstone. It is probably the most beautiful castle window of all Alsatian castles. The mighty shield wall, a bay window and the fireplace in the palace are also well preserved. A memorial plaque commemorates Goethe's visit in 1770, who came up here because of the magnificent window and the excellent view from the spa town of Niederbronn-les-Bains.
2
1
Unfortunately, only a few remains of the wall remain. The other two castles offer much more.
2
0
The Wasenburg (French Château du Wasenbourg) is the ruin of a medieval rock castle in Alsace. The castle stands on a 432 meter high northern foothills of the Reisberg above Niederbronn-les-Bains and the Falkensteinerbachtal, an important connection between Bitche and the Upper Rhine Plain. Nothing is known about the founding of the castle. The castle of Duke Luitfried may have stood here as early as 730. The first reports are from 1280, when Konrad von Lichtenberg expanded the (probably already existing) castle. Source: Wikipedia.
0
0
After about an hour you reach the Wasenburg ruins from Niederbronn-les-Bains. Nice view over the plain.
1
0
well preserved ruins. Known for the visit of Goethe
1
1
Essentially, only part of the tower remains of the ruins, and you can't even enter the ruins. Still, it's a nice little ruin to include in your plans. It's easy to combine with the larger ruins of Schöneck and Windeck, or even the Maginot Line.
1
0
The ruins are beautiful. There are even a few pictures and a small "exhibition" about the finds that were made here. Restorations are in full swing, but you can still visit everything. The most beautiful thing is when you dare to go all the way to the top.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Gundershoffen?
The region around Gundershoffen offers a mix of medieval rock castle ruins and well-preserved castle complexes. You can find sites like Wasenbourg Castle, which is a ruin with impressive standing outer walls, and Schoeneck Castle, a well-preserved complex offering detailed insights into late medieval life.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views?
For magnificent panoramic views, Wasenbourg Castle is highly recommended, as its outer walls still stand, providing beautiful vistas from the top. New Windstein Castle also offers superb views, and you can climb inside via newly installed metal stairs.
Are there any castles that are particularly family-friendly?
While specific family-friendly amenities vary, castles like New Windstein Castle, with its accessible interior via metal stairs, can be an engaging visit for families. Schoeneck Castle, being well-explained and restored, also provides an educational experience for all ages.
What are some unique historical features of the castles in this area?
Wasenbourg Castle is notable for its exceptional gothic opening with nine small lances and seven oculus, and a memorial plaque commemorating Goethe's visit in 1771. Old Windstein Castle features many chambers and passages carved into the red sandstone, with a passage cave on the ascent.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Gundershoffen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Mercury Rock Temple – Wasenbourg Castle loop' from Reichshoffen. For cycling, options range from easy loops to more challenging routes like the 'Circuit to discover the Vosges du Nord'. You can explore more options in the hiking guide or cycling guide for Gundershoffen.
Is it possible to visit multiple castles in one day?
Yes, many of the castles are relatively close to each other, making it feasible to visit several in a single day. For example, Wasenbourg Castle can be combined with Schoeneck Castle and Château du Wineck. Similarly, the Old Windstein and New Windstein Castles are situated above the village of Windstein and can be explored together.
Are there any castles that are challenging to access or require climbing skills?
Old Windstein Castle has parts that are only suitable for experienced climbers. The southern part, or front castle, is perched on a 20-meter-high vertical cliff and is no longer accessible to the general public. The rear castle also requires climbing skills.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Gundershoffen?
The castles and surrounding natural landscapes are beautiful throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the ruins and enjoying the panoramic views. Winter visits might be possible, but some paths could be slippery, and facilities might have reduced hours.
Are dogs allowed at the castle ruins?
While specific regulations can vary by site, many outdoor historical sites and trails in the Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park generally welcome well-behaved dogs on a leash. It's always advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current rules regarding dog access at individual castle ruins like Wasenbourg or the Windstein castles.
Where can I find parking when visiting these castles?
Most popular castle ruins, such as Wasenbourg Castle and the Windstein castles, typically have designated parking areas nearby, often at the start of the access trails. These are usually well-signposted from the nearest villages. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach these sites.
What should I wear when visiting the castle ruins?
Given that many castles are ruins and involve walking on uneven terrain, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended. Layers of clothing are also advisable, as weather conditions can change, especially when exploring exposed viewpoints. For castles like New Windstein Castle with metal grate floors, those with a fear of heights might prefer closed-toe shoes.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles worth exploring?
While the main castles are popular, Château du Wineck is a smaller ruin that can be a nice addition to your itinerary. Although only part of the tower remains, it offers a quiet historical spot and can easily be combined with visits to larger ruins like Schöneck and Windeck for a comprehensive day out.
Most popular routes around Gundershofen
Most popular attractions around Gundershofen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Gundershofen:
