Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Castles
Germany
Baden-Württemberg
Freiburg District

Landkreis Emmendingen

Top 20 Castles around Landkreis Emmendingen

Best castles around Landkreis Emmendingen offer a journey through centuries of history in the Upper Rhine Valley. This region in Baden-Württemberg features a diverse landscape, from river plains to the foothills of the Black Forest, providing strategic locations for historical fortifications. The area is characterized by its rich heritage, with numerous castle ruins and preserved structures dotting the scenic terrain.

Best castles around Landkreis Emmendingen

  • The most popular castles is Kastelburg Castle Ruins, a castle that offers views of…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Kastelburg Castle Ruins

Highlight • Castle

Very nice view of Waldkirch and the surrounding area. The history of the castle is very interesting. At the entrance there is an information board with an overview of its history.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Sponeck Castle

Highlight • Castle

An important fort stood here in the late Roman Empire. It secured the crossing of the Rhine. Today Sponeck Castle is still privately owned and can usually only be visited …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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

Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen)

Highlight • Castle

For a hike, we stayed here long, as much is preserved and to visit. We recommend! Regular events.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Lichteneck Castle

Highlight • Castle

Unfortunately, this castle is only open for viewing after prior notification, so that we can only take a look through the castle gate.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Keppenbach Castle Ruins

Highlight • Castle

A very nice ruin

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Landeck Castle Ruins

Highlight • Castle

A very nice ruin

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Ruins of Kirnburg Castle

Highlight • Castle

The ruins of the Kirnburg are located at 382 m above sea level on the mountain of the same name (Kurinberc since 1219) above Bleichheim above the confluence of the …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Zur Limburg Inn

Highlight • Restaurant

First rest stop after the border from France. Beautiful large beer garden with selfservice in summer. Prices ok.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Great little church ruin, now with plenty of benches for a picnic.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Burg Limberg Ruins

Highlight • Castle

Nice little facility. Ideal for resting. The view is nice.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Landkreis Emmendingen.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Landkreis Emmendingen

Rheinauenweg hiking path – Jungle tour for water rats

Rottweil–Lahr Black Forest Trail – Hike between forests and meadows

Follow the sun – riding from Germany to the south of France

ZweiTälerSteig – 5 stages hiking to discover Germany's Black Forest

Hike the WasserWeltenSteig – Waterfalls, lakes and rivers of the Black Forest

Germany's Kandelhöhenweg — More westerly than the Westweg

Two valleys, endless views – hiking in the ZweiTälerLand

Far from the hustle and bustle – Hidden Trails in the Black Forest

Hiking the Süden – between Black Forest, Lake Constance and Swabian Alb

Picnics, wine and wide views – along the Baden Wine Route

Other adventures around Landkreis Emmendingen

Rheinauenweg hiking path – Jungle tour for water rats

Hiking Collection by

Michi Querweg

Tips from the Community

Günter L.S.
October 2, 2025, Burg Sponeck

The first lord of the castle was Hildebrand Spenlin from Breisach. The word "Spenlin" means "little shavings" (from a plane). In Alemannic usage, Spenlin is called "Spänle." Without the diminutive, Span = Spon. The castle is mentioned in documents as Spenlins Eck, Span-Egge, or the Sponeck.

Translated by Google

10

0

France is just across the Rhine. The Vosges Mountains can be clearly seen in the background if visibility is good enough.

Translated by Google

1

0

The St. Severin ruins are located on the eastern slope of the Mauracher Mountain, an elevation in the municipality of Denzlingen in northern Breisgau. One of Denzlingen's first places of worship was probably located here 1,000 years ago. The ruin bears the year 1497 on the Gothic door arch. Already in the Middle Ages one often heard the name of the "eclesia in Muron" or "eclesia in Gloter", church in Maurach" or in the parish of Glotter. However, the patronage was first mentioned in 1488, when the church of St. Serverin was called "S. Severini in Murach" is mentioned in writing. A relief plate made of red sandstone, which depicts St. Severin as a bishop and was found within the church ruins, is now in the Catholic Jakobuskirche in Denzlingen. Until the Reformation, pilgrimages took place regularly on the Mauracher Mountain. The Reformation, which was carried out in the towns of the Margraves of Baden in 1556, ended the pilgrimages and processions. 1575 It is mentioned that the margrave, after accepting the change of religion, banned pilgrimages to the chapel on the Mauracherberg and closed the little church. However, this probably did not stop many believers from continuing to pray in St. Severin, as the inscriptions on the relief panel from 1771 show. Today only a very dilapidated ruin remains of the old pilgrimage center on the Mauracher Berg, which was once the mother church of the Glottertal. https://www.alemannische-seiten.de/deutschland/denzlingen_st-severin-denzlingen.php

Translated by Google

3

0

Landeck Castle, also called Schadelandeck, is the ruin of a spur castle at 285 m above sea level. NN on a limestone rock in the village of the same name, Landeck, a district of Teningen, north of the town of Emmendingen in the Emmendingen district in Baden-Württemberg. The ruin is one of the few well-preserved ruins in the Breisgau. The time of origin of the upper and lower castle can be dated to around 1269. In 1260, "Dietrich, the Vogt von Landecke", a follower of the lords of Geroldseck, was mentioned in a document.

Translated by Google

1

0

Nice little facility. Ideal for resting. The view is nice.

Translated by Google

1

0

The settlement of the landscape in Freiamt has probably in the 11./12. Century during the great clearing epoch of the Black Forest. Even then, people knew that there could be silver ore veins between the rocks in the federal sandstone in the Brettenbach valley. So the Zähringer dukes took favorable land and pushed out the smaller nobility who were busy with the clearing. The Zähringers appointed a able subject a knight of Keppenbach and ordered him to build a castle to protect the silver ore mines. This finally reaches a length of 200 meters and a width of 35 meters. However, the yield of silver was lower than hoped. Mining was abandoned around 1800 at the latest. The first written mention of the Knights of Keppenbach was in 1161. Hartmut von Keppenbach is listed as a witness in a purchase deed from Tennebach. Since the age of the castle is not known, it can be concluded that Keppenbach Castle already existed at this time. You can find more information about Bur Keppenbach on my homepage: https://www.breisgau-burgen.de/de/index.php/breisgau-burgen/burgen-a-h/burgen-f/freiamt-burg-keppenbach

Translated by Google

0

0

The ruins of St. Severin's Chapel are located on the eastern spur of the Mauracher Berg. It was built in 1497 by the St. Margarethen von Waldkirch monastery. Excavations by the University of Freiburg in recent years have not only documented the foundations of an older church, but also a large number of burials. The evaluation of the written sources has shown that the church was probably the Glottertal parish church until 1466. Only then did the Blasius chapel there receive full parish rights. The dating of the wall and ditch fortifications found on the Mauracher Berg is still open. An origin in prehistory is just as conceivable as an origin in the Middle Ages. But it is also possible to reuse an older fortification in the Middle Ages. For this reason, it cannot yet be said with certainty that there is a castle on the Mauracher Berg. More information on my website: https://www.breisgau-burgen.de/de/index.php/breisgau-burgen/kloester-a-z/denzlingen-ruine-der-st-severinskapelle

Translated by Google

2

0

Limberg Castle is a historic castle complex in the district of Emmendingen in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as a residence and defensive structure. The castle was owned by various noble families, including the Lords of Habsburg, those of Wartenberg and the Margraves of Baden. The castle complex consists of a keep, a palace, a gatehouse and a curtain wall. The keep is the oldest building in the complex and dates back to the 12th century. The Palas was built in the 15th century and served as a residence. The gatehouse was added in the 16th century and is decorated with a relief of the Baden coat of arms. Limberg Castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The last destruction took place in the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century. The castle remained a ruin until the 19th century and was only restored in the 20th century. Today, Limberg Castle is an important historical monument and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can tour the castle and experience the history and architecture of the complex up close. Overall, Limberg Castle is an important testimony to the history and architecture of the Emmendingen region. It is an important part of cultural heritage and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Translated by Google

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

Which castles offer the best panoramic views in Landkreis Emmendingen?

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen), which provide spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys and the highest peaks of the Black Forest. The Kastelburg Castle Ruins also offer magnificent views over Waldkirch and the local mountain, Kandel. Additionally, the Ruins of Kirnburg Castle provide a great view over the Rhine plain to the Vosges.

Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Landkreis Emmendingen?

Yes, several castles are suitable for families. The Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) are a very large and largely accessible complex, often hosting regular events that can be engaging for all ages. The Kastelburg Castle Ruins are reached via a themed 'Ritterweg' (Knight's Path) with knight statues, making the hike up an adventure for children. The Ruins of Kirnburg Castle are also considered family-friendly.

What kind of historical insights can I gain from visiting the castles in this region?

The castles in Landkreis Emmendingen offer a deep dive into centuries of history. The Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen), for instance, showcase the evolution of military architecture from the 12th to the 17th century, with structures from various periods. The Kastelburg Castle Ruins, built in the 13th century, provide insight into medieval defense strategies and the region's trade routes. Exploring these sites reveals the strategic importance of the Upper Rhine Valley throughout history.

Are there hiking trails that lead to the castles?

Many castles in Landkreis Emmendingen are integrated into scenic hiking routes. For example, a themed path called 'Ritterweg' (Knight's Path) leads up to the Kastelburg Castle Ruins. You can find various hiking options, including moderate and easy trails, around the region. Explore more routes in the Hiking around Landkreis Emmendingen guide.

What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Landkreis Emmendingen?

The castles are generally accessible year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the ruins and hiking the surrounding trails, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer provides longer daylight hours and opportunities for events at sites like the Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen), though it can be warmer. Winter visits can be atmospheric, especially for those interested in quieter hikes.

Can I find food and drink options near the castle ruins?

Yes, some castle sites offer amenities. The Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) often have a small kiosk for refreshments on weekends. The Landeck Castle Ruins even feature a restaurant. Additionally, nearby towns like Waldkirch and Emmendingen offer various gastronomic options.

Are there any unique or lesser-known castle ruins worth visiting?

Beyond the prominent sites, the Keppenbach Castle Ruins are a beautiful, lesser-known spot with a peaceful resting place. The Burg Limberg Ruins also offer historical interest. For a different experience, Sponeck Castle, while privately owned, has a garden with art and remains of a Roman fort that are always accessible.

What kind of events are held at the castles?

The Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) are known for hosting regular events. These can range from historical re-enactments and cultural festivals to markets and open-air performances, especially during the warmer months. It's advisable to check local event calendars for specific dates and details.

Are there cycling routes near the castles in Landkreis Emmendingen?

Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes that pass by or near some of the castles, allowing you to combine historical exploration with a bike tour. For more details on cycling paths, refer to the Cycling around Landkreis Emmendingen guide.

How accessible are the castles by public transport?

While some castles are more easily reached by car, public transport options exist for getting to the vicinity of certain sites. For example, the Kastelburg Castle Ruins are located above Waldkirch, which is accessible by public transport, followed by a hike. For specific details on reaching individual castles, it's best to consult local transport schedules.

What is the difference between a castle and a castle ruin in this region?

In Landkreis Emmendingen, you'll primarily find castle ruins, which are the remains of former castles that have fallen into disrepair, often due to destruction or abandonment. These ruins, like Hochburg or Kastelburg, still offer significant architectural elements and historical context. While the Markgrafenschloss Emmendingen is a preserved Renaissance castle, most sites are ruins, providing a romantic and evocative glimpse into the past.

Most popular routes around Landkreis Emmendingen

Hiking around Landkreis Emmendingen

Most popular attractions around Landkreis Emmendingen

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Explore Landkreis Emmendingen’s best castles region by region:

ReuteTeningenWaldkirchSimonswaldGutach im BreisgauHerbolzheimFreiamtBahlingenRiegelBiederbachWyhlElzachDenzlingenKenzingenVörstettenSasbach am KaiserstuhlMalterdingenWinden im ElztalSexauRheinhausenWeisweil

Explore more

Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Landkreis Emmendingen:

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Freiamt

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy