Top 20 Castles around Bernhardswald
Castles near Bernhardswald are situated in the Regensburg district of Germany, an area known for its historical sites and natural features. The region features a mix of medieval origins and later architectural styles, including moated castles and classical reconstructions. These structures offer insights into centuries of regional history and are often set within scenic landscapes. The area provides opportunities for exploring historical architecture and surrounding natural environments.
Best castles around Bernhardswald
- The most popular castles is Ruins of Donaustauf Castle…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ruins of Donaustauf Castle
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Brennberg Castle
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You should climb the steps to the watch tower, from there you have a magnificent view of Brennberg and the surrounding area
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Stockenfels Castle Ruins
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Ramspau Castle
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St. Emmeram Palace (Thurn and Taxis Palace)
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Tips from the Community
The castle is gigantic. It is not open to the public. In winter there is a Christmas market with admission.
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Awesome 🔨 view from the castle to Donaustauf and into the distance to the Regensburg Cathedral on one side and on the other side to Walhalla and Scheuchenberg
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The castle park only came into being at the end of the 18th and during the 19th century. The English landscape garden with enclosure was designed by Carl Joseph von Effner from 1872, incorporating the remains of the Emmeram Bastion and the city wall.[Note. 2] The entire area, which was referred to as Emmeramer Breiten, lay directly in front of the city wall, which enclosed the buildings of the castle and the monastery and then followed the course of Petersweg. In front of the city wall on the site of today's castle park there were also other sections of the fortifications. They were cleared under Prince Karl Anselm von Thurn und Taxis in order to plant trees on the site. Later, under Prince Bishop Karl Theodor von Dalberg, the site was sold to Prince Karl Alexander von Thurn und Taxis. His wife Therese zu Mecklenburg had the small garden palace Theresens Ruh built in the eastern section. The classical villa was hit by a bomb at the end of the Second World War. The damaged building was surprisingly completely demolished in 1945. Today the castle park is not freely accessible, but annual events take place in the castle park and in the courtyard of the castle, including a garden show in June, the Thurn and Taxis Castle Festival in July and since 2001 the Christmas market at Thurn and Taxis Castle. Source: Wikipedia
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Ramspau Castle Around 1694, Ramspau Castle and the town that belonged to it came into the possession of Count Johann Siegmund Anton Franz von Reisach, who was the main caretaker of the Kurbavarian market town of Regenstauf. After 1700, he had large parts of the castle removed and used as building material for a new castle in the valley. The palace was built as a two-storey baroque complex with a hipped roof and four round corner towers with octagonal tops, which in turn are surmounted by onion domes. Construction was completed around 1726. In 1803 the barons of Pfetten came into possession, and since 1995 it has belonged to the Count of Ledebur-Wichten. He had the farm buildings renovated in 1999, some of which are now holiday homes. Source: Wikipedia
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Residence of the noble family and the accessible princely museums
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Headquarters of Thurn and Taxis with beautiful outbuildings
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Worth seeing highlight in an excellent area
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Prominent eye-catcher in Regensburg!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Bernhardswald?
The region around Bernhardswald features a diverse range of historical structures, from medieval moated castles to classical-style reconstructions. You can find well-preserved sites, such as the privately owned Schloss Bernhardswald and Schloss Kürn, as well as impressive castle ruins like Ruins of Donaustauf Castle and Brennberg Castle.
Are there any castles near Bernhardswald that offer panoramic views?
Yes, several castles provide excellent viewpoints. For instance, the Ruins of Donaustauf Castle is a popular lookout point with incredible views in good weather. Similarly, climbing the watch tower at Brennberg Castle offers a magnificent panorama of Brennberg and the surrounding area.
Which castles are family-friendly around Bernhardswald?
Many castles in the area are suitable for families. Brennberg Castle is considered family-friendly, and its ruins offer much to discover. The Ruins of Donaustauf Castle are also great for kids and dogs, with many nooks and crannies to explore.
Can I visit Schloss Bernhardswald or Schloss Kürn?
Both Schloss Bernhardswald and Schloss Kürn are privately owned and generally not accessible to the public. Visitors can admire these historical buildings from the outside, offering a glimpse into their rich history and architectural evolution. For more historical context, you can refer to their Wikipedia pages: Schloss Bernhardswald and Schloss Kürn.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Bernhardswald?
Absolutely. The region offers various hiking opportunities that often incorporate castle visits. For example, the Ruins of Donaustauf Castle can be easily integrated into any tour in the area. You can find numerous running and mountain hiking trails around Bernhardswald, including routes like 'Pond at Wenzenbach – Schönberg Castle loop' or 'Hetzenbacher Höhe loop'. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Bernhardswald guide or the Mountain Hikes around Bernhardswald guide.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the castles?
Beyond hiking, the area around Bernhardswald is great for gravel biking. You can find routes that pass by scenic spots and historical sites. For instance, the 'Otterbach Stream – View of the Walhalla loop from Pettenreuth' is a moderate gravel biking route. Check out the Gravel biking around Bernhardswald guide for more details.
Are there any dog-friendly castle trails in the Regensburg district?
Yes, the Ruins of Donaustauf Castle are noted as being great for dogs, allowing you and your canine companion to explore the castle grounds together.
What historical significance do the castles around Bernhardswald hold?
The castles in this region, including Schloss Bernhardswald and Schloss Kürn, have deep historical roots, often dating back to medieval times. They have been owned by various noble families and have undergone reconstructions, such as Schloss Kürn's rebuilding in a Classicist style after an 1825 fire. These structures offer insights into centuries of regional history and architectural evolution.
Where can I find parking when visiting castles like Donaustauf?
The Ruins of Donaustauf Castle are easily reachable by car, and parking is generally available, making it convenient to access the site.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles around Bernhardswald?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and scenic beauty. Many enjoy the panoramic views from castle ruins like Donaustauf and Brennberg. The opportunity to explore mighty ruins hidden in forests, such as Stockenfels Castle Ruins, and discover many nooks and crannies is also a highlight. The komoot community has shared over 2000 photos and given more than 900 upvotes for these sites.
Are there any castles that are well-preserved or still inhabited?
While many castles are ruins, some, like Ramspau Castle, are beautiful baroque castles that are well-maintained. Schloss Bernhardswald and Schloss Kürn are also well-preserved, though privately owned and inhabited, offering a glimpse of historical architecture from the exterior.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in the Regensburg district?
The castles and surrounding natural areas can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the ruins. Winter can also be beautiful, with opportunities for winter hiking near the castles, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check local conditions before your visit.
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