Château de Saint-Ulrich: A Majestic Fortress Overlooking Ribeauvillé
Discover the enchanting Château de Saint-Ulrich, a medieval gem with breathtaking views and rich history in the heart of Alsace.
A brief summary to Château de Saint-Ulrich
- Ribeauvillé, FR
- +33389732323
Perched high above the charming town of Ribeauvillé, the Château de Saint-Ulrich is a captivating medieval fortress that invites visitors to step into the past. As one of the three castles that dominate the skyline of the Alsace region, it offers an impressive panorama of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The castle's architecture reflects its storied history, with well-preserved ruins that echo tales of knights, sieges, and the vibrant life of the Middle Ages. Visitors can wander through the castle grounds, exploring the remnants of its towers and walls while basking in the stunning vistas that unfold in every direction. The ascent to the castle itself is a hike through lush forests, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Once at the top, the breathtaking views of Ribeauvillé and the Alsatian landscape are nothing short of magical, especially during sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink. While the castle does not offer extensive guided tours or visitor facilities, its charm lies in the opportunity for exploration and discovery at your own pace. Be sure to bring your camera and enjoy a leisurely picnic on the grounds, soaking in the history and beauty that the Château de Saint-Ulrich has to offer. This castle is not just a tourist attraction; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the region and a must-visit for anyone traveling through Alsace.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike up to the castle.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the castle with stunning views as your backdrop.
- Consider combining your visit with a tour of the other two nearby castles for a full day of exploration.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views and the picturesque ruins.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Ribeauvillé from your current location in Alsace. The château is approximately 1.5 km from the center of Ribeauvillé. Use the A35 motorway to reach the exit towards Ribeauvillé, then follow the D106 road. Once in Ribeauvillé, look for signs for Château de Saint-Ulrich. You will need to park in the designated parking area near the entrance to the trail that leads up to the castle. The parking may incur a fee, typically around €2-€5 for a day, depending on the season.
-
Public Transportation
To access Château de Saint-Ulrich via public transportation, take a train to Ribeauvillé from major cities like Strasbourg or Mulhouse. Upon arrival at the Ribeauvillé train station, you can either walk (approximately 20-30 minutes) or take a local bus (if available) towards the castle. If you choose to walk, exit the station and follow the signs towards the château, which will guide you along scenic paths leading up to the site. Be prepared for a moderate uphill hike, as the castle is situated on a hill.
-
Hiking
For those who enjoy hiking, after reaching Ribeauvillé, you can take the marked hiking trails that lead up to Château de Saint-Ulrich. The trails start near the town center and are well-signposted. The hike takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the trail can be steep in places.
Attractions Nearby to Château de Saint-Ulrich
- Tour des Bouchers
- La Grand Rue
- Sipp Louis Wines of Alsace
- Cave Cooperative Hunawihr
- Domaine David Ermel & Fils
- Domaine François & Fils Schwach
- Domaine Mittnacht Frères
- Ziegler Fernand et Fils
- Fontaine Sainte Hune
- Butterfly Gardens
- NaturOparC (eg Reintroduction Center)
- Resort Barrière Ribeauvillé
- Domaine Edmond Rentz
- Tower Museum of Thieves
- Ancienne église Notre-Dame de Riquewihr
Landmarks nearby to Château de Saint-Ulrich
- Château de Saint-Ulrich
- Cave de Ribeauvillé
- La Porte Haute
- Wines of Alsace HORCHER
- Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg
- Mambourg
- Domaine Paul Blanck
- Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace
- Château de Kaysersberg
- Route des Vins d'Alsace
- La Montagne des Singes
- Elsass Destination
- Castle Wineck
- Statue de la Liberté
- DETOUR ALSACE