Château de Kaysersberg: A Sentinel Over the Valley
Explore the imposing ruins of Château de Kaysersberg, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the Alsace Wine Route and a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Perched atop a rocky promontory overlooking the charming town of Kaysersberg, the Château de Kaysersberg stands as a silent witness to centuries of Alsatian history. Built in the 13th century by the Holy Roman Empire, this imposing fortress controlled a vital passage between Alsace and Lorraine. Today, its well-preserved ruins offer visitors a unique glimpse into medieval military architecture and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the Weiss valley. A climb to the top of the circular keep, with its walls over four meters thick, rewards you with vistas stretching to Germany's Black Forest on a clear day. The castle is free to visit and easily accessible from the town center, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and sightseers alike. Explore the castle's ramparts, imagine life within its walls, and soak in the beauty of the Alsace region from this strategic vantage point.
A brief summary to Château de Kaysersberg
- Rue du Général de Gaulle, Kaysersberg-Vignoble, 68240, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the castle and for climbing the spiral staircase inside the keep.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the top of the keep, especially on a clear day when you can see the Black Forest.
- Combine your visit to the castle with a stroll through the charming town of Kaysersberg and a wine tasting at a local winery.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the views from the castle are best enjoyed on a clear day.
- Visit the castle in the late afternoon for beautiful lighting and fewer crowds.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Kaysersberg (e.g., the town hall or the parking area near Rue du Général de Gaulle), follow the marked path that begins near the town hall. The path leads along the ramparts and gradually ascends through vineyards towards the castle ruins. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes and involves some uphill climbing. There are two staircases and a path through the vineyards that will take you to the castle. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in places. No special transport or tolls are required.
-
Driving
While it's not possible to drive directly to the castle, you can park in one of the public parking lots in Kaysersberg. From there, follow the walking directions above. Parking is available in several locations, including a large parking lot on the east side of the old town (GPS: 48.137370, 7.265890) and smaller lots on the south side (GPS: 48.137032, 7.262098) and west side (GPS: 48.138961, 7.259235) of town. Parking fees vary, but a daily parking fee of €5 may be available if you are staying in Kaysersberg (contact your accommodation provider to qualify). The car parks in Kaysersberg are not free of charge or for a limited time (blue zone).
-
Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take the bus to Kaysersberg Vignoble - Collège. From there, walk towards the town center and follow the walking directions above. Bus line 68R013 serves Kaysersberg from Colmar and other nearby towns. A single ticket costs approximately €4. From the bus stop, walk towards the town hall and follow the marked path that leads to the castle.
Discover more about Château de Kaysersberg
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Domaine Paul Blanck
1.8 km
Discover Alsatian winemaking at Domaine Paul Blanck, a historic winery crafting exceptional wines in the heart of Kaysersberg-Vignoble.
Route des Vins d'Alsace
3.2 km
Discover Alsace's enchanting Route des Vins: a scenic trail through vineyards, picturesque villages, and world-renowned wineries.
Mambourg
3.4 km
Discover Mambourg Vineyard, a historic Alsace Grand Cru, offering exquisite white wines and stunning landscapes in the heart of Kaysersberg-Vignoble.
Sigolsheim national cemetery
3.4 km
Explore the serene Sigolsheim National Cemetery in Kaysersberg-Vignoble, a poignant tribute to fallen soldiers amidst stunning Alsatian scenery.
La Porte Haute
3.9 km
Step through time at La Porte Haute, the historic gateway to the enchanting medieval village of Riquewihr, Alsace.
Tower Museum of Thieves
3.9 km
Explore medieval justice and local history in Riquewihr's chilling Tower Museum of Thieves, a unique and immersive historical experience.
Ancienne église Notre-Dame de Riquewihr
4.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this Gothic architectural gem in the heart of Alsace.
Elsass Destination
5.2 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Elsass Destination, where picturesque landscapes and rich Alsatian culture await every traveler.
NaturOparC (eg Reintroduction Center)
6.2 km
Discover Alsace's wildlife at NaturOparC: a sanctuary for storks, otters, and the Alsatian hamster, promoting biodiversity and conservation.
Cave de Ribeauvillé
7.5 km
Discover the heart of Alsatian winemaking at France's oldest cooperative winery, where tradition meets terroir in every glass.
Château de Saint-Ulrich
7.6 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Château de Saint-Ulrich, a medieval castle offering panoramic views of Ribeauvillé and the Alsatian landscape.
Statue de la Liberté
8.3 km
A tribute to Auguste Bartholdi, designer of the Statue of Liberty, this replica symbolizes Franco-American friendship in his birthplace of Colmar.
L’Alsaciette
9.6 km
Explore Alsace through L'Alsaciette's Food & Wine Tours: Discover local winemakers, restaurants, and producers in a comfortable minibus journey.
Calvaire de Colmar
9.7 km
Discover the Calvaire de Colmar, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the rich past and cultural heritage of Colmar, France.
1 Pl. Rapp
9.8 km
Experience the picturesque charm of Place Rapp in Colmar, a vibrant square surrounded by stunning architecture and delightful culinary experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kaysersberg-Vignoble
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Kaysersberg-Vignoble, a picturesque village in Alsace known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delightful wines.
UGolf d'Ammerschwihr
1.9 km
Experience the beauty of Alsace at UGolf d'Ammerschwihr, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional golfing challenges and local culture.
Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace
2.0 km
Discover the art of Alsatian winemaking at Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace in Kaysersberg-Vignoble, exploring centuries of tradition within the historic Château de la Confrérie Saint-Étienne.
Jean Baptiste Adam
2.2 km
Discover the exquisite wines and rich heritage at Jean Baptiste Adam Winery in Ammerschwihr, a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Abbaye d'alspach
2.3 km
Discover the Abbaye d'Alspach in Kaysersberg-Vignoble: where a 12th-century abbey turned paper mill meets contemporary art in a historical monument showcasing Alsace's rich heritage.
Rte des Vins
3.2 km
Explore Rte des Vins in Kaysersberg-Vignoble, where scenic vineyards meet rich Alsatian culture and exquisite local wines await.
Castle Wineck
3.7 km
Explore the historic Château du Wineck in Katzenthal, Alsace: a medieval castle surrounded by vineyards, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Alsatian heritage.
Musée du Dolder
3.9 km
Explore the enchanting Musée du Dolder in Riquewihr, a treasure trove of history and culture nestled in the heart of Alsace, France.
Office de Tourisme Riquewihr
3.9 km
Explore the enchanting village of Riquewihr with insights from the Office de Tourisme – your hub for local culture, history, and stunning landscapes.
Famille HUGEL Viticulteurs et négociants à Riquewihr depuis 1639
3.9 km
Explore the heritage of Famille HUGEL Winery in Riquewihr, where centuries-old tradition meets exquisite Alsatian wines in a picturesque setting.
Riquewihr
4.0 km
Explore the charming village of Riquewihr, where medieval architecture meets lush vineyards in the heart of Alsace, France.
Wines of Alsace HORCHER
4.2 km
Discover the rich heritage of Alsatian wines at Wines of Alsace HORCHER in Mittelwihr, where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes.
Domaine DOPFF AU MOULIN
4.2 km
Explore the rich heritage and exceptional wines of Domaine DOPFF AU MOULIN in Riquewihr, a must-see winery in the Alsace region of France.
Domaine Laurence & Philippe Greiner
4.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Alsace at Domaine Laurence & Philippe Greiner in Riquewihr, where family tradition meets organic winemaking for an unforgettable experience.
Grands Crus - Sentier Viticole
4.8 km
Hike through Alsace's scenic vineyards on the Sentier Viticole, discover charming wine villages, and savor world-renowned wines along this unforgettable trail.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant La Vieille Forge Colmar Kaysersberg
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant La Vieille Forge in Kaysersberg, where tradition meets flavor amidst scenic surroundings.
Restaurant du Château
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant du Château in Kaysersberg, where tradition meets culinary excellence in every dish.
Bratschall Manala
0.2 km
Discover authentic Alsatian flavors at Bratschall Manala in Kaysersberg – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant A la Porte Haute
0.2 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Restaurant A la Porte Haute in Kaysersberg – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Caveau du Schlossberg
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of Alsace at Caveau du Schlossberg, where authentic French cuisine meets charming ambiance in Kaysersberg.
La Table d'Olivier Nasti
0.3 km
Indulge in exquisite French gastronomy at La Table d'Olivier Nasti, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in Kaysersberg-Vignoble.
L'Alchémille
1.3 km
Experience exquisite French dining at L'Alchémille in Kaysersberg-Vignoble—where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Côté Vigne Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Côté Vigne, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Kaysersberg.
Restaurant Julien Binz
2.2 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at Restaurant Julien Binz in Ammerschwihr, where haute French cuisine meets exquisite service.
Auberge les 3 Alsaciennes
2.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge les 3 Alsaciennes in Kaysersberg - a culinary delight steeped in tradition.
La Table du Gourmet - Restaurant Riquewihr [JL BRENDEL]
3.9 km
Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at La Table du Gourmet in Riquewihr - where culinary art meets stunning views.
![La Table du Gourmet - Restaurant Riquewihr [JL BRENDEL]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/RestaurantImages/1d633a5f-f6d6-450a-9172-573fa350204d)
La Grappe d'Or - Riquewihr
4.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Grappe d'Or in Riquewihr – where tradition meets culinary excellence amidst stunning Alsatian scenery.
AOR La Table le goût et Nous - Riquewihr
4.1 km
Experience exquisite fusion cuisine blending Asian and French flavors at AOR La Table le goût et Nous in Riquewihr's charming setting.
Hotel Restaurant Au Riesling
5.6 km
Discover authentic French cuisine and breathtaking vineyard views at Hotel Restaurant Au Riesling in picturesque Zellenberg.
Taverne Alsacienne
5.9 km
Experience the best of Alsatian cuisine at Taverne Alsacienne in Ingersheim – where family-friendly dining meets authentic French flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Boutique Zig Zag, artisans créateurs alsaciens
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship of Alsace at Boutique Zig Zag, a haven for artisanal treasures in Kaysersberg.
Domaine Pierre Adam | Vins d'Alsace
2.1 km
Discover the exquisite wines and stunning landscapes of Domaine Pierre Adam, a premier Alsatian vineyard perfect for wine lovers and travelers.
Le Cellier
4.0 km
Explore Le Cellier in Riquewihr for unique gifts and artisanal treasures that embody the charm of Alsace.
La Cristallerie
4.0 km
Explore La Cristallerie in Riquewihr: A gift shop filled with local arts, crafts, and unique treasures that reflect Alsace's rich culture.
Couleurs d'Alsace
4.0 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Alsace at Couleurs d'Alsace, your destination for unique gifts and local treasures in Riquewihr.
Douce France
7.4 km
Discover unique Alsatian souvenirs at Douce France, where local craftsmanship meets delightful shopping in Ribeauvillé.
Vins d'Alsace Hubert KRICK
7.6 km
Explore the exquisite wines and rich heritage of Alsace at Vins d'Alsace Hubert KRICK, a must-visit winery in Wintzenheim.
Centre Commercial Shop'in Houssen
8.0 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Centre Commercial Shop'in Houssen, where fashion, dining, and entertainment come together in one vibrant destination.
Wolfberger Boutique Colmar
8.2 km
Explore Wolfberger Boutique in Colmar for a unique wine tasting experience, showcasing the finest Alsatian wines and local delicacies.
Wine Estate of the city of Colmar
8.5 km
Explore the enchanting Wine Estate of Colmar, where exquisite Alsace wines meet rich heritage and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Vinothèque Colmar Nord
9.1 km
Explore Vinothèque Colmar Nord - your premier destination for exquisite Alsace wines and local liquors in the heart of Colmar.
OG STORE
9.7 km
Discover OG STORE in Colmar: Your ultimate destination for stylish men's clothing and accessories in the heart of Alsace.
PYLONES
9.7 km
Explore PYLONES in Colmar: A colorful gift shop offering unique gadgets, fashion accessories, and home decor that captures the essence of French charm.
Des Petits Hauts
9.8 km
Explore the stylish world of Des Petits Hauts in Colmar, where chic women's fashion meets the charm of French elegance and creativity.
Venise Emoi
9.8 km
Discover the charm of Alsace at Venise Emoi, a boutique offering locally crafted treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of Colmar.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Au Cep de Vigne
4.0 km
Discover the enchanting Au Cep de Vigne in Riquewihr, where local flavors and cozy accommodations meet the charm of Alsace.
Bra'V, La Brasserie du Vignoble à Riquewihr
4.1 km
Experience the essence of Alsace at Bra'V, La Brasserie du Vignoble, where gourmet tapas and local brews create unforgettable moments in Riquewihr.
Le Bar'th
4.7 km
Unwind in the heart of Beblenheim at Le Bar'th, where local wines and a cozy ambiance create the perfect retreat for travelers.
Le Dilem'
7.2 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful drink selection at Le Dilem', the charming bar in Lapoutroie, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
JAF Colmar : Bar & Caviste en bières, vins et spiritueux
9.0 km
Experience the best of Alsace with a diverse selection of beers and wines at JAF Colmar, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Brasserie St. Cru
9.1 km
Discover the local brewing culture at Brasserie St. Cru, a vibrant brewpub in Colmar offering a diverse selection of craft beers and a warm atmosphere.
La Folie
9.6 km
Discover the exquisite wines and cocktails of La Folie, a must-visit wine bar in Colmar, where every sip tells a story of tradition and passion.
Rhum N' Co
9.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at Rhum N' Co, where exquisite cocktails and delicious tapas create an unforgettable experience.
L' Apothek
9.7 km
Discover L' Apothek, a vibrant bar in Colmar offering exquisite drinks, a cozy ambiance, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
O'Rabbit's Irish Pub
9.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors of Ireland at O'Rabbit's Irish Pub in Colmar, a perfect spot for food and fun.
Le Shelby Colmar
9.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Shelby Colmar, where craft beers, cocktails, and wines await in a cozy and lively atmosphere.
K Bar
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at K Bar, where exquisite cocktails and a chic atmosphere await you.
Le Major'L
9.9 km
Experience the essence of Alsatian wine culture at Le Major'L in Colmar, a cozy wine bar perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
L’Un des Sens | Assiettes gourmandes et canons à partager au bar à vin intimiste du vieux Colmar
10.0 km
Discover the delightful fusion of gourmet dishes and exquisite wines at L’Un des Sens, your intimate wine bar in Colmar.
Café des Marchands
10.0 km
Experience the best of Alsace wines and craft beers at Café des Marchands in the heart of Colmar, a cozy haven for all wine and beer lovers.
