Background

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: A Medieval Fortress in Alsace

Explore a restored medieval castle with panoramic views of the Alsace region, blending history and stunning scenery.

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Perched high in the Vosges Mountains, the Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a fully restored medieval castle offering panoramic views of the Alsace plain. Built in the 12th century, it has witnessed centuries of conflicts and has been influenced by various rulers, including the Hohenstaufens and Habsburgs.

A brief summary to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

  • Monday 10:30 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate within the castle.
  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month from November to March for free admission.
  • Allow several hours to fully explore the castle and enjoy the panoramic views.
  • Bring a baby carrier for young children, as strollers are not recommended due to the many stairs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Sélestat train station, take the line 500 shuttle bus directly to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes. The fare is €2.50 each way. Shuttle users can get a reduced entrance fee to the castle.

  • Car

    Drive to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg via D159. Free parking is available along the road leading to the castle, though it can be crowded during peak season. From the parking area, it is a short, uphill walk of about 300 meters on a dirt path to the castle entrance.

  • Taxi

    From Sélestat train station, a taxi to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg costs approximately €30-€45 and takes about 16 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

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Discover more about Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Rising dramatically from the crest of a hill, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a testament to centuries of Alsatian history. Originally built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, the castle strategically guarded medieval trade routes between France and Germany. Over the centuries, it fell into disrepair, suffering destruction in the Thirty Years' War. In the late 19th century, German Emperor Wilhelm II undertook a controversial restoration, aiming to revive the Middle Ages and mark the western boundary of the German Empire. The restored castle, inaugurated in 1908, blends Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Today, it stands as one of the most visited sites in Alsace, drawing visitors with its imposing pink sandstone structure and panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the Alsace Plain, the Black Forest, and even the Swiss Alps. Inside, a signed route guides you through the castle's various rooms, revealing furnished chambers, ancient drawbridges, and informative displays. The castle also features a restaurant with regional and medieval dishes.

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