High Castle: A Ruin with a View
Explore the majestic ruins of High Castle near Emmendingen, a historic fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries of military architecture.
High Castle, or Hochburg, near Emmendingen, is one of the largest castle ruins in the Upper Rhine Valley, offering a captivating glimpse into half a millennium of military architecture. Founded in the 11th century, the castle boasts a rich history, having been owned by the Lords of Hachberg and the Margraves of Baden. Its strategic hilltop location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest. Explore the remnants of this once-mighty fortress, including its impressive bastions and defensive walls, and discover the stories etched into its stones. While largely destroyed in the 17th century, the ruins have been preserved and maintained, allowing visitors to wander through history and imagine the castle's former glory. The site is open year-round, offering a unique experience in every season, from the lush greenery of summer to the stark beauty of winter.
A brief summary to High Castle
- Burg, Emmendingen, Hochburg, 79312, DE
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain within the castle ruins can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds, taking in the stunning views of the Rhine Valley and Black Forest.
- Check the Hochburg's website for upcoming events, such as historical reenactments or concerts.
- Visit the small museum within the castle to learn more about its history and significance.
- Combine your visit with a hike on one of the many scenic trails in the surrounding area.
Getting There
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Bus
From Emmendingen train station, take bus line SB5 towards Windenreute. Get off at the 'Windenreute Hochburg' stop. From there, follow the signs uphill for approximately 15-20 minutes on foot to reach the castle entrance. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes. A single bus fare costs approximately €3-5.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Emmendingen train station to High Castle takes approximately 15 minutes. The ride will cost around €21-€26. Note that while you can be dropped off near the castle, parking is limited, and a short uphill walk is still required to reach the entrance.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a scenic walk, a hiking route leads from Emmendingen's Stadtgarten (city park) to High Castle. The trail is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete. Follow the signs for 'Hochburg' along the well-marked path. Be prepared for an uphill climb towards the end of the hike.
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Driving
From Emmendingen, follow the signs for 'Hochburg'. The route will take you through Windenreute. Continue up the hill until you reach the visitor parking area located just beyond a farmhouse on the left side of the road. From the parking area, it's a short, but steep, walk up a footpath to the castle. Parking is free but can be limited, especially during peak season.
Discover more about High Castle
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