Badenweiler Castle: A Ruin with a View

Explore the romantic ruins of Badenweiler Castle in the Black Forest, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history, all set within a beautiful English landscape garden.

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Badenweiler Castle

Badenweiler Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the spa town of Badenweiler in the Black Forest, offers a captivating blend of history and stunning panoramic views. The castle's origins trace back to the 12th century, with its strategic importance growing over the centuries as it protected the surrounding silver mines. Though destroyed in 1678 during the Dutch War, the ruins have been preserved and integrated into a delightful English landscape garden. Visitors can explore the remains of the Palas, admire the late Romanesque arched windows, and wander through the grounds, enjoying vistas of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest. The castle grounds also feature a monument to Grand Duke Friedrich I, a garden dedicated to Hildegard von Bingen, and the Belvedere, a neoclassical summerhouse, making it a multifaceted destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Free to enter and open daily, Badenweiler Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

A brief summary to Badenweiler Castle

Schloßgäßle, Badenweiler, 79410, DE
+497632799300
Visit website

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the castle and for exploring the grounds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as access may be limited during icy or snowy conditions.
Combine your visit to the castle with a relaxing experience at the Cassiopeia Therme in Badenweiler.
Explore the Hildegard von Bingen garden to discover a variety of medicinal herbs and learn about their historical uses.

Getting There

Walking

From the Kurhaus (spa building) in Badenweiler, follow the signs towards Burg Badenweiler. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in some sections. Pass the Hildegard von Bingen garden and the Chasselas Garden on your way up. There are no costs associated with walking to the castle.
Public Transport

From Müllheim train station, take bus line 111 to Badenweiler. Get off at the 'Badenweiler, Kurhaus' stop. From there, follow the walking directions to the castle (approximately 15-20 minutes uphill). A single bus fare costs approximately €3.50. The Konus Guest Card, provided by many accommodations in the Black Forest region, allows free travel on local buses and trains.
Driving

Drive towards Badenweiler and follow signs for the Kurviertel (spa district). Parking is available in the multi-story carpark near the Kurhaus (Friedrichstraße). Parking fees apply, typically around €2 per hour or €10 per day. From the carpark, follow the walking directions to the castle (approximately 15-20 minutes uphill).

Discover more about Badenweiler Castle

Badenweiler Castle, known locally as Burg Badenweiler, stands as a majestic ruin overlooking the charming spa town of Badenweiler in the southern Black Forest region of Germany. Its strategic location on a prominent hill, or Burgberg, offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine Valley, the rolling hills of the Markgräflerland, and the dense forests that define the Black Forest. Originally constructed in the early 12th century, likely by the House of Zähringen, the castle's primary purpose was to safeguard the surrounding silver mines, a vital economic resource for the region. Its strategic importance grew significantly when it came under the ownership of the Margraves of Baden in 1503. They expanded the fortress, transforming it into one of the most formidable strongholds in the Upper Rhine Valley. The castle's design incorporated materials from the ancient Roman spa that had flourished in Badenweiler centuries before, leading to early, though inaccurate, assumptions about its Roman origins. The castle's history is marked by both periods of prosperity and devastating destruction. In 1678, during the Dutch War, French soldiers besieged and ultimately destroyed the castle, leaving it in ruins. Despite its ruinous state, the castle was never fully rebuilt, and it gradually fell into disuse. However, recognizing its historical and cultural significance, restoration efforts were undertaken in 1982 and again in 2004 to preserve the remaining structures and ensure visitor safety. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved core of the castle, including the Palas, or great hall, which showcases late Romanesque arched windows. The castle grounds have been transformed into an English landscape garden, creating a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty. A circular path invites visitors to explore the Burgberg, revealing various points of interest. These include a monument dedicated to Grand Duke Friedrich I (1826–1907), a garden inspired by the medicinal herbs used by the abbess Hildegard von Bingen (1098–1179), and the Belvedere, an elegant Neoclassical summerhouse designed by architect Friedrich Weinbrenner and built between 1811 and 1816. The views from the castle are simply spectacular. From the restored castle keep, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Rhine Valley, the Römerberg, and the Black Forest. The castle's location makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the region's rich past. Badenweiler itself is a charming spa town with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town is renowned for its thermal baths, which continue to draw visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The Roman bath ruins, among the most significant Roman remains in Baden-Württemberg, provide a fascinating glimpse into the town's ancient past. Beyond its historical attractions, Badenweiler offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding Black Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The town's Kurpark, or spa gardens, offer a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls and relaxation. Badenweiler Castle stands as a testament to the region's rich history and natural beauty. Its strategic location, architectural significance, and stunning panoramic views make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Black Forest region of Germany. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Badenweiler Castle offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Accessibility to the castle is free, allowing visitors to explore the grounds during daylight hours. However, access may be restricted during periods of ice or snow to ensure visitor safety. While the castle itself is not fully barrier-free due to its structural design, efforts have been made to make the grounds as accessible as possible. Badenweiler Castle is more than just a historical site; it is a place where history, nature, and culture converge to create a truly memorable experience. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time while simultaneously offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Badenweiler Castle: A Ruin with a View

A brief summary to Badenweiler Castle

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Badenweiler Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Badenweiler Castle

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Badenweiler Castle

Grand Canal d'Alsace

Rötteln Castle

FREIBURGerLEBEN

Fondation Beyeler

Burg Kybfelsen

A. F.W. Une journée à la carte en Alsace

Wiwilíbrücke

Platz d. alten Synagoge 1

Black Forest Tours

Martinstor

Adelhauser Kirche

Kaiser-Joseph-Straße 229

Augustinerpl. 2

Augustinerplatz

Unmissable attractions to see

St. Michael

Isteiner Klotz

Isteiner Schwellen

Schauinslandbahn

Schauinsland

Engländerdenkmal

Tallest tree in Germany

Weidenpalast

Stefanienbrunnen

Graffitihaus

Grand Tour of Switzerland Foto - Basel

Dreiländereck

Rhine River Cruises

Wasserschlössle

Kaiserbrücke

Essential places to dine

Gaststätte Bure Stube

Romantik Hotel Spielweg

Taste of Black Forest

RESTAURANT _ DES LYS D'ALSACE

Das Blümchen

Süden

Waldrestaurant St. Valentin

Glasmännlein

Das Kartoffelhaus

Omas Küche

Küchenschelle

Kucci Restaurant

Goldener Anker

Weber's Weinstube

Mauritius

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

SEE THAT SHOP

Belchencenter Münstertal | Markenoutlet

Breisgau-Center

Vitra Circle Store Campus

Blackforest Warehouse

RHEIN CENTER

Marktkauf

zündstoff. fair organic clothing

Dietler Passage

Science Shop Freiburg

LUST AUF GUT Conceptstore

Fräulein Smilla

SAMBA Freiburg

Huitzilopochtli

BUTLERS@home24 Freiburg Salzstraße

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Sandoase

BAR am Funkeneck - Freiburg im Breisgau

Mudom Bar - Freiburg im Breisgau