Being one of the top castles in France and a major destination in Alsace, Haut-Koenigsburg draws over 500,000 visitors annually.
It is a great experience for everybody: from solo visitors to children. Information boards are translated into English and German and tickets aren’t expensive, around 10 euros for an adult. We spent nearly 3 hours there:
1. A bit of history about one of the top castles in France
- Erected in the 12th century, Haut-Koenigsbourg has witnessed nine centuries of European conflicts involving feudal lords, kings, and emperors.
- In the early 20th century, German Emperor Wilhelm II chose to restore the castle, which had been besieged, destroyed, and eventually abandoned during the Thirty Years’ War.
- The restoration project, notable for its scale, was completed in just eight years. Haut-Koenigsbourg was restored to its former glory and reopened its doors in 1908:
2. Quick facts about Haut – Koenigsbourg Castle
- It is soaring to nearly 800 meters.
- The Grand Fortress provides sight of the 4 great geographical features: Alsace Plain, Vosges, Black Forest, and, on clear days, – Alps.
- The castle has 354 steps and 47 doors.
- 900 years of history.
- The vital place – well is fortified and very deep – 63 meters long, so the living quarters wouldn’t be cut off during artillery attacks.
3. At the castle
While getting your tickets, ask about audio guides. Take your time and wander through the castle’s courtyards and gardens. Enjoy the architecture and imagine what life was like in a medieval castle:
On a clear day, you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the Grand Fortress and spot nearby villages, fields, or even wildlife!
4. Cafe
During the cold time of the year (we were in November) visiting Castle Cafe and sipping hot cocoa was a nice addition. The atmosphere there was wonderful:
Pick out a small souvenir from the castle’s gift shop as a memento of the visit. We brought home a pair of lightweight wooden swords 🙂
If you are visiting Haut-Koenigsbourg during spring-fall, make sure to stop on the way back at Monkey Mountain, where barbary macaques roam freely since 1969!
Make sure to check out hours, prices, and conditions before you go
Thanks for reading, we are very glad you stopped by!
Also worth visiting in Alsace:
Strasbourg Cathedral or “Notre Dame de Strasbourg”, #1 attraction in Alsace.
On a rainy day in the city:
Hiking through the beautiful Vosges mountains, full of other castles:
