Perched high above the vineyards and rolling hills of Germany’s scenic Bergstrasse sits Schloss Auerbach, a medieval castle that looks like it leapt straight from the pages of a fairy tale.
We stumbled upon it on a crisp spring morning, driving the
winding roads south of Frankfurt, and even from a distance, the castle’s
crumbling towers and sturdy stone walls called out to us. It's not the biggest
or most famous castle in Germany, but somehow, that's exactly what makes it
special.
A Castle with Stories to Tell
Schloss Auerbach dates back to the 13th century,
built by Count Diether IV of Katzenelnbogen (try saying that five times fast!)
as a fortification to protect the region and no doubt to show off a little
wealth and power. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded, fought over, and
even partly destroyed during wars, but the bones of it have survived
beautifully.
Today, it’s partly restored, partly romantic ruin, and totally open for exploration.
Climb the Tower for Epic Views
One of the best parts about Schloss Auerbach is that it’s hands-on.
You’re encouraged to climb, wander, and imagine.
The main tower is still sturdy, and after a winding stone staircase (watch your step—it’s narrow and medieval!), you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Rheinhessen and Odenwald regions. On a clear day, you can see for miles—vineyards, forests, little villages tucked into the landscape like storybook illustrations.
The wind at the top is brisk, but it somehow makes it even
better, you feel a bit like a knight surveying your kingdom.
Exploring the Ruins
Beyond the tower, there are massive defensive walls, courtyards,
and hidden stairways to explore. Ancient stone archways frame the sky,
and ivy spills from cracks in the walls. If you listen closely, you might even
hear the echoes of medieval festivals, battles, and whispered plots.
One especially fun feature is the giant tree growing right in the middle of the inner courtyard. It’s as if nature itself decided to claim a piece of the castle for its own.
Bring good shoes—some parts of the ruins are uneven—and
don’t forget your camera. The light filtering through the broken stone walls is
absolutely magical.
Food, Festivals, and Fun
At the base of the castle, there’s a cozy castle
restaurant offering hearty German fare, think sausages, schnitzel, and rich
stews. Perfect after a windy afternoon of climbing towers.
Schloss Auerbach also hosts medieval festivals,
concerts, and even knight tournaments during the warmer months. If you
can time your visit with one of these events, you’ll get a taste of living
history (plus lots of great costumes and food!).
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Castle Adventure
Schloss Auerbach isn’t polished or overly commercial. That’s
what we loved about it. It’s a place where kids can pretend they’re knights,
adults can soak in the history and views, and everyone can feel just
a little bit closer to the past.
Whether you’re making a day trip from Frankfurt, exploring
the Bergstrasse wine route, or just looking for a castle adventure that feels
personal and real, Schloss Auerbach is absolutely worth the detour.
If You Go:
- Schloss
Auerbach is located in Bensheim-Auerbach, about a 45-minute
drive from Frankfurt.
- The
castle is open year-round; check local listings for seasonal events.
- Entry
is free for the grounds; a small fee may apply for special events or
guided tours.
- Wear
sturdy shoes and bring layers—the wind on the hilltop can be strong even
on sunny days!
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