Hiking Highlight
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for: Geo-Naturpark Bergstraße-Odenwald
Auerbach Castle was built above the town of Zwingenberg at the beginning of the 13th century to ensure customs revenue and security on the mountain road. It was built by the Counts of Katzenelnbogen, a powerful noble family from the Rhine-Main area.
At that time, the castle was considered impregnable and was expanded over the years. When the last Count von Katzenelnbogen died around 250 years after the castle was built in 1479, the castle came into the possession of the Landgraviate of Hesse-Darmstadt. Initially, the magnificent building continued to be inhabited, but due to the development of black powder siege weapons, the castle lost its strategic importance and was abandoned.
Despite everything, the ruins are in impressive condition today and both towers that have been preserved are accessible again after restoration. A unique sight is the over 300 year old pine tree that sits atop the shield wall.
December 21, 2017
A very nice castle, it is closed at the moment, but the hiking trails are always great
March 6, 2021
Auerbach Castle is one of the most famous castle complexes on the Bergstrasse. The unique view of the Rhine plain and the Odenwald is particularly fascinating.
February 10, 2022
Always nice, but at the moment it is closed like so many other things
February 28, 2021
Really great view in all directions! Odenwald - Rhine plain - Palatinate Forest - Melibokus! The castle walls and the two towers are great!
June 17, 2017
The ruin is generally open daily from around 10am-5pm and freely (and free) accessible. In the restaurant (other opening times) you can even book knight's meals with English-speaking heralds. Opening hours, contact and more at
schloss-auerbach.de
The more than 300-year-old pine tree on a shield wall of the castle covers part of its water requirements from the humidity in the air, which condenses on the needles and drips to the ground. Unbelievable!
October 12, 2019
Great castle complex with a fantastic view of the Rhine plain
June 29, 2020
Auerbach Castle is always worth a visit. In addition to a great view, there is also a kiosk here in the summer months. There are also toilets available for everyone. Clean ! In all ways. From here there are beautiful circular routes through the forest in the direction of Alsbach Castle or Melibokus. Or you hike downhill to Auerbach. There are a few nice places to stop here. Or continue via the Fürstenlager to the Kirchberghäuschen.
March 6, 2022
Very well preserved castle.
Here you can also marry or make a knight's meal.
Registration for the Knight's Meal required.
January 18, 2017
The pine, which grows on top of the castle, is considered the oldest in Germany.
October 13, 2017
Very nice hiking destination, unfortunately you can't get to the facility at the moment due to the corona conditions.
January 16, 2021
In good weather, beautiful views, relatively well preserved, very decent gastronomy.
November 10, 2019
A beautiful and well-preserved castle with a great view of the surrounding valleys! °
July 5, 2020
Very well preserved castle ruin also to make a small break and to enjoy the beautiful view
February 20, 2017
There is a lot to discover here, a real adventure for the family. Fortunately, without entry. Attention, during the winter months only open on weekends.
October 30, 2019
There are also great views of the Hessian Ried and the Bergstrasse from Auerbach Castle
November 1, 2021
The castle complex has something to offer not only architecturally, but also botanically. This approx. 300-year-old, seven-meter-tall pine tree grows in the middle of the battlement, defying wind and weather on the barren ground. The real hallmark of the ruin!
December 29, 2022
Impressive view of the surroundings. The tree that grows up on the walls is very bizarre.
February 11, 2018
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