The Most Beautiful Castles to Visit in the Northern Vosges
Between hilltop fortresses, medieval ruins hidden in the forests and spectacular views over the Northern Vosges, Alsace is an ideal destination for lovers of history and nature. From Sessenheim, many castles can easily be reached for a day trip, between Northern Alsace, the Vosges mountains and the German border.
1. The Four Castles Trail: an immersion into medieval Alsace
Among the most spectacular routes in the Northern Vosges, the famous Four Castles Trail near Lembach offers a true immersion into Alsatian medieval history. This itinerary takes you to four fortresses built on impressive rocky spurs:
○ Fleckenstein Castle
Without doubt the most emblematic castle in the Northern Vosges, this semi-troglodyte fortress impresses visitors with its architecture carved directly into the rock.
Huge medieval fortress
Stunning forest views
Fun activities for families
👉 A must-see in Northern Alsace.
○ Loewenstein Castle
Nicknamed the “Lion Castle”, Loewenstein captivates visitors with its majestic ruins suspended in time.
Still-visible keep
Wild and mysterious atmosphere
Beautiful surrounding forest trails
👉 A favorite spot for hikers.
○ Hohenbourg Castle
Perched high above the Northern Vosges, Hohenbourg offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region.
Exceptional views over the Sauer Valley
Remarkable medieval remains
Peaceful and preserved atmosphere
👉 Ideal for a scenic picnic stop.
○ Wegelnburg
Located on the German side of the border, Wegelnburg reflects the historic ties between Alsace and the Palatinate region.
Highest castle in the Palatinate
Spectacular views over the French-German border
Timeless atmosphere
👉 The perfect spot to admire the sunset over the Vosges mountains.
2. Suggested itinerary
Start early at Fleckenstein Castle to avoid the crowds
Continue to Loewenstein via the marked hiking trails
Head towards Hohenbourg for a panoramic lunch break
Finish the day at Wegelnburg in the late afternoon
👉 Useful links to help plan your visit:
- Visit Alsace
- Alsace Verte
- Châteaux fort Alsace
3. Other must-see castles around clos de la vieille dame
○ Rohan Castle — around 50 min
Nicknamed the “Little Versailles of Alsace”, Rohan Castle impresses visitors with its elegant classical architecture.
Former episcopal residence
Gardens and historic center of Saverne
Easy access from Strasbourg and Northern Alsace
👉 Ideal for lovers of history and architecture.
○ Lichtenberg Castle — around 55 min
Fully restored, Lichtenberg Castle combines medieval heritage with contemporary scenography.
Panoramic views over the Northern Vosges
Cultural exhibitions and events
Spectacular architecture
👉 A perfect mix of culture and family discovery.
○ Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle — around 1h15
The most famous castle in Alsace.
Fully restored fortress
Stunning views over the Alsace plain
Spectacular immersion into the Middle Ages
👉 A must during any stay in Alsace.
○ Kintzheim Castle — around 1h
Known for hosting the famous Eagle Park (Volerie des Aigles).
Free-flight bird of prey shows
Medieval ruins
Ideal family activity
👉 An original and spectacular outing.
The best time to discover Alsace’s castles is from May to October, with a special mention for autumn, when the forests of the Northern Vosges turn magnificent shades of gold and red.
Thanks to its ideal location between Strasbourg, the Northern Vosges and Germany, Le Clos de la Vieille Dame is the perfect base for exploring the region’s most beautiful medieval sites.