Less than 20 km from the Munster valley, Alsace has one of the highest concentrations of medieval castles in France. Perched on the Vosges foothills, these fortresses overlook the Alsace plain and offer exceptional views over the vineyards and surrounding peaks.
From Camping Les Amis de la Nature, they make an ideal outing combining heritage, history and fresh air.
Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle, the most visited fortress in Alsace
Restored in the early 20th century, Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle is now the most visited historic monument in Alsace. Perched at 757 metres above Orschwiller, less than 20 km from the Munster valley, it reveals medieval defensive architecture, its armouries and its keep.
From its ramparts, the view stretches over the Alsace plain, the vineyards and, on clear days, as far as the Black Forest and the Swiss Alps.
At its foot, in Kintzheim, La Montagne des Singes lets you extend your visit by meeting free-roaming Barbary macaques.
Other Vosges fortresses to explore
Alsace has many other castles to discover: the ruins of Pflixbourg castle, Hohlandsbourg castle overlooking Wintzenheim and Colmar, and the Three Castles of Eguisheim, an essential stop on a walk through the nearby Alsatian villages.
Each of these buildings tells a different chapter of the region’s history, between defending the territory and controlling medieval trade routes.
Architecture that tells the story of Alsace
A crossroads between France and the Holy Roman Empire, Alsace was shaped by centuries of feudal rivalry. The Vosges castles, often built on rocky outcrops, were used to watch over the passes and roads linking the Rhine plain to the Vosges valleys.
Many were destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War, before some, like Haut-Kœnigsbourg, were restored to their medieval appearance.
A nature and heritage outing from the Munster valley
The castles of Alsace are easy to explore as a day trip, alongside a hike on the Munster valley trails or a trip along the Alsace Wine Route, which passes through several villages overlooked by these fortresses.
Planning a family visit
Wear good shoes for the cobbled or steep access paths, and allow half a day for a full visit with children. Most castles offer activities or costumed tours during the school holidays.
Practical information
For opening hours, prices and events, see the official website of Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle. For other sights in the area, the Sélestat Haut-Kœnigsbourg Tourist Office lists visits, markets and local events.
Make the most of your stay to explore the Munster valley
From Camping Les Amis de la Nature in Luttenbach-près-Munster, setting out to discover the finest sites in the region is easy. Hikes, panoramic views, typical villages, Alsatian heritage or nature trips: our campsite is the ideal starting point for an authentic stay in the heart of the Alsatian Vosges.
Plan your stay at Camping Les Amis de la Nature and discover all the things to do around Munster.
