Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg — Attraction in Sélestat-Erstein

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is one of the most impressive medieval castles in France, perched high in the Vosges mountains of Alsace. Originally built in the 12th century, it has witnessed centuries of war, destruction, and rebirth. The fortress was restored in the early 1900s under the direction of German Emperor Wilhelm II, who aimed to showcase the glory of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, it offers visitors a remarkable glimpse into feudal life and military architecture.

The castle’s strategic location—at 757 meters above sea level—provides stunning panoramic views of the Alsace plain, the Black Forest, and even the Alps on clear days. Visitors can explore its massive stone walls, drawbridge, inner courtyard, fully furnished chambers, and weapon collections. The Great Bastion and its artillery platform are particularly impressive.

For tourists, guided tours and detailed signage offer insight into medieval defense systems and daily life. It’s a perfect stop for families, history lovers, and photographers. The castle is open year-round (except Jan. 1, May 1, and Dec. 25), with parking and a shuttle from nearby Sélestat. Buying tickets online is recommended during peak season. Haut-Kœnigsbourg combines history, culture, and breathtaking scenery—an unforgettable...

Big castle and very well maintained. You can reach it via Bus 500 from train station (2,5 eur, cash) and this allows you to pay only 6 eur instead of 12 eur for the castle. You can reach the castle by some hiking trails as well. There is a café and a restaurant by the entrance. The castle has a good collection of medieval itens. You can do a self guided tour using their free paper guide (several languages). It is a one-way tour going over the inside and outside of the castle. Bathroom only before starting the tour. The view is amazing! It can get pretty crowded. Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle is a medieval fortress located in the Vosges mountains of Alsace, France. Originally built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, the castle was strategically positioned to control key trade routes across the region. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times and was besieged and destroyed during the Thirty Years' War in 1633. The ruins remained abandoned until 1899, when German Emperor Wilhelm II ordered its reconstruction as a symbol of imperial power. The restoration was carried out in a romanticized medieval style, preserving much of its original layout. Today, it stands as a major historical monument and offers a vivid glimpse into feudal life and military...

Up on the heights of Orschwiller, the outline of this imposing building can be seen from far across the plain. Visitors can't come to Alsace without paying a visit to one of its most popular monuments, which offers an outstanding view and in clear weather you can sometimes see the Alps.

When visitors enter the Castle of Haut-Kœnigsbourg through its main gate, they embark on a journey back into the Middle Ages... Its courtyard, forge, mill, spiral staircases, drawbridges, arms room, keep and canons are constant reminders of the original purpose of this mountaintop fortress.

Built in the 12th century, over the years it belonged to a series of illustrious owners. It was Emperor William II who decided to restore it.

It was used as a film location for the film "La Grande Illusion", but also "Les aventures d'Arsène Lupin" by Jacques Becker, not to mention a number of scenes from the film "Agent trouble" by Jean-Pierre Mocky.

Its unique atmosphere has fascinated many artists. Come along and discover the charm of this amazing Alsatian site for yourself...

Nearby, visitors can also visit the Volerie des Aigles (Eagle Park) and the Montagne des Singes (Monkey Mountain).

Some photos courtesy of...