Medieval castles
Medieval castles are an integral part of the history and landscape of Alsace. A few kilometers from the famous Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, three architectural marvels stand proudly: the castles of Frankenbourg, Bilstein and Thanvillé.
The castles of the Frankenburg and Bilstein These are the remains of this medieval period. From up there, exceptional panoramas unfold before you. From Frankenbourg, there's an unobstructed view of the Alsace plain and the Vosges mountains; while Bilstein elegantly overlooks the village of Urbeis. To discover these gems, you'll have to earn them by hiking through the woods.
The Frankenburg
Perched at an altitude of 703 meters, on a conical summit slightly detached from the sandstone massif of the Altenberg, Frankenbourg Castle It offers a spectacular panorama. From its ruins, the visitor easily understands why this site was chosen for its construction.
Located at the crossroads of the Val d'Argent and the Val de Villé, just before they open onto the central Alsace plain, this natural promontory provided an ideal vantage point. It once allowed control of major thoroughfares: the Salt Route, the silver ore trails, and those of the Alsatian vineyards.
The site also offers breathtaking views of Sélestat, the Ortenberg, the Ungersberg, and the Champ du Feu massif. The castle's construction, attributed to the Counts of Frankenbourg, is believed to date back to the early 12th century.
La hike 'Frankenbourg Castle' Starting from Neubois will take you to the building in about 2 hours.
The Bilstein
Overlooking the village of Urbeis, Bilstein Castle stands in the heart of the sandstone massif which marks the transition between the Villé Valley and the Val d'Argent.
Built on a natural rocky spur, this strategic site once allowed for the monitoring of passage routes between Lorraine and Alsace, notably the salt route, essential to medieval trade.
Today, the remains of Bilstein offer a breathtaking view over the Urbeis valley and the surrounding peaks. The tranquility of the site, the wooded atmosphere, and the charm of the ruins give the place a wild beauty, ideal for hiking and history enthusiasts.
The first mention of the castle dates back to the 12th century. It was remodeled over the centuries before being abandoned at the end of the Middle Ages.
By car, go to Urbeis, take the direction of the pass, turn right onto the D156 following the direction 'les murailles' until you arrive at the parking lot 5 minutes from the castle.
The 'Bilstein' hike Starting from Urbeis will take you to the building in about 30 minutes.
Thanvillé Castle
In the heart of the village of Thanvillé, this castle on the plain It is distinguished by its elegance and its history closely linked to the local nobility. Surrounded by a wooded park and the Lilaveronica garden, it features classical architecture dating mainly from the 17th century, although its origins go back to the late Middle Ages.
Formerly a lordly residence, the castle belonged to several illustrious families, and bears witness to the refined lifestyle of the Alsatian rural aristocracy.
Now privately owned, the castle can only be visited in the summer, but it remains visible from the road and constitutes a charming heritage site to discover during a stroll through the village.