Perched on a rocky spur, this flamboyantly colored castle has dominated its surroundings for almost a thousand years. With a rich history spanning the centuries, it is still standing today and welcomes almost 500,000 visitors a year. Accessible from Colmar or Sélestat, a 2h10 train ride from the capital, this is a particularly pleasant autumn getaway.
A majestic château perfect for an autumn visit
Built in the 12th century, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is one of Alsace’s most emblematic monuments. Perched at an altitude of almost 800 metres on a rocky spur, it once watched over the region’s strategic trade routes. Restored in the early 20th century at the instigation of Kaiser Wilhelm II, it is now in an exceptional state of preservation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a medieval fortress.
Inside, you’ll discover the faithfully reconstructed armories, kitchens, stately apartments and inner courtyard. Visitors can immerse themselves in the centuries of history that have passed this way, imagining the scenes of life at the time, in the grand logis, the banqueting hall or on the ramparts, for example. Numerous exhibitions and events enhance the visit, ideal for families and history buffs alike.
On a clear day, the view from the top of the main tower stretches as far as the Vosges, the Black Forest and sometimes even the Swiss Alps. The castle is also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts: the contrast between the pink sandstone walls and the surrounding landscape is spectacular in any season.
But autumn is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons to discover Haut-Kœnigsbourg. From the ramparts, the view over the Alsace plain is adorned in flamboyant hues of red, yellow and orange. The spectacle of the surrounding forests makes for a particularly magical experience. What’s more, it’s the perfect time to take full advantage of the site without the summer crowds!
The château is located in Orschwiller, an hour from Strasbourg and 20 minutes from Colmar. It can be reached by car, but also by shuttle bus from Sélestat. Open almost all year round, tickets can be purchased online to avoid waiting times. Guided tours are regularly organized, including in several languages.
📍Château du Haut-Koenigbourg – 67600 Orschwiller
📆 Opening hours : Open daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm
🚇 Access: From Paris, take the train to Sélestat, then the L500 shuttle.