Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein
10.8kmLength
503mElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Exciting circular hike in the Dahmer Felsenland, Rhineland-Palatinate.
Start at the car park at the Drachenfelshütte. There is a restaurant and WCs here. The ascent to the Drachenfels ruins is only a short one. The striking shape immediately catches the eye, despite the destruction over the centuries. Its history dates back to the 12th century and the dragon can still be seen on the wall of the castle's former great hall. Berwartstein Castle is also worth a visit - the castle was first mentioned in the 12th century. Although it has seen some destruction and decay over the centuries, today it is the only castle in the Wasgau region that is still inhabited.
A must for all castle fans - good shoes and enough time for sightseeing should be in your luggage.
There are refreshment stops at the starting point, at Berwartstein Castle and in the small village of Erlenbach near Dahn.
Highlights:
- Drachenfels ruins
- View of Drachenfels
- Berwartstein Castle
- Klein-Frankreich castle ruins
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Heidenberg
Peak
Drachenfels
Peak
Schulerturm
Cliff
Drachenfelsaussicht
Viewpoint
Burgruine Drachenfels
Castle
Schlüsselfels / Heidenpfeiler
Viewpoint
Burgruine Klein-Frankreich
Castle
Burggarten
Garden
Berwartstein
Castle
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 10.8-km circular trail near Busenberg, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 39 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is the expected weather this week for Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Expected weather for Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 27.3 degrees/claro
- Sun 27 September - 27.5 degrees/claro
- Mon 28 September - 28.1 degrees/claro
- Tue 29 September - 27.9 degrees/claro
- Wed 30 September - 19.6 degrees/chuva
Where is Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein located?
Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is considered a moderate hike that covers 10.8 km, with an elevation gain of 503 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is considered a moderate hike that covers 10.8 km, with an elevation gain of 503 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein a circular?
Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is a circular trail that covers 10.8 km, with an elevation gain of 503 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is a circular trail that covers 10.8 km, with an elevation gain of 503 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Dogs may be allowed on Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Are there scenic views at Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Drachenfelsaussicht and Schlüsselfels / Heidenpfeiler.
Is Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is partially paved.
Are there forests at Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein?
Yes, Drachenfels Castle - Klein-Frankreich Castle Ruins - Berwartstein is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Last updated on 26 September 2026 at 01:59 GMT+0