Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail
50% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
8.7kmLength
428mElevation gain
3–3.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Legendary circular hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest, Rhineland-Palatinate.
The Three Castles Trail starts at the Spangenberg car park (the train station is within walking distance) and leads to the ruins of three hilltop castles. Erfenstein Castle marks the beginning soon after the start. The trail continues to Breitenstein Castle and shortly before the end of the hike, Spangenberg Castle, the oldest of the three ruins, awaits in the Elmstein valley. You should bring some stamina with you, as the hilltop castles are reached via some quite steep climbs.
Attention! The signposting and telephone/GPS reception along the route is poor in places.
Highlights of the hike:
- Spangenberg Castle (approx. 11th century)
- Breitenstein Castle (13th century)
- Erfenstein Castle (13th century)
- Great views of the Esthal
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Stutgarten
Monument
Burg Spangenberg
Castle
Burg Breitenstein
Castle
Ritterstein 113 "R. Breitenstein 500 Schr."
Attraction
Burg Erfenstein
Castle
Burgbrunnen Burg Spangenberg
Spring
Breitensteiner Klause
Reservoir
Historischer Steinbruch
Attraction
Alt-Erfenstein
Attraction
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 8.7-km circular trail near Frankeneck, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 0 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Expected weather for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 27.3 degrees/onbewolkt
- Sun 27 September - 27.4 degrees/onbewolkt
- Mon 28 September - 26.3 degrees/onbewolkt
- Tue 29 September - 27.4 degrees/onbewolkt
- Wed 30 September - 26.8 degrees/onbewolkt
Where is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail located?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 428 m. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 428 m. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail a circular?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a circular trail that covers 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 428 m. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a circular trail that covers 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 428 m. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Dogs may be allowed on Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail.
How busy is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
According to trailgoers, Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is usually busy. March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail.
Is there running at Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is good for running. This trail covers 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 428 m.
Are there wildflowers at Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 02:18 GMT+0