Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View
Closure
·
44% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
8.6miLength
1,660ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Loop
• Partial closure: The hiking trail to the Schadeck Castle ruins has been closed to the public effective immediately as of July 8, 2026, until further notice due to fallen trees, as there is a risk of death. For more information: https://tinyurl.com/yeymkp6w
Popular loop near Neckarsteinach, Baden-Württemberg.
As the name suggests, four castles and castle ruins await you on this tour, including the ruins of the Swallow's Nest (also known as Castle Schadeck). Fantastic views of the Neckar and great forest trails round off the varied hiking experience. There are places to stop. The route is accessible by bus and train.
There is a fairly steep ascent to the Hoher Darsberg, which is why a basic level of fitness and sturdy shoes are an advantage.
Highlights:
- Magnificent views of the Neckar valley
- Swallow's Nest castle ruins
- Front castle, middle castle and rear castle Neckarsteinach
- High Darsberg with a view of Goethe
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Campingplatz Steinachtal
Campsite
Vorderburg
Castle
Schwalbennest
Castle
Goethe-Blick
Picnic site
Mittelburg
Castle
Hinterburg
Castle
Kaisereiche
Viewpoint
Hoher Darsberg
Peak
Drei Fichten
Picnic site
Nibelungengarten
Garden
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
This trail is closed. We'll update this page if and when it reopens.
What is the expected weather this week for Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Expected weather for Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] for the next 5 days is:
- Tue, September 22 - 68 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 65 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 68 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 82 degrees/clear
Where is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] located?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is a trail located in Geo-Nature Park Bergstrasse-Odenwald.
How hard is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,660 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,660 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] a loop?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is a loop trail that covers 8.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,660 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is a loop trail that covers 8.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,660 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Dogs may be allowed on Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
According to trailgoers, Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is usually busy. Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Yes, Kaisereiche is located on Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED].
Is camping allowed at Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Camping is allowed on Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] in Geo-Nature Park Bergstrasse-Odenwald. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED] is partially paved.
Are there wildflowers at Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED]?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Neckarsteinach: Four Castles and Goethe's View [CLOSED], though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 8, 2026 at 12:23 am GMT+0