Notweiler 4-Castle Tour
87% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
6.5miLength
1,499ftElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Loop
Crossing the border between Germany and France, this picturesque loop connects four dramatic medieval castle ruins perched high in the Palatinate Forest and Northern Vosges. Starting in the timber-framed village of Nothweiler, the path ascends past natural sandstone cliffs to the Wegelnburg, the highest castle ruin in the region. The route continues across the border to the ruins of Hohenbourg, Löwenstein, and the imposing Fleckenstein, which is carved directly into a massive rock spire. Wide valley views stretch across lush green canopy throughout the journey. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are helpful for navigating uneven stone steps and sandy forest pathways.
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Top sights
Schlossberg
Peak
Sindelsberg
Peak
Langer Fels
Cliff
Château du Loewenstein
Castle
Château de Fleckenstein
Castle
Wegelnburg
Castle
Château de Hohenbourg
Castle
Source Maidenbrunnen
Spring
Château de Loewenstein
Ruins
Kuhnenkopf
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 6.5-mile loop trail near Nothweiler, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 26 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
What is the expected weather this week for Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Expected weather for Notweiler 4-Castle Tour for the next 5 days is:
- Fri, September 25 - 77 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 80 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 82 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 81 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 29 - 81 degrees/clear
Where is Notweiler 4-Castle Tour located?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is considered a moderate hike that covers 6.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,499 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is considered a moderate hike that covers 6.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,499 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Notweiler 4-Castle Tour a loop?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is a loop trail that covers 6.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,499 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is a loop trail that covers 6.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,499 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Notweiler 4-Castle Tour. Double check regulations about going off leash.
When is the best time of year to hike Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
According to trailgoers, Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is usually very busy. Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there forests at Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Yes, Notweiler 4-Castle Tour is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Are there wildflowers at Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Notweiler 4-Castle Tour, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Notweiler 4-Castle Tour?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Notweiler 4-Castle Tour in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 25, 2026 at 9:43 am GMT+0