Château de Loewenstein

Warning: Due to the instability of the building, access to the castle is prohibited until further notice. Updated August 2026.
Located near Hohenbourg, Loewenstein sits on the southern spur of the Schlossberg, an imposing sandstone cliff. Dating from the 12th century, the first mention of its existence dates back to 1283; the year in which the Imperial Grand Bailiff Otto III of Ochsenstein seized the castle, which was occupied by knights who refused to recognize the new king, Rudolf of Habsburg, who was regaining control of the empire. Around 1370, the site was divided into two distinct sections, one held by the Ochsensteins and the other by Hans Streuff of Landenberg. In 1386, Hennel and Hans of Bitche, in alliance with the Ochsensteins, launched raids from the castle on the lands of the Lords of Lichtenberg, with whom they were in conflict. The castle was then dismantled by a full-scale army dispatched by the City of Strasbourg and Lord Jean de Lichtenberg to put an end to this “nest” of marauding knights. The castle was reportedly rebuilt, at least partially, and remained occupied until the 16th century. Its final destruction remains a mystery. Very little remains today, but a stop is well worth it for the beauty of the site and the view from the top of the rock over the Northern Vosges and the Palatinate.

Access: From the Fleckenstein visitor center, take the trail marked with a red rectangle to the Schlossberg Pass. From there, follow the trail marked with a red-white-red rectangle, which will lead you to the ruins. Allow 30 minutes for the walk.