Top 12 Castles around Strohn

The most prominent castles in the immediate vicinity are the Manderscheid Upper Castle and Manderscheid Lower Castle. These two historic sites are located opposite each other in the Lieser valley. Additionally, you can explore the ruins of Entersburg, marked by the Steffenswarte viewing tower.

Yes, both Manderscheid Lower Castle and the View of the Manderscheid Castles are considered family-friendly. The Lower Castle allows dogs, and the area between the two Manderscheid castles, known as the Tournament Meadow Below Oberburg, is a perfect spot for a family picnic. The castle festival with jousting tournaments in late August is also a popular family event.

The castles in the Manderscheid area, particularly the Upper and Lower Castles, reflect the historical conflict between the Electorate of Trier and the Duchy of Luxembourg. Manderscheid Upper Castle was a state castle of the Archbishops of Trier, while Manderscheid Lower Castle served as the residence for the Lords of Manderscheid. The Entersburg ruins also have a rich history, with evidence of Celtic and Roman fortifications preceding the medieval castle.

Yes, dogs are allowed at Manderscheid Lower Castle, making it a great option for visitors with pets. The surrounding trails and viewpoints are also generally dog-friendly.

For excellent perspectives of both the Upper and Lower Manderscheid Castles, visit the dedicated View of the Manderscheid Castles viewpoint. From the keep of the Manderscheid Upper Castle, you also get a wonderful view of the Lower Castle, the town of Manderscheid, and the Liesertal landscape.

Yes, the region offers challenging hikes. For instance, the 'Keep of Oberburg Castle loop from Manderscheid' is a difficult 4.2 km mountain hike. You can find more challenging routes and trails in the Mountain Hikes around Strohn guide.

Beyond exploring the castles, the area around Strohn offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Mountain Hikes. Many of these routes pass by or offer views of the castles and the unique volcanic landscape.

Strohn is known for its volcanic landscape, characterized by maars (volcanic lakes) and lava formations. While the castles themselves are historical structures, their surroundings in the volcanic Eifel region offer opportunities to observe these unique geological features, such as the famous Lavabombe in Strohn.

Manderscheid Upper Castle is generally free to enter. For Manderscheid Lower Castle, there is an admission fee, which was 3 EUR as of September 2018. The castle site of Entersburg is freely accessible, though the Steffenswarte viewing tower is currently not accessible due to its condition.

Visitors frequently praise the well-preserved nature of Manderscheid Lower Castle and the stunning views it offers over the Lieser river. The mighty keep and diamond-shaped floor plan of Manderscheid Upper Castle are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the combination of historical exploration with the beautiful natural scenery of the Lieser valley.

While not entirely hidden, the Entersburg ruins offer a glimpse into a former spur castle with a history dating back to Celtic and Roman fortifications. The Steffenswarte viewing tower marks its location, and the castle site itself is freely accessible, offering a less crowded historical experience.

The region is beautiful in various seasons. Summer offers pleasant weather for walks and picnics, especially at the Tournament Meadow Below Oberburg. The castle festival in late August is a highlight. Spring and autumn also provide excellent conditions for hiking with vibrant foliage or blooming nature, and generally fewer crowds.