Best castles around Orsingen-Nenzingen are often found on elevated terrain, offering historical insights and panoramic views. The area features a variety of castle types, from ancient ruins on volcanic cones to historical sites overlooking Lake Constance. These landmarks provide a glimpse into the region's past, showcasing medieval defensive structures and significant historical architecture. Visitors can explore these sites, which are often integrated into the natural landscape.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The present ruins of the summit castle are located on the summit of the 644 m high Hohenkrähen ("Krayen"), a mountain of volcanic origin north of Singen in the Hegau, between the villages of Duchtlingen, Schlatt unter Krähen and Mühlhausen in the Duchtlingen district.
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Steep but well-secured stone path to the castle ruins.
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It is worth a visit, entrance costs 5 euros
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Big, wild ruin with several paths, passages and some brickwork!
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Great photo opportunities at every corner and a super nice view
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Very crisp and quite demanding ascent, with holding aids attached to the critical passages.
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Quite an impressive facility. Compared to the ruins of the neighboring mountains, this complex looks spruced up, and there is also an entrance fee. Halfway up you can buy a drink or snack from the ticket kiosk.
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Beautiful rustic castle ruins - there is a small parking lot for hikers directly below, so you can be in the ruin in just a few minutes.
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The region features a variety of castle types, from ancient ruins on volcanic cones like Hohenkrähen Castle Ruins to high medieval ruins such as Altbodman ruins. You can also find historical sites like Frauenberg Monastery, which was built after an earlier castle burned down, and the well-preserved Mägdeberg Castle Ruins.
Yes, Schloss Langenstein in Orsingen-Nenzingen is notable for housing a carnival museum, offering a unique cultural experience beyond its historical significance.
Many castles in the region are situated on elevated terrain, providing excellent views. Hohenkrähen Castle Ruins offers a fantastic view from its volcanic cone, including sights of Hohentwiel Fortress Ruins, Mägdeberg Castle Ruins, and the western Lake Constance area. Altbodman ruins provides a great view over Lake Überlingen, and Frauenberg Monastery also offers views of the Altbodman ruins and the lake.
The Altbodman ruins are considered a great adventure for children, and there's even a bison enclosure nearby. Many castle ruins offer an engaging historical experience for families to explore together.
There are several hiking trails that lead to or around the castles. For example, you can find an easy loop trail around Schloss Langenstein and another easy loop to Heidenschlößle. The ascent to Hohenkrähen Castle Ruins is a crisp and demanding climb, rewarded with exciting ruins and views. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Orsingen-Nenzingen guide.
The Heidenschlößle is a medieval defensive castle, believed to date back to the 13th century. It served to protect the surrounding area and is now a recognized cultural heritage site. Visitors can explore its ruins, including a central keep, outer walls, and bastions, often by appointment or through guided tours.
The difficulty varies. The ascent to Hohenkrähen Castle Ruins is quite demanding and steep, with holding aids in critical passages. Other castle walks, like the loops around Schloss Langenstein or Heidenschlößle, are generally easier.
Hohentwiel Fortress Ruins is a huge and interesting site with great views. Be aware that tickets must be purchased at the bottom of the mountain, and good shoes are recommended due to potentially slippery cobblestones. It's advisable to check its current status, as it has been closed due to rockfall in the past.
Beyond hiking, you can find various outdoor activities in the region. There are numerous Road Cycling Routes around Orsingen-Nenzingen, offering scenic rides. You can also explore Running Trails around Orsingen-Nenzingen for a different way to experience the landscape.
Visitors appreciate the historical insights and panoramic views offered by the castles. The challenging ascent to Hohenkrähen Castle Ruins is often highlighted for its rewarding views and exciting ruins. The Altbodman ruins are loved for being a great adventure for children and offering fantastic views over Lake Überlingen.
Near Altbodman ruins, you can find the Versperstube Bodanwald, which is a place to stop for refreshments. While specific accommodations aren't listed for each castle, the general region of Orsingen-Nenzingen offers various options for dining and lodging.
The castles are generally accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the ruins. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter visits can offer a unique, often quieter, experience, though some paths might be more challenging due to weather conditions.


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