Top 6 Castles around Steineberg
Best castles around Steineberg are located in the Volcanic Eifel region, an area known for its unique volcanic landscape, including maars and basalt cones. This distinctive natural setting provides a backdrop for historical sites. Visitors can explore 6 castles, many of which offer views over the surrounding natural features. These historical structures contribute a cultural dimension to the region's outdoor activities.
Best castles around Steineberg
- The most popular castles is View of Ulmen, Ulmen Castle and the Ulmener Maar,…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
Upper Castle of Ulmen
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View of Ulmen, Ulmen Castle and the Ulmener Maar
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Geisenburg Ruins
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Forum Daun Tourist Information and Pillory
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Eifelsteig Stage 11: Lieser Trail and Manderscheid Castle View
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Idyllic location with high geological information value regarding Eifel volcanism.
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One of the youngest maars in the Eifel region nestles picturesquely against the small town of Ulmen with its castle ruins and church right on the shore - idyllic and simply beautiful!
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The lower castle has completely disappeared. You can still see the beginning of the ring that connected the lower castle and the Ulmen city wall, a two-story outer wall of the palace, as well as a cistern and some foundation walls of other buildings. The old part of Ulmen Castle was built around 1074 AD and likely rests on the remains of a Roman settlement. In the Middle Ages, Ulmen Castle was further expanded and divided into the upper castle, whose remains of the walls still exist, and the lower castle, which extended to the banks of the maar river. Two knightly families lived in the castle, which is believed to have never been attacked or destroyed until 1673 due to its size. Only the Sun King's troops succeeded. It was rebuilt, but fell again in 1689 during the War of the Succession. However, Ulmen Castle was also rebuilt this time, with only the city wall being abandoned. With the invasion of Napoleon's soldiers, Ulmen also became French and later Prussian. The empty castle, whose last descendant died in 1801, was auctioned to a merchant from Cochem, who sold it as a quarry. When a devastating fire burned Ulmen to the ground in the 19th century, the residents of Ulmen rebuilt their houses with stones from the castle. That's why you can still see a coat of arms on some of the stables today. It wasn't until the early twentieth century that Ulmen Castle was declared a listed building and became the property of the municipality of Ulmen. The castle is always freely accessible.
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Here is a nice rest area with a view of the Ulmener Maar.
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Strenuous but beautiful next to the babbling brook
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Here you can relax with a great view of the Ulmener Maar
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The Ulmener Maar is 420 meters high, covers 5.5 hectares, is up to 37 meters deep and is surrounded by a 20-meter-high wall made of tuff. At 11,000 years old, it is the youngest maar in the Eifel.
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Good seat with a view of the maar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly castles around Steineberg?
Yes, several castles and viewpoints in the region are suitable for families. For instance, the Upper Castle of Ulmen is a castle ruin that offers a great view and is part of a recommended tour around the Ulmener Maar, which is enjoyable for all ages. The View of Ulmen Old Town and St. Matthias Church also provides a beautiful, accessible perspective over the Maar and the old town.
What kind of walks can I find near the castles in the Steineberg area?
You can find a variety of walks, including easy and circular routes. Many castles, like the Upper Castle of Ulmen, are integrated into scenic trails around natural features like the Ulmener Maar. For more options, you can explore the hiking routes around Steineberg, which include trails like the 'Steineberger Ley – Celtic Sacrificial Stone loop' which is rated as easy.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Steineberg?
The castles around Steineberg are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the ruins and surrounding nature, with autumn providing a 'wonderful setting' for hikes, as noted by visitors to the View of Ulmen Old Town. In winter, the Upper Castle of Ulmen even hosts a Christmas market, offering a unique seasonal experience.
Are there any castle hotels in the Steineberg region?
Yes, the region features castle hotels. The Romantik Castle Hotel Kurfürstliches Amtshaus Daun is a notable example. This historic building, once an electoral hunting lodge, has been transformed into a first-class hotel offering a blend of historic furnishings and modern comforts, including a wellness oasis.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the castles?
The Volcanic Eifel region offers numerous outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'HeimatSpur Keltenrundweg' or 'Maiden Pond loop' from the hiking guide for Steineberg. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the 'Ulmener Maar Tunnel loop' available in the cycling guide. Many castles are situated amidst this volcanic landscape, making them ideal starting points for exploration.
Can I find viewpoints that offer scenic views of the castles and the surrounding landscape?
Absolutely. The View of Ulmen Old Town and St. Matthias Church is a prime example, offering a fantastic perspective over the Maar, Ulmen, the castle, and St. Matthias Church. Similarly, the Upper Castle of Ulmen ruins provide a beautiful view of Ulmen to the south-west.
How long should I plan for a visit to the castles around Steineberg?
The duration of your visit depends on how many castles you wish to see and if you plan to combine it with other activities. A tour around the Ulmener Maar and the Upper Castle of Ulmen can take a few hours. If you're exploring multiple sites or engaging in hiking/cycling, a full day or even a weekend would allow for a more comprehensive experience of the region's historical and natural beauty.
Are there any cultural or historical information points near the castles?
Yes, the Forum Daun Tourist Information and Pillory serves as a key cultural and social meeting point in Daun. Here, you can find information on local events, hiking opportunities, and learn about the historical pillory located on site, providing context to the region's past.
What makes the castles around Steineberg unique?
The castles in this region are unique due to their integration into the Volcanic Eifel's distinctive landscape. Many are castle ruins situated on basalt cones or overlooking maars, offering a blend of historical architecture and dramatic natural scenery. This volcanic backdrop provides a unique setting not commonly found with other European castles.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in the Steineberg area?
Visitors frequently appreciate the scenic views and the opportunity to combine history with nature. The 'beautiful view' from the Upper Castle of Ulmen and the 'fantastic view' from the View of Ulmen Old Town are often highlighted. The integration of castles with hiking trails around maars also receives positive feedback, making for a rewarding outdoor experience.
Are there options for food and drink near the castles?
While specific cafes and pubs directly adjacent to every ruin are not guaranteed, the town of Daun, home to the Forum Daun and the Romantik Castle Hotel Kurfürstliches Amthaus Daun, offers dining options. The castle hotel itself provides a restaurant experience. For other castles, nearby towns like Ulmen will have local establishments.
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