Top 20 Castles around Mayen
Best castles around Mayen are situated in the Eifel region, a landscape known for its volcanic origins and historical depth. The city of Mayen features the Genovevaburg, a prominent landmark on a rocky outcrop above the market square. Nearby, Bürresheim Castle stands as a well-preserved medieval fortress overlooking the Nette river. This area offers a combination of natural beauty and centuries of architectural history.
Best castles around Mayen
- The most popular castles is Elzbach Waterfall at the Pyrmonter Mill, a waterfall that offers an impressive backdrop with two waterfalls rushing under a bridge, with a mill and a castle in the background. It provides a great photo opportunity where the Elz river works on the slate plateau.
- Another must-see spot is Monreal Historic Old Town, a historical site with winding alleys and historic half-timbered houses. Visitors can explore the village nestled in the Elzbachtal, with small bridges connecting the riverbanks and offering views of the half-timbered backdrop.
- Visitors also love Löwenburg Ruins, Monreal, a castle ruin with a gigantic view of Monreal. The castle, built in 1229, features a keep that is still 25 meters high, offering a fantastic view of the Eifel region.
- Mayen is known for its medieval fortresses, castle ruins, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from well-preserved structures to ancient ruins with panoramic views.
- The castles around Mayen are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1200 upvotes and more than 2100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Monreal Historic Old Town
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Löwenburg Ruins, Monreal
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Elzbach Waterfall at the Pyrmonter Mill
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Pyrmont Castle
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Philippsburg Castle Ruins
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Pyrmont Castle was first mentioned in writing in 1225. The more than 800-year-old keep still significantly shapes the overall appearance of the complex today. In its current form, the castle combines architectural elements from three central epochs of European cultural history. Currently (as of 24.04.2026) unfortunately still closed.
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Unfortunately, Pyrmont Castle is only open on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm.
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A great and impressive backdrop, as the two waterfalls rush under the bridge, with the mill and the castle in the background.
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The Löwenburg ruins in Monreal were built around 1229 as a hilltop castle on a rocky outcrop by Count Hermann III of Virneburg on land owned by his brother Philipp, who then transferred his rights to it to his brother Hermann. The Philippsburg ruins were built shortly afterwards by Count Philipp.
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The Lion Castle The Löwenburg above the half-timbered village of Monreal is a so-called spur castle and was first mentioned in a document in 1229. Count Hermann III von Virneburg is considered to be the builder of the Löwenburg. According to tradition, he is said to have built the complex on the property of his brother Philipp following a division agreement. However, the resulting disputes between the brothers were later resolved and Philip assigned his rights to the region to his brother. Today, large parts of the Löwenburg are still preserved, which give a good impression of how stately the castle once looked. First and foremost, the remains of the 25 meter high keep with its three meter thick walls are visible from afar. The high entrance to the imposing keep faces towards the valley and is therefore strategically located on the side facing away from the enemy. The tower is also freely accessible as a viewing tower.
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The Philippsburg The Philippsburg in Monreal was also built in the 13th century. The Philippsburg was given the nickname "Rech" (deer) in the local dialect due to its smaller size compared to the Löwenburg. There are two different theories about its origins: On the one hand, the Philippsburg was built as an outbuilding or outer structure of the Löwenburg, or on the other hand, it was built as Philip's "response" to the unauthorized construction of the Löwenburg by his brother. Some substantial wall remains of the Philippsburg have also been preserved - including the northwest tower and the restored south wall - which give a good impression of the original structure.
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Very beautiful bridge over the Elzbach in Monreal. The bridge is the middle of three historic stone bridges in the town. On the bridge is the impressive sight from the 15th century, the Lion Monument. The four lions carved in basalt are among the most important monuments of their kind in the Rhineland due to their uniqueness. On the other side of the bridge is the statue of John of Nepomuk, who also gave the bridge its name "John's Bridge". Beautiful!
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A very beautiful castle that blends perfectly into the landscape and offers a great photo opportunity from many spots along the hiking trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main castles to visit in and around Mayen?
In Mayen itself, the Genovevaburg is a prominent landmark, housing the Eifelmuseum and a slate mine. Nearby, Pyrmont Castle and Bürresheim Castle are notable for their historical preservation and picturesque settings. The Monreal area also features the impressive Löwenburg Ruins and Philippsburg Castle Ruins.
Are there family-friendly activities at the castles around Mayen?
Yes, several castles offer family-friendly experiences. The Genovevaburg in Mayen houses the Eifelmuseum and the German Slate Mine, with a 340-meter-long tunnel system that can be explored. The Löwenburg Ruins and Pyrmont Castle are also listed as family-friendly highlights, offering historical exploration and scenic views.
What unique historical features can I find at the castles near Mayen?
Bürresheim Castle stands out as one of the few castles in the Eifel region that has never been destroyed, offering authentic interiors and a 12th-century keep. The Genovevaburg in Mayen has a rich history of sieges and reconstructions, and its underground slate mine served as an air-raid bunker during WWII. The Löwenburg Ruins in Monreal, built in 1229, still features a 25-meter-high keep.
When is the best time of year to visit the castles around Mayen?
The summer months are particularly vibrant, as the courtyard of the Genovevaburg hosts the Mayen Castle Festival (Burgfestspiele Mayen). Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor castle grounds and surrounding hiking trails, with autumn providing scenic foliage.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Mayen?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, the 'Path to Eiterbachweiher – View of Bürresheim Castle loop' is a moderate route that allows you to see Bürresheim Castle. You can find more hiking options and detailed routes in the Hiking around Mayen guide.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles?
Many castles offer expansive and picturesque views. The Genovevaburg provides panoramic views of Mayen and the surrounding landscape from its elevated position. From the Löwenburg Ruins, you get a fantastic view of Monreal and the Eifel region. Bürresheim Castle, dramatically situated above the Nette river, also offers stunning visual experiences.
Can I visit the castles with my dog?
The Löwenburg Ruins in Monreal is listed as dog-friendly, making it a good option for visitors with pets. For other castles, it's advisable to check specific access rules beforehand, especially for indoor areas.
What is there to see in Monreal besides the castles?
Monreal Historic Old Town is a highlight itself, known for its winding alleys, historic half-timbered houses, and the small Elzbach river flowing through the town. It's a picturesque village nestled in the Elzbachtal, with small bridges connecting the riverbanks and offering charming views.
Are there any waterfalls near the castles?
Yes, the Elzbach Waterfall at the Pyrmonter Mill is a notable natural attraction. It offers an impressive backdrop with two waterfalls rushing under a bridge, with a mill and a castle in the background, providing a great photo opportunity.
What are the options for cycling or mountain biking near the castles?
The area around Mayen offers various routes for cycling and mountain biking. For mountain biking, you can explore routes like the 'View of Bürresheim Castle – Vulkanpark Climbing Forest loop'. More detailed routes and options can be found in the MTB Trails around Mayen guide.
What is the significance of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genovevaburg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Genovevaburg</a> in Mayen?
The Genovevaburg is a late Gothic castle built in 1280, serving as a prominent landmark for Mayen. It has witnessed centuries of regional events, including destruction by French troops and subsequent reconstructions. Today, it houses the Eifelmuseum and the German Slate Mine, offering insights into the region's history and geology.
Are there any castles that appeared in movies?
Yes, Bürresheim Castle gained international recognition for its appearance as 'Brunwald Castle' in the film 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade'.
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