Top 15 Castles around Saxler
Castles around Saxler offer a journey into the region's historical past, nestled within the scenic Eifel Vulkaneifel landscape. This area, characterized by its volcanic origins, provides diverse hiking terrain and numerous historical sites. The Saxler location serves as a base for exploring medieval fortifications, many of which are situated along river valleys or atop volcanic hills. Visitors can discover a variety of castles, often accessible via hiking trails, combining cultural heritage with outdoor activity.
Best castles around Saxler
- The most…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Manderscheid Upper Castle
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Manderscheid Lower Castle
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Upper Castle of Ulmen
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View of Manderscheid Castles from Belvedere
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View of Manderscheid's castles from the Burgenstieg
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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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The Upper Castle and the Lower Castle rise up in the Lieser valley near Manderscheid. The Upper Castle was once a state castle of the Archbishops of Trier, while the Lower Castle, around 150 years younger, served as the residence of the Lords of Manderscheid, who lived there as representatives of the Counts of Luxembourg.
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The Manderscheid Castle Trail with Rittersteig is around 6 kilometers long and is one of the partner trails of the Eifelsteig in the Volcanic Eifel. It leads through Manderscheid and later up to the "Belvedere" lookout point. From here you have a great view of the "Manderscheid Castles" and Manderscheid, which lies beyond the Liesertal.
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From the Burgenstieg you have a beautiful view of the Niederburg and parts of the via ferrata
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We have been there several times and it is always an experience.
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From the Niederburg via the tournament meadow to the Oberburg. There you have a view of the Niederburg. Gradweg past the Kaisertempelchen! Very beautiful! Definitely recommended to be included in a hike.
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Here it is worth walking the Burgensteig
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Just awesome being so close to the place and with a half day walk around and visit. For a nice stop, first check whether the castle café opposite is open; but a stop in Manderscheid is also possible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to find around Saxler?
The Saxler region, nestled in the Eifel Vulkaneifel, features a mix of medieval castle ruins and some better-preserved fortifications. Many are strategically located on volcanic hills or along river valleys, offering both historical insights and scenic views.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Saxler?
Yes, several castles in the area are suitable for families. Manderscheid Lower Castle and the Upper Castle of Ulmen are noted as family-friendly. The area around the Manderscheid Castles also has meadows perfect for picnics.
Can I bring my dog to the castles in the Saxler area?
Yes, Manderscheid Lower Castle explicitly allows dogs. Many outdoor trails around the castles are also dog-friendly, making it possible to explore with your canine companion.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a castle visit?
The Eifel Vulkaneifel region is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes that often pass by or near these historical sites. For example, a tour around the Ulmener Maar can be combined with a visit to the Upper Castle of Ulmen.
Are there hiking trails that connect to the castles?
Yes, the castles are often integrated into hiking routes. The Eifelsteig, for instance, passes through the Manderscheid area, offering paths between the two Manderscheid castles. Many castles, like Manderscheid Upper Castle, are accessible via trails.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Saxler?
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring both the castles and the surrounding hiking trails. Summer is also popular, especially for events like the castle festival at the Tournament Meadow Below Oberburg. Winter visits can be picturesque, but some castle interiors or paths might be closed or less accessible due to weather.
Are there any castles with good viewpoints?
Absolutely. Manderscheid Upper Castle offers a great view of the Lower Castle and the Liesertal. From the Upper Castle of Ulmen, you have a beautiful view of Ulmen and its maar. The View of the Manderscheid Castles highlight is specifically dedicated to a scenic vantage point.
How long does it typically take to visit a castle?
The duration varies. For ruins like Manderscheid Upper Castle, a quick exploration might take 30-60 minutes. For more preserved sites like Manderscheid Lower Castle, especially if you climb the tower and read the explanatory panels, allow 1-2 hours. Combining a visit with a hike will naturally extend the time.
Is parking available at the castles?
Parking availability varies by castle. Many castles, especially those popular with hikers, have designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check specific castle information before your visit, though generally, you'll find options within walking distance.
What historical significance do the Manderscheid Castles hold?
The two Manderscheid castles, Upper and Lower, were central to the conflict between the Electorate of Trier and the Duchy of Luxembourg in the Middle Ages. The Upper Castle was a state castle of the Archbishops of Trier, while the Lower Castle served as the residence for the Lords of Manderscheid, representing the Counts of Luxembourg.
Are there any special events at the castles?
Yes, some castles host events. The Upper Castle of Ulmen is known for a nice Christmas market in winter and a medieval festival in summer. The Tournament Meadow Below Oberburg hosts a castle festival with jousting tournaments on the last weekend of August.
What natural features can I see near the castles?
The castles are set within the volcanic landscape of the Eifel Vulkaneifel. You can expect to see maars (volcanic lakes) like the Ulmener Maar near the Upper Castle of Ulmen, and the scenic Lieser river valley, which separates the Manderscheid castles. The region is characterized by its diverse volcanic terrain.
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