Top 20 Castles around Kail
Best castles around Kail are found in the municipality of Kail, located in the Cochem-Zell district of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. This region is nestled in the Eifel area with the Moselle valley to its south. Kail serves as a base for exploring numerous historical sites, including well-preserved castles. The area offers a rich historical and scenic experience for visitors.
Best castles around Kail
- The most popular castles is Eltz Castle, a castle that towers like a fairytale castle on a 129 meter high hill in the valley of Elz. This castle has never been conquered by force and has been continuously owned by the same family for centuries.
- Another must-see spot is View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem, a viewpoint offering views of the Imperial Castle Cochem. This summit castle dominates the town of Cochem on the Moselle River and served as a customs castle in the Middle Ages.
- Visitors also love View of Beilstein and Metternich Castle, a viewpoint featuring the Metternich Castle ruin. This site offers views over Beilstein and the Moselle, showcasing a blend of history and natural beauty.
- Kail is known for hilltop castles, summit castles, and castle ruins. The variety of castles in the area provides diverse historical and architectural exploration opportunities.
- The castles around Kail are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 6700 photos and over 6800 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Eltz Castle
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View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem
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The plant, which served as a customs castle in the Middle Ages, was probably built around 1100 or in the first half of the 12th century, according to the results of current castle research. After being destroyed in the 17th century, it was rebuilt by the Berlin merchant and later Secretary of Commerce Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené in the years 1868-77, according to the taste of the castle romance. Burg Cochem is thus a good example of a building designed in neo-Gothic style during the time of historicism. According to the monument protection law of Rhineland-Palatinate, it is a protected cultural monument and registered in the state's monument list. In addition, the plant is a protected cultural property according to the Hague Convention and marked with the blue-white protection mark.
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Beilstein
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View of Beilstein and Metternich Castle
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Franconian grave finds show Beilstein's settlement around 800 AD. The place had been a feudal possession of the Lords of Braunshorn since 1268. Under Johann von Braunshorn (1299–1346), Beilstein received city privileges from King Henry VII in 1309 and was fortified. A Jewish community has been documented since 1309, and its Jewish cemetery above the castle still exists today. The former parish church was founded in 1310. After the von Braunshorn family died out, the fief passed to the von Winneburg family in 1360. After Kurtrier took possession of Beilstein in 1488, the Imperial Counts of Metternich enfeoffed the rule of Winneburg and Beilstein in 1652. In 1689, Metternich Castle (“The Proud Walls”) was destroyed by French troops. A Carmelite monastery was founded in 1636 (abolished in 1803), and the foundation stone of the Carmelite monastery church was laid in 1691, which was completed in 1783. The townscape was created in the 17th and 18th centuries and has largely been preserved to this day. The rule of the Imperial Counts of Metternich ended in 1794 with the occupation by French revolutionary troops. From 1798 to 1814 the place belonged to the canton of Zell in the Rhine-Moselle department and was the main town of a Mairie. In 1815 the place was assigned to the Kingdom of Prussia at the Congress of Vienna and belonged to the Senheim mayor's office in the Zell district. It has been part of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate since 1946.
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View of Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Cochem)
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Beilstein "The Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle" One of the most beautiful towns on the Moselle, also known as the Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle. We Beilsteiners always strive to treat our guests warmly and kindly and to welcome them as friends when they return to visit us again and again, often for decades. Text / Source: Beilstein Mosel, Bachstr. 47, 56814 Beilstein https://beilstein-mosel.de/
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🏰Eltz Castle is a hilltop castle from the 12th century. It is located at 129 m above sea level in the Elz valley🌊. With its eight residential towers up to 35 meters high, its bay windows, roofs, half-timbering and spires, it is the epitome of a knight's castle for the spontaneous observer.⚔️ It sits majestically in a side valley of the Moselle near Mayen. This imposing sight even adorned the 500 DM note for several decades.
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Eltz Castle is located at a height of 129 meters as a hilltop castle on a rocky spur in the Elz Valley. It was built around 1157.
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History (for those who are interested :-) Franconian grave finds show Beilstein's settlement around 800 AD. The place had been a feudal possession of the Lords of Braunshorn since 1268. Under Johann von Braunshorn (1299–1346), Beilstein received city privileges from King Henry VII in 1309 and was fortified. A Jewish community has been documented since 1309, and its Jewish cemetery above the castle still exists today. The former parish church was founded in 1310. After the von Braunshorn family died out, the fief passed to the von Winneburg family in 1360. After Kurtrier took possession of Beilstein in 1488, the Imperial Counts of Metternich enfeoffed the rule of Winneburg and Beilstein in 1652. In 1689, Metternich Castle (“The Proud Walls”) was destroyed by French troops. A Carmelite monastery was founded in 1636 (abolished in 1803), and the foundation stone of the Carmelite monastery church was laid in 1691, which was completed in 1783. The townscape was created in the 17th and 18th centuries and has largely been preserved to this day. The rule of the Imperial Counts of Metternich ended in 1794 with the occupation by French revolutionary troops. From 1798 to 1814 the place belonged to the canton of Zell in the Rhine-Moselle department and was the main town of a Mairie. In 1815 the place was assigned to the Kingdom of Prussia at the Congress of Vienna and belonged to the Senheim mayor's office in the Zell district. It has been part of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate since 1946. Source: wikipedia
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No matter which side you approach Cochem from, the great cityscape is simply fascinating.
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Great view of the castle and Cochem from the bike path. For one of the most beautiful places, but totally overrun by river cruise ships...
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The reputation of the castle precedes it - it is worth seeing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to find around Kail?
The region around Kail, nestled in the Eifel and near the Moselle valley, offers a diverse range of historical fortifications. You can explore magnificent hilltop castles like Eltz Castle, prominent summit castles such as the Imperial Castle Cochem (visible from this viewpoint), and picturesque castle ruins like Metternich Castle near Beilstein. This variety provides rich historical and architectural exploration opportunities.
What makes Eltz Castle a must-visit attraction?
Eltz Castle is often described as a fairytale castle, uniquely situated on a 129-meter-high hill in the Elz Valley. It's remarkable for never having been conquered by force and has been continuously owned by the same family for over 800 years, ensuring its excellent preservation. Its distinctive architecture and rich history make it one of Germany's most beautiful castles.
Are there good viewpoints to see the castles and the surrounding landscape?
Yes, the area boasts several excellent viewpoints. For instance, the View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem offers breathtaking panoramas of the Imperial Castle Cochem and the Moselle River. Another popular spot is the View of Beilstein and Metternich Castle, which provides stunning vistas over the charming town of Beilstein and the Moselle valley, featuring the Metternich Castle ruin.
Can I combine a castle visit with outdoor activities like hiking or cycling?
Absolutely! The region around Kail and the Moselle Valley is perfect for combining historical exploration with outdoor adventures. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like those listed in Easy hikes around Kail, or more moderate routes in Hiking around Kail. For cyclists, there are scenic road cycling routes, such as those detailed in Road Cycling Routes around Kail, which often pass by or offer views of the castles.
Are the castles around Kail suitable for families?
Many of the attractions and viewpoints in the area are considered family-friendly. For example, Eltz Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life that can captivate children. Viewpoints like the View of Reichsburg Cochem and the View of Beilstein are also great for families to enjoy together, providing scenic spots for picnics and photos.
When is the best time of year to visit the castles around Kail?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for visiting the castles and exploring the Moselle Valley. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for walking and hiking, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be more crowded, especially at popular sites like Eltz Castle and Cochem.
Are there dog-friendly options for visiting castles or nearby trails?
While specific castle interiors might have restrictions, many outdoor areas, viewpoints, and surrounding trails are dog-friendly. For instance, the View of Reichsburg Cochem and the View of Beilstein are accessible with dogs. Additionally, many of the hiking trails around Kail, such as those found in the Hiking around Kail guide, welcome dogs, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion.
How much time should I allocate for visiting the castles?
The time needed varies depending on the castle. For a comprehensive visit to Eltz Castle, including the walk to the castle and a guided tour, you might want to allocate 2-3 hours. Visiting viewpoints like the View of Reichsburg Cochem or the View of Beilstein might take less time, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you wish to enjoy the views. If you plan to visit multiple sites or combine with hiking, a full day or even a weekend would be beneficial.
Are there places to eat or drink near the castles?
Yes, you'll find various options for refreshments. The charming town of Beilstein, for example, is known for its pubs, restaurants, and cafes, especially around its picturesque market square. Near major attractions like Cochem, there are also numerous establishments catering to visitors. Some castles might have their own cafes or restaurants on-site or nearby.
What is the significance of the Moselle River to the castles in the region?
The Moselle River plays a crucial role in the historical and scenic appeal of the castles. Many castles, such as the Imperial Castle Cochem (seen from this viewpoint) and Metternich Castle near Beilstein, are strategically perched above the river, originally serving as customs castles or defensive strongholds. The river not only provided a vital trade route but also created the stunning landscapes that make these castles so picturesque today.
What historical sites, beyond castles, can I explore near Kail?
Beyond the castles, the region offers other significant historical sites. The town of Beilstein itself is a listed monument, often called the 'Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle,' with its well-preserved historic center, half-timbered houses, and a former synagogue. The area also features ancient bridges like the Stone Bridge over the Elzbach, which has historical significance and offers scenic views.
Most popular attractions around Kail
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