Top 20 Castles around March
Castles around March offer a journey through history, with several notable structures providing insights into past eras. The region features a mix of well-preserved ruins and impressive towers, often situated on elevated positions. These sites provide opportunities for exploration and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can discover historical sites that blend with natural features, providing a unique experience.
Best castles around March
- The most popular castles is Schlossberg Tower, a viewpoint that offers expansive views all the way to France. This 33.27 meter high observation tower was built in 2002 on the Schlossberg.
- Another must-see spot is Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen), a historical site. Visitors can explore a large, largely accessible castle complex with many preserved sections.
- Visitors also love Zähringen Castle Tower, a beautifully restored ruin with informative panels. From the tower, there is a magnificent view of Freiburg and the Feldberg.
- March is known for castle ruins, historical sites, and observation towers. The area offers a variety of historical structures to see and explore, many providing viewpoints.
- The castles around March are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1600 upvotes and over 1300 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Schlossberg Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen)
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Schneeburg Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Built in the 13th century by the Lords of Hornberg, the castle was handed over to the fiefdom of the Monastery of St. Gallen in 1349. In return, Werner von Hornberg received the rule of Ehaben. The castle was abandoned before 1500 and thus fell into disrepair.
The ruins in the Ehaben district consist of the remains of the keep and a residential building. Overall, it is only 37 meters long and approx. 17 meters wide. The complex is surrounded by a wide moat. The four-story keep with two windows is on the north side. The former residential building in the south of the complex is divided into two parts and a stone surround can be seen in the courtyard instead of the old well.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Schneeburg Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
The building stock was secured in 1905 and partially reconstructed. The northwest corner is the best preserved with a height of about 13.50 meters. On the approximately 4 meter high, windowless ground floor (stable or storage room), a residential building with one window each is bricked up over two storeys. Unless it was created during the renovation in 1905, the remains of a wall above it could be the wall of the attic. The northern part is considered the main building, which housed the owner's residence and a hall. No statements can be made about the shape of the roof of the castle.
The probably unroofed courtyard in the middle part occupies the largest part of the castle. There, in place of the old well, there is a newly built stone enclosure, which was sometimes used as a hearth. The ring wall of the courtyard has now disappeared. Heiko Wagner assumes that the access to the castle, similar to today's path, is in its central to northern part on the east side.
New sandstone cornices have been built into the window openings of the south-facing, two-part building, which corresponds to what was found in fragments in the old well shaft. It may have been used for storage, as living quarters for servants and as a kitchen.
In the 1930s there were wooden viewing terraces and stairs to them on part of the walls.[15]#
In the summer of 2021, the State Office for the Preservation of Monuments was informed that a large stone from the northern foundation wall was in danger of breaking off, which could affect the preservation of the entire wall. As of February 2022, only precautionary measures had been taken.[16]
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Zähringen Castle Tower
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around March.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The tower is not open. According to a sign, keys for the door can be borrowed from the forest restaurant just below.
3
0
From the Schneeburg you have a wonderful view over Freiburg and the Vosges
5
0
It is about 1.5 km from the car park to the Schneeburg
2
0
It would be a shame if you didn't take the grandiose views from the ruins with you. You can walk up one side and down the other side.
2
0
Magnificent views from the tower.
3
0
The Schneeburg is a castle ruin at a height of 516 meters on the western foothills of the Schönberg. It is located between Uffhausen, Ehaben and the Freiburg district of St. Georgen. Built in the 13th century by the Lords of Hornberg, the castle was handed over to the fiefdom of the Monastery of St. Gallen in 1349. In return, Werner von Hornberg received the rule of Ehaben. The castle was abandoned before 1500 and thus fell into disrepair. The ruins in the Ehaben district consist of the remains of the keep and a residential building. Overall, it is only 37 meters long and approx. 17 meters wide. The complex is surrounded by a wide moat. The four-story keep with two windows is on the north side. The former residential building in the south of the complex is divided into two parts and a stone surround can be seen in the courtyard instead of the old well. Many hikers set out every year to visit the castle ruins, which offer a magnificent sight both then and now, and to enjoy the view of the valley and distant mountains. If you would like to avoid the strenuous climb, you have the option of driving to the Schönberg Hof inn below, thereby significantly shortening the route.
4
1
Freiburg im Breisgau (Alemannic Friburg im Brisgau,; abbreviated Freiburg i. Br. or Freiburg i. B.) is an independent city in Baden-Württemberg. From 1945 until the founding of the state of Baden-Württemberg on April 25, 1952, Freiburg im Breisgau was the state capital of the state of Baden. The southernmost city in Germany is the seat of the regional council of Freiburg as well as the regional association of the southern Upper Rhine and the district of Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald. It is almost completely surrounded by this district, to which it does not belong; as an independent city, Freiburg forms an urban district.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around March?
The March region offers a variety of historical structures, including impressive castle ruins, observation towers, and historical sites. You can find well-preserved sections at places like Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) and beautifully restored ruins such as Zähringen Castle Tower.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views?
Several castles and towers around March provide expansive views. Schlossberg Tower offers views all the way to France. From Zähringen Castle Tower, you can enjoy magnificent views of Freiburg and the Feldberg. Additionally, Schneeburg Ruins provides great vistas over the Rhine Valley to the Vosges and Freiburg.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near March?
Yes, Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) is noted as family-friendly. It's a large, largely accessible castle complex with many preserved sections, making it suitable for exploration by visitors of all ages. They also host regular events.
What historical insights can I gain from visiting these castles?
The castles and ruins around March offer a deep dive into the region's past. For instance, Hochburg Ruins (Emmendingen) dates back to the 12th century and played a significant role through the 17th century before its final destruction. Schneeburg Ruins, built in the 13th century, tells a story of medieval fiefdoms and eventual abandonment.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles around March?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views offered by the observation towers and castle ruins, with many noting the opportunity to see far across the landscape, sometimes even to France or the Vosges mountains. The preserved sections and informative panels at sites like Zähringen Castle Tower are also highly appreciated for their historical value and accessibility.
Can I combine a castle visit with outdoor activities?
Absolutely! The region around March offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, running routes, and even mountain hikes near these historical sites. Many castles, like Hochburg Ruins, are excellent starting points or destinations for a scenic walk.
Are there any easy walks or trails near the castles?
Yes, there are easy hiking options available. For example, the 'Old Oak Tree – Münstudsee loop from Neuershausener Mooswald' is an easy 3.6 km hike. The 'Neuershausen Soccer Field – Dreisam Riverside Cycle Path loop from GVV March-Umkirch' is another easy 3.8 km option. These can be found in the Hiking around March guide.
How accessible are the castle towers, and what should I expect?
Observation towers like Schlossberg Tower and Zähringen Castle Tower typically involve climbing stairs to reach the top. While the views are rewarding, visitors should be prepared for this. For Zähringen Castle Tower, the key can often be borrowed from the inn below the castle against submission of an identity card.
Are there any hidden gems among the castles near March?
Schneeburg Ruins could be considered a hidden gem. It's a smaller, 13th-century castle ruin offering beautiful walls with windowsills to rest and fantastic views over the Rhine Valley, Vosges, and Freiburg, providing a serene and less crowded experience.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around March?
While the guide data doesn't specify a 'best' time, visiting during milder weather allows for more comfortable exploration of the outdoor ruins and towers. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the panoramic views without the peak summer crowds.
Can I visit Lichteneck Castle?
Lichteneck Castle is generally only open for viewing after prior notification. You can often take a look through the castle gate, but for internal viewing appointments, it's best to check their official website for details.
What kind of natural features can I see from the castle viewpoints?
From the various viewpoints, you can observe diverse natural landscapes. Schlossberg Tower offers views stretching to France, while Zähringen Castle Tower provides vistas of the Feldberg. Schneeburg Ruins overlooks the Rhine Valley and the Vosges mountains, showcasing the region's varied topography.
Most popular routes around March
Most popular attractions around March
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around March:
