Best castles around Todtmoos are found in the historic region of Todtmoos, first mentioned in 1267 and once part of the Habsburg dynasty. While Todtmoos itself features a former summer residence of Benedictine abbots, the surrounding Black Forest and Waldshut district contain several notable castle ruins. These historical fortifications offer insights into medieval history and often provide scenic views. The area is characterized by its natural landscape, making these sites popular for historical exploration.
Last updated: August 10, 2026
Highlight • Castle
Showing Translation
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Showing Translation
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
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Todtmoos
The Black Forest Crossing – From north to south in eight days
From the hills to the Rhine – hiking in the Southern Black Forest
Naturparke-Gravel-Crossing: bikepacking in Baden-Württemberg
Build your dream ride: Modular biking in the Southern Black Forest
Schluchtensteig-West | From Schluchsee to Wehr
Experience Germany's Black Forest glass blowing history up close
Nature Park Gravel Crossing from North to South – Baden-Württemberg
Autumn views on Genießerpfade and quality Tours in the Black Forest
Castles, ghosts and knights – hike in Germany’s Black Forest pleasure trails
Discover nature through play – adventure trails for kids in the Upper Black Forest
On our hike, we made a detour to the observation tower and enjoyed the view
0
0
The castle was built between 1570 and 1574 by Hans Jakob von Schönau and his son Hans Rudolf. It served as the residence of the noble family, later as an official residence and as a mill. In 1901 it became the property of the paper manufacturer Lenz, who sold it to the town of Wehr in 1971. Extensively renovated from 1975 to 1977, it now serves the town administration. The town gallery is located on the top floor. The history of the Lords of Schönau is documented in the corridors of the Old Castle.
0
0
The Werrach castle ruins, also known as Schlössle, are located on a rocky spur at the entrance to the Hotzenwald. It is first mentioned in 1098. In the first half of the 13th century, it came into the possession of the Lords of Klingen. The minnesinger Walther von Klingen signed various documents at Werrach Castle. It was located on the border of the sphere of influence of the Bishops of Basel and the Habsburgs. In 1272, Werrach Castle was taken by Rudolf von Habsburg and integrated, along with the Wehratal valley, into the Habsburg dominion. Until the beginning of the 16th century, the Lords of Schönau resided at Werrach Castle as vassals of the Habsburgs. Later, the structure was left to decay. Since the end of the 19th century, the castle ruins have been gradually prepared for visitors by the Schwarzwaldverein. At Werrach Castle, there is an information pavilion on the town's history, a bronze plaque on the history of the ruins, and the "Sagenpfad am Schlössle" (legend trail). From the pavilion, you can enjoy an excellent view of Wehr. Source: https://www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info/attraktionen/burgruine-werrach-schloessle-38a8c87f1e
0
0
Built in the twelfth century, the massive walls, up to six meters high, are still impressive today. A beautiful, scenic spot for a break.
1
0
The ruins are the Werrach castle ruins, but in Wehr they are called "Schlössle". From the pavilion you can enjoy an excellent view of Weir.
5
0
A great place even in winter!
3
0
Wonderful view from the tower of the Bärenfels castle ruins to Wehr and towards the reservoir, worthwhile in every season.
2
0
In the morning it's empty. In the afternoon many people come. Also, a sports plane takes off every 5 minutes. It's probably quieter in FFM now than here.
3
1
Around Todtmoos, you'll primarily find fascinating castle ruins that offer a glimpse into medieval history. While Todtmoos itself has a former summer residence of Benedictine abbots, the surrounding Black Forest and Waldshut district are home to sites like the 12th-century Werrach Castle Ruins and the Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint. You can also visit the Old Castle of the Lords of Schönau, which is a well-preserved historical residence now housing town administration and a gallery.
For exceptional panoramic views, head to the Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint. Its keep provides extensive vistas in all directions, overlooking the Wehratal, Dinkelberg, Hotzenwald, and even reaching the Swiss Jura and the Alps.
Many of the castle ruins, such as Werrach Castle Ruins and Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint, are located within hiking areas, making them suitable for families who enjoy walking and exploring. The Old Castle of the Lords of Schönau is also a great option, as it's wheelchair accessible and houses a town gallery, offering a more accessible historical experience.
These castles offer rich historical insights into the region's past. For instance, the Werrach Castle Ruins date back to the 12th century and were once part of the Habsburg dominion, with figures like minstrel Walther von Klingen associated with it. The Old Castle of the Lords of Schönau, built in the 16th century, showcases the history of a noble family and now serves as a civic building, with its corridors documenting the Lords of Schönau.
Yes, the castle ruins are often integrated into scenic hiking areas. The Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint, for example, is situated in a great hiking region with significant elevation changes. You can find many hiking opportunities around Todtmoos, including routes like the 'Todtmoos Spürnase trail' or the 'Todtmoos waterfalls – Raven Gorge loop'. For more details on hiking routes, visit our guide on Hiking around Todtmoos.
Absolutely. The region around Todtmoos is ideal for combining castle visits with various outdoor activities. Besides hiking, you can explore mountain biking trails or running routes. Check out our guides for MTB Trails around Todtmoos and Running Trails around Todtmoos to plan your adventure.
The Werrach Castle Ruins are particularly notable for their impressive remaining structures. Dating back to the 12th century, these ruins still feature massive walls, some reaching up to six meters high, providing a strong sense of its medieval grandeur.
Yes, the Old Castle of the Lords of Schönau is noted as being wheelchair accessible. It has been extensively renovated and now serves as the town administration, making it a convenient and accessible historical site to visit.
The Turmhölzle Castle Ruins are the remnants of a high-medieval spur castle, likely built in the 12th century. While historical data is limited, its masonry suggests its age, and it's believed to have served to secure monastic rulership, possibly under the name "Fernegg" as recorded in 15th-century inventories of St. Blasien Monastery.
Visitors frequently appreciate the combination of historical exploration and natural beauty. Many enjoy the scenic views from sites like Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint and the opportunity for a peaceful break at places like Werrach Castle Ruins. The komoot community has shared 114 photos and given 120 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and historical interest of these sites.
Yes, the Werrach Castle Ruins are described as a beautiful and promising place for a break, offering good views. Similarly, the Bärenfels Castle Ruins and Viewpoint is noted as a nice spot for grilling and enjoying a magnificent view, making it perfect for a picnic.


Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Todtmoos: