Top 14 Castles around Olbernhau
Best castles around Olbernhau offer a journey through the region's rich history in the German state of Saxony. The area is characterized by its scenic landscapes, including the Flöha Valley, and historic settlements. These sites provide insights into medieval life, regional folklore, and architectural evolution. Visitors can explore various historical structures, from well-preserved castles to ancient ruins, set within the natural beauty of the Ore Mountains.
Best castles around Olbernhau
- The most popular castles is Purschenstein Castle, a castle that operates as a hotel, with accessible outdoor areas and a restaurant. This site is recognized as one of the oldest castles in Saxony, dating back to around 1253.
- Another must-see spot is Rauenstein Castle, a castle complex above the Flöha river. Visitors can view the castle from the outside, and it is occasionally open for events and weddings.
- Visitors also love Jezeří Castle, a historical site built between 1363 and 1365. This castle has a dramatic history, including periods as a Baroque palace and a hunting lodge, and is now publicly accessible externally.
- Olbernhau is known for its diverse historical structures, including medieval castles, castle ruins, and manor houses. The region offers a variety of historical sites to explore, from well-preserved buildings to those with significant historical narratives.
- The castles around Olbernhau are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 520 upvotes and more than 380 photos shared.
Last updated: August 16, 2026
Purschenstein Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Rauenstein Castle
Highlight • Castle
Update June 20, 2022: after the owner's death, the castle was sold and is open to the public for events, weddings, etc.
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
Niederlauterstein Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Source: Wikipedia
the video for the tour: cnoops.de/aiovg_videos/burgruine-umd-victoria-stolln-niederlauterstein-9-november-2021
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Niederforchheim Manor
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Niederforchheim Manor
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Olbernhau.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Olbernhau
Kammweg Erzgebirge – Border adventure along the Ridgeway
3 days in the countryside – Easter Ore Mountains and Eger Valley by road bike
‘Good luck’ in the hiking paradise of the Ore Mountains
History meets nature – Erzgebirge-Vogtland Ridge Trail
Erzgebirge: On the tracks of the Stoneman-Miriquidi
Wandertouren - Für kleine Wanderfreunde
Wandertouren - Gipfelglück
BLOCKLINE – Dein Bike-Abenteuer im Erzgebirge
Hiking around Olbernhau
Cycling around Olbernhau
Other adventures around Olbernhau
Tips from the Community
Snack bar with super delicious food, inexpensive, fast, friendly staff
0
0
Forchheim Castle was built in 1558 for Christoph von Berbisdorf. The city of Chemnitz acquired the castle in 1912, as it did with other manors and properties in the area. It needed large areas to build the Saidenbach Dam. Construction was delayed until well after the end of the First World War. The castle was used by the forestry administration and as a children's convalescent home. It later served as the hunting lodge of the notorious Martin Mutschmann. From 1953, Niederforchheim Castle was used as a kindergarten. The outbuildings were demolished in the 1970s. The kindergarten moved out in 1999. The previous year, the castle was purchased privately. Since then, the castle has been renovated and surrounded by a high wall. Source:https://sachsens-schloesser.de/pockau-lengefeld-schloss-forchheim/
0
0
Forchheim is located in the central Erzgebirge. The town on the B101 has a rather small castle, which can be seen from the road leading past. The manor house - also known as the "lower manor house" - was built in the 16th century. It is a simple and plain building in the Renaissance style. The new owner had a wall built around the complex in recent years. Even if you can't visit it, it's worth breaking your journey here and walking along the nature trail from the castle towards the Saidenbachtalsperre. Source: https://www.ins-erzgebirge.de/Schloss-Forchheim
1
0
The location, appearance and the fact that the road leads through a tunnel in the rock below the castle never cease to fascinate.
2
0
The Lauterstein, like the other castles in the area, the Neidberg, the Liebenstein and the nameless complex at Nonnenfelsen, were local bases for the expansion of the country in the 12th and 13th centuries. Century, which was carried here by the Reich Ministerials of the Pleißenland. The colonizers of the area around Zöblitz/Niederlauterstein were the Lords of Erdmannsdorf, whose relative Werner built Neidberg Castle on the Pockau (on the Lion's Head Rock) in the 12th century. In the 13th century, probably before the middle of the century, the area was included in the imperial rule of Schellenberg. Source: display board
13
0
The stone castle complex was the center of power and served to protect the medieval trade and pass road from Leipzig over the Ore Mountains to Prague. Archaeological investigations in the 1970s proved that it was created in the second half of the 12th century. It was first mentioned in a document in 1304. After the Schellenberg feud and the loss of power by the lords of Schellenberg (today Augustusburg), Margrave Frederick the Freed of Meissen enfeoffed the Burgrave Albrecht von Altenburg and Otto von Leisnig with Lauterstein Castle and the town of Zcobelin (Zöblitz). At that time the lords of Schellenberg were in charge of the castle.
6
0
Eye-catcher from afar. After the owner died, the new owner wants to make the facility accessible to the public. A lot of construction is currently underway and the first events have already taken place. It will be exciting...
14
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I visit in the Olbernhau region?
The Olbernhau region offers a variety of historical castles. Notable sites include Purschenstein Castle, one of Saxony's oldest, and Rauenstein Castle, situated above the Flöha river. You can also explore the dramatic history of Jezeří Castle, or the medieval Scharfenstein Castle, known for its regional folklore and museums.
Are there any castles with museums or special exhibitions?
Yes, Scharfenstein Castle houses a Christmas and Toy Museum, offering insights into regional folk art, nutcrackers, and traditional craftsmen. The former Olbernhau Manor, located in the town center, has been converted into the Museum Olbernhau, showcasing the town's history.
Which castles offer a glimpse into medieval life?
Scharfenstein Castle is an excellent choice for experiencing medieval life. It features an outdoor medieval village with wooden huts, a knight's course, and a fire pit, where adventure days for families are held from spring to autumn. Its authentic architecture also showcases life from the medieval 'primal castles'.
Can I stay overnight in a castle near Olbernhau?
Yes, Purschenstein Castle in Neuhausen has been transformed into a 4-star castle hotel. While the interior is primarily for guests, the outdoor areas are accessible to the public, and it also features the exclusive 'Remise' restaurant.
Are there any castle ruins to explore in the area?
Yes, the Niederlauterstein Castle Ruins are a significant historical site. This medieval hilltop castle has been a ruin since the Thirty Years' War, offering a fascinating place for exploration and a glimpse into the region's past.
What is the history behind Jezeří Castle?
Jezeří Castle has a dramatic history, dating back to 1363. It was once owned by Kunz von Kauffungen, known for kidnapping Saxon princes, and later became a Baroque palace. Despite being destroyed during the Thirty Years' War and facing threats from brown coal mining, it was saved by a citizens' initiative and is now publicly accessible externally, with interior viewings on special dates.
Which castles are suitable for families with children?
Scharfenstein Castle is ideal for families, offering a Christmas and Toy Museum, interactive exhibitions, and a medieval village with adventure days. Niederforchheim Manor also serves as an entrance to a nature trail, providing outdoor activities for families.
Are there hiking or walking trails around the castles?
Yes, the region around Olbernhau offers numerous hiking and walking opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the 'Lauterstein Castle Ruins – Saigerhütte Olbernhau-Grünthal loop' which is a moderate MTB trail, or various easy hikes around Olbernhau. You can explore more options on the Easy hikes around Olbernhau guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles?
Beyond castle visits, the area provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various MTB Trails around Olbernhau, including routes near reservoirs. There are also Running Trails around Olbernhau and Easy hikes around Olbernhau, many of which pass by or offer views of historical sites.
Are there castles with good viewpoints?
Yes, Rauenstein Castle is known for its location above the Flöha river, offering scenic views. The Niederlauterstein Castle Ruins also provide a viewpoint over the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in the Erzgebirge?
The castles in the Erzgebirge can be visited year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor areas and surrounding nature. Summer is ideal for family adventure days at places like Scharfenstein. Even in winter, the region's castles, especially those with indoor museums, provide a cozy historical experience.
Are any castles in the region wheelchair accessible?
Due to their historical nature, many castles in the region may have limited wheelchair accessibility, especially within older structures or ruins. However, the outdoor areas of Purschenstein Castle, which operates as a hotel, are generally accessible. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details directly with each castle before your visit.
Can I bring my dog to the castle ruins?
Generally, castle ruins like Niederlauterstein Castle Ruins are more accommodating for dogs in their outdoor areas, often requiring them to be on a leash. For other castles, especially those with museums or operating as hotels, it's best to verify their specific pet policies beforehand.
How long should I plan for a visit to a castle like Scharfenstein?
For a comprehensive visit to Scharfenstein Castle, including its Christmas and Toy Museum, interactive exhibitions, and the medieval village, you should plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you participate in special events or adventure days, your visit could extend for half a day or more.
Most popular routes around Olbernhau
Most popular attractions around Olbernhau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Olbernhau:
