Best castles around Pfungen are found in a region characterized by its historical significance and varied landscape within the lower Töss Valley. Pfungen itself features the site of Multberg Castle, while the surrounding area offers a selection of historical structures. The canton of Zurich provides a backdrop of hills and valleys, with some castles situated above vineyards or on strategic elevations. This area combines historical exploration with opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
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
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Pfungen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Multberg rises southeast of the village of Pfungen in the lower Töss Valley. The summit plateau, measuring approximately 45 x 25 meters, is protected by ditches on the west and east sides, and the terrain drops steeply all around. According to archaeological findings, Multberg Castle was built around the middle of the 13th century. Construction appears to have been carried out under time pressure and was rather makeshift. Whether the castle ever served as a permanent residence is questionable. Its builders are believed to have been the Barons of Wart, who at that time also owned the neighboring castles of Pfungen and Wart. The original name of the castle is unknown. Its destruction occurred in the spring of 1309. After Rudolf III of Wart had actively participated in the assassination of King Albrecht I of Habsburg the previous year, Multberg, along with Wart, fell victim to the Habsburg campaign of revenge under Duke Leopold I of Austria. The chronicler Johannes von Winterthur reports that he saw two castles burning at that time: they must have been Wart and Multberg. It's a bit of a shame that there is no information plaque on site about the former castle and its history. https://www.burgenwelt.org/schweiz/multberg/object.php
5
0
Below the castle near the dormitory there are fountains with drinking water
0
0
Quite a lot of motorbikes and cars on the road on Saturdays! Still okay.
1
0
Exciting history about Hegi Castle, and the entire surrounding area is ideal for a tour by bike or on foot.
3
0
including barbecue area with great views over Rorbas/Freienstein/Embrach
1
0
For those interested in guided tours and local history, Hegi Castle is a great option, offering tours, a small restaurant, and a public barbecue area. Mörsburg Castle also houses a small museum, open from May to October, and features a cafe with an outdoor terrace.
Yes, the Freienstein Castle Ruins and Well, also known as Alten-Teufen Castle, offer a scenic location on a hill above a vineyard. You can explore the ruins and see the impressive 33.5-meter-deep heart-shaped well. The site is also suitable for a picnic.
The Multberg Castle Site in Pfungen is the location of a former hilltop castle built around the mid-13th century. While no wall remains are visible today, archaeological findings suggest it was constructed under pressure and destroyed in 1309 as part of a Habsburg revenge campaign. It offers a glimpse into medieval history and the strategic importance of the lower Töss Valley.
Wart Castle, built in 1889, is a Swiss heritage site of national significance and is noted for its resemblance to Neuschwanstein Castle. While it is not publicly accessible, its location on the southern slope of the Irchel mountain offers panoramic views stretching from Neftenbach over Winterthur to Pfungen, making it a significant point of interest in the historical landscape.
Several castles in the region are considered family-friendly. Hegi Castle offers guided tours and has a public barbecue area, perfect for a family outing. Mörsburg Castle, with its small museum and cafe, can also be an engaging visit for families.
The region around Pfungen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Pine Forest with Orchids – Multberg Castle Site loop' or the 'Wart Castle – Bicycle and pedestrian bridge loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Pfungen guide. There are also extensive Road Cycling Routes and MTB Trails around Pfungen, many of which pass by historical sites.
Yes, Hegi Castle has a small restaurant and bar operating from May to October. Mörsburg Castle also features a nice cafe with an outdoor terrace, open Wednesday to Saturday from 2 pm to 5 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.
The period from May to October is ideal, especially for castles like Mörsburg Castle, whose museum and cafe are open during these months. This timeframe generally offers pleasant weather for exploring ruins and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the surrounding areas.
Absolutely. From Mörsburg Castle, you can enjoy beautiful views, even up to Lake Constance from the top of its tower. Freienstein Castle Ruins and Well also offer a wonderful view over the entire valley from its accessible tower. Additionally, Wart Castle provides panoramic views of the lower Töss Valley.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. Many enjoy the scenic bike paths leading to castles like Wart Castle, the well-preserved structures and museums at places like Hegi Castle, and the impressive historical ruins such as the Freienstein Castle Ruins and Well. The opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside are also highly valued.
Yes, the region offers several circular routes that incorporate historical sites. For example, the 'Pine Forest with Orchids – Multberg Castle Site loop' is a moderate 11.2 km hike that includes the Multberg Castle Site. You can find more options in the Hiking around Pfungen guide.


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