Top 5 Castles around Borstorf
Castles near Borstorf Germany offer a glimpse into the region's medieval past, despite the absence of original structures within the municipality itself. The area around Borstorf, located in Schleswig-Holstein, is characterized by rural landscapes and natural beauty. Visitors can explore historical sites around Borstorf that include castle ruins and manor houses. The surrounding region provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Best castles around Borstorf
- The most popular castles is Wotersen Castle, a castle that is a bright yellow manor house surrounded by ancient trees and manicured meadows. It is known for its history and as a filming location for a TV series.
- Another must-see spot is Burg Linau Ruins, a historical site featuring the remains of a medieval castle. Visitors can expect to see attempts at reconstructing the castle's round tower with large field stones.
- Visitors also love Franzosenschanze War Memorial, a man-made monument that is the remains of a medieval castle used by French troops in 1813. The wall is still well preserved, showing its original structure and division.
- Borstorf is known for castle ruins, historical sites, and manor houses. The region offers a variety of historical structures to explore, ranging from partially reconstructed ruins to well-preserved estates.
- The castles around Borstorf are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 photos and over 600 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Wotersen Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Franzosenschanze War Memorial
Highlight • Monument
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
Linau Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
The access was unfortunately closed for a long time due to extensive restoration work
and thus also the path to the Billequelle.
Now (2023) the path has been open again for some time.
In the past, nothing of a castle could be seen except the hill and a few large stones - now attempts have been made to partially reconstruct the castle's round tower with large field stones. But it hasn't really worked out (yet) because it now looks far too bright and too new for an old castle. Hopefully it will "age" a bit over time.
The only public path leads from the castle to the Billequelle.
The path there has now also been well developed.
The paved path that leads past the spring ends in a dead end and it leads back over private property, where a farm dog keeps a close eye on things and barks at "intruders". So you have to go back the same way past the old castle. It's a nice little walk. I can definitely recommend it.
You can find more information about the castle ruins here:
denkmalschutz.de/denkmal/burg-linau.html
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Medieval Castle Ruins of Kuddewörde
Highlight • Castle
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuddew%C3%B6rde
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of Grambek Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Also an eye-catcher
0
0
In 1230, the Slavic settlement was first mentioned in the Ratzeburg tithe register as Linowe or Lynowe. The place name goes back to Old Polabian *Linov and is a combination of *lin "tench" and the possessive suffix -ov and means settlement near the tench. Linau is of Slavic origin and lies on the "Limes Saxoniae", the former border between Saxons and Slavs, which enters the administrative area here. According to historical research, it can be assumed that the then "Lynowe" existed as a settlement much earlier. Linau Castle was destroyed in 1291, and the second castle in 1349. The remains of the castle complex are now more clearly visible again, as the foundation of the complex was restored as authentically as possible in a very complex operation in cooperation with the State Archaeological Office. The complex thus gives visitors an idea of its former importance. It is the only castle ruin of its kind in southern Holstein. Linau is located on the edge of the Hahnheide nature reserve and local recreation area, directly on the district border with Stormarn. The community had 543 inhabitants in 1939. After the unspeakable war, there were 1031. Many of them have accepted the community as their new home. Linau has an intact, diverse club life, including a motivated volunteer fire department. This is not least and especially due to the initiative of the Linauers. https://gemeinde-linau.de/unser-dorf/ https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linau
4
0
The wooden bridge leads over the still very young Bille to the castle ruins.
5
0
Interesting building. Unfortunately it cannot be visited and you can only see it over the castle wall.
2
0
Today we visited the reconstructed castle. The reconstruction probably only affects the old keep, which was built a few meters thick with field stones. We would not have expected the castle itself to be here, but it is worth a short detour. Times must have been quite dangerous here back then, since some old castle ruins such as Cecilieninsel and the other castle ruins next to Cecilieninsel are also there. Incidentally, the way to the farm dog was blocked off, which means that it is no longer possible to get there. Next to the castle there are some ponds where fish was/is bred. If you want to enjoy the view, you can eat in the pond restaurant. But I don't know if this is still open at all, since there was no card on the house.
3
0
Well hidden and ingrown, it is better not to disturb you!
2
0
Nice castle surrounded with farm buildings.
6
1
I discovered the place by chance. Since I like castles, I was very satisfied and I took some pictures. Unfortunately, I couldn't spend a lot of time here. But the environment looks very nice.
13
3
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any castles directly in Borstorf that I can visit?
While Borstorf has a rich historical connection to castles, historical records indicate that the medieval castle complexes within the municipality were destroyed between 1291 and 1349. There are no existing castles in Borstorf today that can be visited. To explore castles, you will need to visit sites in the surrounding region.
What kind of historical sites can I find around Borstorf?
The area around Borstorf offers a variety of historical sites, including castle ruins, manor houses, and war memorials. Notable examples include Wotersen Castle, a beautiful manor house, the remains of Burg Linau Ruins, and the Franzosenschanze War Memorial, which is the remains of a medieval castle used by French troops.
Which castles near Borstorf are family-friendly?
Wotersen Castle is considered family-friendly, offering a wonderful area for walks around the manor house and its grounds. The Burg Linau Ruins also offer a nice, small walk that families can enjoy, imagining the medieval history.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Borstorf?
The region around Borstorf and its historical sites is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and touring bicycles. For example, you can explore MTB Trails around Borstorf, enjoy Road Cycling Routes around Borstorf, or go Cycling around Borstorf. Many of these routes pass by or near the historical sites and natural landscapes.
Can I visit the interior of Wotersen Castle?
While Wotersen Castle is a prominent and beautiful manor house, the castle itself is generally not open to the public for interior visits. However, the surrounding area, with its ancient trees and manicured meadows, is perfect for hikes and photography, allowing you to appreciate its historic architecture in a natural setting.
What can I expect to see at Burg Linau Ruins?
At Burg Linau Ruins, you will find the remains of a medieval castle. Recent efforts have been made to partially reconstruct the castle's round tower with large field stones. It's a site where you can envision medieval life and enjoy a pleasant walk, especially towards the Billequelle (Bille spring).
Are there any 'robber castles' mentioned in the history of Borstorf?
Yes, historical accounts refer to some of the medieval castles in the Borstorf area as 'robber castles.' For instance, the castle known as 'Linowe' (likely referring to the site of Burg Linau Ruins) was associated with the contentious Scharffenberg noble family and was destroyed after being known as a 'robbers' nest' in 1291.
What is the Franzosenschanze War Memorial?
The Franzosenschanze War Memorial is a significant historical site that represents the remains of a medieval castle. It was notably used by French troops in 1813 during the liberation wars. The wall of the original structure is still well-preserved, showcasing its historical layout and divisions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites around Borstorf?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and nature. The serene elegance of manor houses like Wotersen Castle, the opportunity to imagine medieval life at sites like Burg Linau Ruins, and the well-preserved structures of places like the Franzosenschanze War Memorial are highly appreciated. The surrounding landscapes also offer beautiful settings for walks and photography.
Are there any medieval castle ruins in Kuddewörde?
Yes, in the Billetal near Kuddewörde, there are remains of medieval castle ruins. Historically, a keep of Duke Eric IV of Saxony-Lauenburg was destroyed here in 1420. While some parts may be on private land, it's an exciting spot to imagine medieval life along the small river.
What natural attractions are near the historical sites around Borstorf?
Beyond the castles, the Borstorf area is known for its rural landscapes and natural beauty. You can visit the Langer Otto Observation Tower for panoramic views, or explore scenic lakes like Schmalsee and Lake Lütau, which offer opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature.
Is there public transport available to reach castles near Borstorf?
Public transport options in the Borstorf area are generally limited, especially for reaching specific historical sites or more remote natural attractions. It is often recommended to use a car or bicycle to explore the castles and surrounding areas effectively. Always check local transport schedules for the most current information.
Most popular routes around Borstorf
Most popular attractions around Borstorf
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Borstorf:
