Half a Day at the Alsbach Castle

Alsbach Castle, also known as Bickenbach Castle, is situated on the Bergstraße in Alsbach Hähnlein, in the Darmstadt-Dieburg district of Germany.

About Alsbach Castle

This 13th-century castle was built by the Lords of Bickenbach. Until almost the end of the 16th century, it changed hands many times. Around the 17th century, the castle gradually fell into disrepair, and since then, the complex has only remained as a ruin. However, some parts of the castle have been preserved, especially the outer wall, the moat, and the Keep (called Bergfried in German), which refers to a defensive tower commonly constructed in castles during the 12th Century.

Today, the Keep functions as an observation tower. A spiral staircase leads to the top, from where one can get excellent views of the valley below.

The castle is managed by the Bürgerverein Historischer und kultureller Förderverein Schloss Alsbach, which organises various cultural events at the castle to generate funds used for the maintenance and upkeep of the castle.

Reaching Alsbach Castle

Alsbach Castle is about 20 km south of Darmstadt and can be reached in less than 30 minutes by car. Public transportation is available, but none of it can take you directly to the castle. One can alight at the base of the mountain and hike up to the castle.

Experiences at Alsbach Castle

You can add a hiking experience, parking/alighting from the public transport at the base, and hiking up to the castle. The adjoining forest is lovely, and a path through it leads you straight to the castle.
You can take your car up to the castle and explore the castle on foot. You can bring your food and enjoy a picnic or order food at the small restaurant on the premises.
Walk around the castle, climb the tower, check out the animals and enjoy lovely views of the valley.