Rheinstein Castle, Germany

The Rhine Valley in Germany is renowned for its scenic beauty, dotted with vineyards, historic castles, and picturesque towns. Situated on a rocky ridge, Rheinstein castle rises 270 feet above the River Rhine in the Loreley Valley. Rheinstein Castle is a picturesque medieval castle on the Rhine river dating back to the 13th century and a fascinating example of medieval architecture. It is located near the town of Trechtingshausen in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Rheinstein castle possesses a working drawbridge and portcullis gate, which are typical of medieval castle architecture and defences. Rheinstein's courtyard is known as the Burgundy Garden after the Burgundy grape vine growing there. The vine, which is approximately 500 years old, still produces grapes. From the garden, steps lead down to the castle chapel (which was closed the day we were there). In the center of the Gothic altar piece of the chapel there is a woodcarving depicting Jesus at the Last Supper. Between the rock and chapel, additional steps lead down to the royal crypt of Prince Frederick William Louis's family. Heading upwards to the Burgundy Garden, another set of steps lead to the main entry into the inside of the castle. The Castle’s interior is almost as stunning as its façade, with numerous well-restored and adorned chambers and halls. The largest and most impressive room at Rheinstein Castle is located at the top of the stairway to the left once inside the castle. Known as the Rittersaal or Knight's Hall, it includes beautiful stained glass windows, as well as three-dimensional paintings. The many overlooks provide unforgettable views of the Rhine river valley and the surrounding landscape, which is crowded with vinyards. Visitors can scale the many staircases in the castle to explore the higher regions, including the towers. The towers provide views of the courtyard garden as well as Rhine river valley.
There is free parking spots along B9 down by the rhine river. You will need to walk up a switchback path to get to the castle grounds. The uphill walk is about five to ten minutes. Parking is limited in the reserved spots along B9 and a 2 hour time limit is enforced during peak season, but you won’t need much more time than that to tour the castle
The video shows how my wife and I experience this wonderful German romantic castle.