Hambacher Schloss & Kalmit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hambacher Schloss - castle, history and panorama


It is impossible to imagine the Palatinate without Hambach Castle in Neustadt an der Weinstraße. Built in the Middle Ages and, shaped and recreated into a castle in modern times, the buildings have always been of great importance for the region. Not least because of the Hambach Festival held in 1832, which is considered the most important symbol of the German democracy movement.

Another bucket-list destination of a special kind - here, at an altitude of 376m, there is a lot of significant German history, well-preserved castle grounds and a fascinating panoramic view over the Upper Rhine lowlands.

Hambach Castle is located on the eastern slope of the Haardt (a mountain range on the eastern edge of the Palatinate Forest) and is an ideal starting point to experience other sights and the great nature of the region. For example, a hike even higher up to 673m to the Kalmit, the highest mountain in the Palatinate Forest.

Highlights & Tipps

guided tours and group tours are possible, information can be found here
 

How to get there

by train: KL Hbf > S-Bahn or R-Bahn to Neustadt an der Weinstraße, Hbf
There is a direct bus connection (bus line 502) from the main train station in Neustadt an der Weinstraße to the "Hambacher Schloss" stop (all year round).
by car: navigation to Hambacher Schloss, 67434 Neustadt an der Weinstraße
Parking is available (Freiheitsstraße).
It is generally not possible to drive up to the castle. Short walk is necessary.


When

Your visit is worthwhile all year round. The castle and the museum are open all year round, except on Mondays. For the latest information on opening hours, visit the castle's website.


Duration

A day trip here is worthwhile. With arrival and departure, a guided tour and a small exploration tour with a view of the castle, you are on the road between 6 and 7 hours.


Equipment

Also for this bucket list destination you don't need much equipment. Comfortable shoes are an advantage if you want to join a hike. You should definitely take something to eat and drink with you and of course don't forget your camera or smartphone to immortalize the beautiful view.