Sternenberg castle ruin

Sternenberg castle ruin is what remains of a medieval stronghold in the municipality of Hofstetten-Flüh, in the Swiss canton of Solothurn, right by the border with Basel-Landschaft. The ruins stand on the western edge of the valley between the villages of Hofstetten and Flüh, making them an easy short outing from the Basel area.

What is the history of the castle?

According to research, the castle was built in the 13th century. It served as the seat of the lords of Hofstetten, who are documented there from 1250 to 1390. The stronghold later passed to the Fröweler family. In the first half of the 15th century a fire damaged the castle, and it was never rebuilt, which is why only a ruin can be seen today.

Around 1480 the castle's estates went to the Counts of Thierstein-Pfeffingen, who granted them out as a fief. In 1526 the property was briefly held by Basel, and then, before 1529, it came under Solothurn. The village of Hofstetten itself had come under Solothurn in 1515; earlier it had been one of the seven free imperial villages of the Blauen area and later part of the Rotberg lordship.

Is the ruin protected?

Yes. It is listed in the cantonal register of protected monuments of Solothurn, so the remains fall under heritage protection.

What are the approach and the view like?

Hikers describe the ascent as pleasant and accessible to casual walkers. The final stretch uses a stony staircase, though, so sturdy footwear and sure footing are advisable; a chain is provided to hold on to. Visitors rate the view as worth the effort, and it includes the Landskron castle ruins in the distance.

How can you combine a visit with a longer walk?

The area is popular with walkers. One documented route links Flüh, the Landskron ruins and the Hofstetter Chöpfli summit: about 9.8 km, roughly 3 hours, around 450 m of ascent, medium difficulty. From the Landskron platform you can see the Rhine plain, the Vosges and the Black Forest, and the route also passes vineyards and offers a view of Mariastein Abbey. The Sternenberg ruins can round out such a day in the Swiss Jura.

Frequently asked questions

When was the castle built? In the 13th century.

Can you explore the castle interior? It is a ruin left after a 15th-century fire and never rebuilt; expect uneven ground and a stony staircase on the way up.

Where exactly is it? In Hofstetten-Flüh, on the western edge of the valley between Hofstetten and Flüh, canton of Solothurn, Switzerland.

Is it a good short trip? Yes, especially when combined with the nearby Landskron ruins and the views over the surrounding countryside.