Hohenklingen Castle

Hohenklingen Castle (Burg Hohenklingen) sits on a hill high above Stein am Rhein in the Swiss canton of Schaffhausen, at roughly 590 metres above sea level. From its walls you look down on the old town roofs and the Rhine as it heads toward Lake Constance.

What is the castle's story?

The oldest part is a residential tower. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland places it shortly after 1250, based on tree-ring dating of its timbers. The Klingen barons, who were the advocates of St. Georgen abbey, built it, and they later added the ring wall, a great hall and a chapel. A wooden predecessor probably stood on the spot first.

The Klingen family sold the castle in 1419 to the Klingenbergs, who passed it to the town of Stein am Rhein in 1457. The town has owned it ever since. A castle bailiff ran it on the town's behalf, and the tower doubled as a lookout. After 1484 it became part of a chain of hilltop signal posts linked to Zurich, and it later served as a defensive position in several conflicts, including the Swabian War of 1499.

The whole complex was thoroughly restored between 2005 and 2007.

What will you see?

• the walls, tower and courtyard of a medieval stronghold,
• views of Stein am Rhein, the river and the surrounding hills,
• a restaurant inside the castle, a handy stop after the climb.

The castle also shapes the town's skyline. You spot it from the Rhine promenade and the square by the town hall, and it keeps appearing between the trees on the trail up.

How do you get there?

A marked footpath leaves the old town and takes about 30 minutes each way. It is steep, so wear sturdy shoes. If you drive, there is parking directly in front of the castle. Allow one to two hours for the visit, including a meal.

When should you go?

Clear weather from late spring to autumn works best, when the Rhine valley is visible far into the distance and the restaurant terrace is in full use. Restaurant hours vary by weekday and season, so check the official castle website (burghohenklingen.com) before you set out.

Frequently asked questions

Can you walk to Hohenklingen from town? Yes. A marked path from the old town takes about 30 minutes and climbs the whole way.

Is there a restaurant at the castle? Yes, the castle has a restaurant. Its opening hours change with the day and the season, so consult the official site.

Who owns the castle? The town of Stein am Rhein has owned it since 1457.

Can I drive up? Yes, parking is available right in front of the castle.