Top 8 Castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis
Best castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis are nestled in the scenic Taunus region, offering a glimpse into Germany's past. This area features historic castles and ruins, ranging from medieval fortresses to more palatial structures. The region provides diverse landscapes, including wooded hills and views of the Rhine-Main plain, making it suitable for exploring historical sites.
Best castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis
- The most popular castles is Rettershof Estate, a historical site that has a long history, with a monastery present as early as the 12th century. Today, it functions as a popular destination with a guest house and hotel, set between forest and meadows.
- Another must-see spot is Eppstein Castle, a castle proudly towering over the old town. It is older than the town itself and can be visited, housing the city and castle museum.
- Visitors also love Kellereigebäude and Hexenturm, a historical site that includes a winery building and a moated castle, separated from the city by walls until 1819. The Hexenturm, a former city wall tower, once imprisoned women accused of witchcraft.
- Main-Taunus-Kreis is known for medieval fortresses, moated castles, and palatial structures. Visitors can explore a variety of architectural styles and historical periods across the region's castles.
- The castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1800 upvotes and more than 900 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Eppstein Castle
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Rettershof Estate
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Roman watchtower and ring fortification at Kapellenberg
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Kellereigebäude and Hexenturm
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From 1717 to 1719, the Elector of Mainz and Archbishop Lothar Franz von Schönborn had it converted into a hunting lodge. His coat of arms can still be seen above the entrance.
There is a tower on the east corner of the winery building. It is one of three proven towers of the city wall from the 14th century. The name "Witches' Tower" goes back to the fact that women accused of witchcraft were actually imprisoned here. Today, two large plaques on the tower indicate the fate of those persecuted as witches.
hofheim.de/tourismus/Sehenswertes_in_Hofheim/Kellereigebaeude_mit_Hexenturm/index.phphttps://taunus.info/angebote/kultur-und-geschichte/denkmaeler/kellereigebaeude-hexenturm/3572
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Massenheim Castle
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de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Massenheim
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View of Königstein and Falkenstein Castles from Krebsbachtal
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Georg Sparwasser Pavilion with a View of Eppstein
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View of Kronberg Castle
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View of Königstein Castle and Großer Feldberg
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View of Altkönig, Kronberg Castle, and Falkenstein Castle Ruins
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Tips from the Community
Rettershof is a historic estate in the Fischbach district of Kelkheim, now a popular local recreation and excursion destination offering restaurants, equestrian activities, nature, and events. Originally, the property was founded in 1146 as the Premonstratensian Retters Monastery; after its dissolution in 1559, it developed into an agricultural estate with various owners. In the 19th century, the Englishman Frederik Arnold Rodewald acquired the estate and had a grand manor house built in the English Tudor style between 1884 and 1885. This building still forms the heart of the complex and has been owned by the city of Kelkheim since the early 1980s. Today, Rettershof comprises: • the Rettershof Castle Hotel with its historic charm, • the country inn "Zum fröhlichen Landmann" (The Merry Farmer), • a modern equestrian center with an indoor riding arena and paddocks, • expansive meadows, orchards, and woodlands. Rettershof also serves as a venue for markets, festivals, concerts, and harvest and cultural events, attracting many visitors from the region. In short: Rettershof combines medieval monastery and estate history with a modern recreational and cultural landscape – ideal for walks, horseback riding, events, and excursions in the Taunus region.
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Here you can find wine and other delicacies
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Massenheim Castle is a castle-like manor house at 145 m above sea level and is located at Schlossgasse 6 in the northwest of Massenheim, a district of the town of Hochheim am Main in the Main-Taunus district of Hesse. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Massenheim
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Since the property is private, unfortunately you cannot take a tour of the castle.
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The current so-called castle stands on the site of a noble estate that was documented as early as the 14th/15th century. It was built around 1740 by Princess Maria Magdalena Benedikte, Canoness of Gandersheim (died 1783, buried in the crypt of the Massenheim church). The estate includes a manor house, barn, garden with a surrounding wall and garden house, as well as courtyard enclosure. https://denkxweb.denkmalpflege-hessen.de/46003/
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Wonderful view of Kronberg. Invites you to linger and admire.
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Beautiful view of Eppstein Castle
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If the square in front of it wasn't so ugly (large parking lot) it would be a great urban center. This has also been achieved perfectly in Bad Vilbel. A lively square has been created here, along with a shopping center and underground parking garage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis are particularly family-friendly?
For families, Rettershof Estate is a great choice, offering a historical site with a guest house and hotel set amidst forests and meadows. The Kellereigebäude and Hexenturm in Hofheim also has family-friendly aspects, allowing exploration of a moated castle and a historic tower. Additionally, Burgruine Königstein hosts numerous family-friendly events during summer, including knight's tournaments and festivals.
Are there castles in the region that offer impressive panoramic views?
Yes, several castles provide stunning vistas. Burg Kronberg offers panoramic views of the Rhine-Main plain, extending to the Wetterau region, Spessart, and Odenwald mountains on clear days. The accessible tower at Burgruine Königstein also provides magnificent views of the Taunus and the Rhine-Main plain. For a view of Eppstein Castle itself, the Georg Sparwasser Pavilion is a recommended viewpoint.
What kind of historical architecture can I expect to see among the castles?
The Main-Taunus-Kreis showcases a rich variety of architectural styles. Burg Kronberg features a blend of Romanesque (with its imposing keep from around 1200) and later Gothic elements. Wasserschloss Hofheim offers a unique mix of medieval moated castle remnants and a baroque Kellerei building from the early 18th century, even incorporating parts of a Roman gravestone. Eppstein Castle is a medieval fortress proudly towering over its old town.
Can I explore castle ruins in the Main-Taunus-Kreis?
Absolutely. Burgruine Königstein is an impressive 12th-century ruin with remnants of fortifications, towers, and accessible cellars, offering a romantic ambiance. Wasserschloss Hofheim is also a partially preserved moated castle, allowing visitors to explore its historical remains, including the Hexenturm (Witches' Tower).
Are there any castles with unique natural features or gardens?
Burg Kronberg is notable for its unique yew grove, with some trees over 200 years old, which has been a protected nature reserve since 2009. The castle grounds themselves offer a beautiful setting to explore.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis?
The region around the castles is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous MTB trails, cycling routes, and running trails. Many routes offer views of the castles and the scenic Taunus landscape, making them perfect for combining history with nature.
Which castle offers insights into daily life and history through a museum?
Eppstein Castle houses the city and castle museum, providing a deeper look into the history of the castle and the surrounding area. Burg Kronberg also features a permanent exhibition detailing the lives of the Lords of Kronberg and a Gothic kitchen.
What is the best season to visit the castles in Main-Taunus-Kreis?
While the castles can be visited year-round, the summer months are particularly vibrant. Burgruine Königstein, for example, hosts numerous events during the summer, including knight's tournaments and music festivals, which can enhance your visit. Clear days in any season will offer the best panoramic views from castles like Burg Kronberg and Königstein.
Are there any castles that were once monasteries?
Yes, Rettershof Estate has a long history, with a monastery present as early as the 12th century. Today, it functions as a popular destination with a guest house and hotel, retaining its historical charm.
Can I find guided tours at any of the castles?
Burg Kronberg regularly offers guided tours, allowing visitors to delve into its rich history, from its origins as a defensive stronghold to its transformation into a residential palace and museum. It's recommended to check their official website for current tour schedules.
Which castles are easily accessible from Frankfurt?
Burgruine Königstein is easily accessible from Frankfurt, making it a convenient day trip for those coming from the city. Many of the castles in the Main-Taunus-Kreis are well-connected by road, offering straightforward access for visitors.
Are there any castles that host cultural events?
Burg Kronberg hosts various events, including concerts, theater, and markets. Burgruine Königstein is also known for its summer events, such as knight's tournaments, music, and cinema events, as well as a castle festival. Eppstein Castle also holds an annual castle festival.
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