Altrathen Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Rathen, Germany.
Altrathen is a castle perched on a rocky outcrop in Saxon Switzerland, featuring medieval walls and cellars cut into the natural stone formation. The property now serves as a hotel and restaurant for guests.
The castle originated as a medieval fortification and underwent comprehensive redesign in the late 1800s. This transformation preserved the medieval core while introducing new styles suitable for hospitality use.
The castle displays a blend of medieval walls and later additions that become visible as you move through the rooms. Visitors can directly experience these different construction periods while exploring the interior.
Visitors should expect uneven terrain and stairs built into the rock formation, as the location is topographically demanding. Sturdy footwear and time to explore carefully are helpful for a comfortable visit.
An original medieval spiral staircase remains intact in the keep, showing how people climbed up centuries ago. This stone structure directly links visitors to the castle's oldest period.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.