Ortenberg Castle

Ortenberg Castle is a stone fortress rising on a hilltop at the end of the Kinzig Valley between Offenburg and Gengenbach. The structure features medieval walls and offers views across the surrounding farmland and forests from its elevated position.

The castle originated in the 11th century when the House of Zähringen built it as a regional stronghold. Its role changed over time, shifting from administrative functions to residential and eventually to use as a youth hostel starting in the mid-20th century.

The inner courtyard displays Renaissance-style frescos added during the 19th-century reconstruction, with painted ceilings in the arcades. These decorations give the interior spaces a refined look that visitors can see while walking through the castle.

Visitors can explore the castle grounds and stay overnight in renovated guestrooms if desired. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the hilltop location requires climbing steep paths, and the interior features numerous staircases.

The Malerturm was originally built as a powder storage tower but later transformed into a ceremonial wedding space. Today it functions as a cherished location where couples celebrate their marriages within the castle's historic walls.