Hollenfels Castle

Hollenfels Castle is a medieval fortress in a valley setting with a roughly 39-meter square keep, a slender tower at one corner, a perimeter wall, and a residential wing. These sections connect across a defensive ditch via a stone-built bridge.

The castle first appeared in records in 1129 under Knight Ludolf, who held water rights granted by Mariënthal Abbey. The distinctive keep was constructed around 1380, becoming the stronghold's defining feature.

The chapel inside shows Gothic features and remains a place where visitors can pause and reflect. This spiritual function has shaped how people experience the castle across centuries.

The castle welcomes visitors year-round and functions as an educational center with youth programs and sleeping facilities available. Wear sturdy shoes, as the grounds include steep steps and wooden bridges that need careful footing.

The name comes from natural hollows in the surrounding rock formations, which are visible from a hiking path. This trail winds through the landscape with steep steps and wooden bridges crossing the grounds.

Location: Helperknapp

GPS coordinates: 49.71208,6.05153

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07