We drove through the town of Selestat until we climbed back up another mountain to Haut Königsburg. Dodging tour groups, we greatly enjoyed this castle.

Looming above the lovely village of St-Hippolyte this castle dominates the horizon. In 1114 the Swabian Emperor, Frederick of Hohenstaufen, built the first Teutonic castle here, which was destroyed in 1462. Rebuilt and added to under the Habsburgs, it burned down in 1633. At the end of the last century, Kaiser Wilhelm II decided to rebuild the German ruin, and the castle was reborn.

There are a variety of parking options for Haut Königsburg, and after the 10 kilometer uphill drive you may wish to park as close as you can. Regardless, all parking lots are at least within 500 meters, and the further ones enjoy nice paths through the woods. Haut Königsburg is open year round, and an entrance fee is charged (approx. $10.00 per person). Public bathrooms are available..