Königstein im Taunus: Castles, Trails and Baths

In Königstein im Taunus, castle ruins and striking viewpoints meet therapeutic climate hiking trails and bathing options. History, exercise and water offer different focal points for planning your trip.

Castles and town history

Falkenstein Castle Ruins, also known as Neu-Falkenstein Castle, was built in the 14th century by the Lords of Bolanden-Falkenstein alongside the older Nürings Castle and was first mentioned in 1364. The ruins offer sweeping, impressive views across the Rhine-Main Plain. Another striking landmark is the keep of Königstein Castle Ruins: a medieval defensive tower around 34 metres high.

The approximately 90-minute guided tour of Königstein and its castle is an entertaining walk through the spa gardens and town centre, leading up to the castle ruins. Along the way, it introduces their eventful history, other sights and Königstein’s development into a therapeutic climate health resort. The spa gardens are directly adjacent to the town centre, with its pedestrian zone, town hall and central area.

Königstein’s medieval jousting tournament takes place annually on the weekend after Ascension Day on the grounds of Königstein Castle. As the exact calendar date may vary, it is advisable to check the date before planning your trip.

Hiking trails and sweeping views

The 32-metre-high Hardtberg Tower stands at 409 m above sea level between the spa town of Königstein and its district of Mammolshain. From there, views stretch across the Taunus slopes and the Rhine-Main Plain, including the Frankfurt skyline, as well as Königstein, Falkenstein and Kronberg castles.

The network of trails also offers options for different types of walks. Twelve of the 34 therapeutic climate circular hiking trails in the Hochtaunus Therapeutic Climate Park start from five trailheads in Königstein. The park stretches between Königstein and the Großer Feldberg over around 20 km² and includes around 180 km of measured therapeutic climate hiking trails.

The Königstein 1 therapeutic climate trail (KS1) starts at the Kurbad trailhead, runs alongside the Falkensteiner Hain nature reserve within the town and connects the central town with the district of Falkenstein. The Three Castles Trail starts at Königstein Castle, passes the Kurbad and enters the Falkensteiner Burghain nature reserve. It is a 11.70 km moderately difficult circular trail. The two routes therefore offer different experiences: the KS1 connects districts along the nature reserve, while the Three Castles Trail is described as a circular route with a specified length and difficulty.

Baths and practical information

Königstein Kurbad has a 29°C indoor pool and a 32°C panoramic outdoor pool with views of Königstein Castle. The outdoor swimming pool at the end of Forellenweg has retained the style of 1920s lidos, is equipped with modern technology and offers a large sunbathing lawn and extensive leisure facilities. It operates seasonally; check the current opening hours before visiting.

You can reach the Three Castles Trail via Königstein station on the RB12, or by taking one of several bus lines to the Königstein, Stadtmitte or Königstein, Friedhof stops. Check the timetables before travelling. Paid parking is available at the town hall and Luxemburger Schloss; from either location, Königstein Castle Ruins is about a five- to ten-minute walk away.

The specific places you plan to visit may determine your choice of accommodation: the castle and guided town tour, a circular trail or the baths each make for different day plans. So, when choosing where to stay, consider the places you want to visit during your trip.

Discover more destinations: Kronberg, Schmitten, Friedrichsdorf, Wehrheim, Oberursel, Grävenwiesbach, Weilrod, Usingen.

For the wider travel overview: Hochtaunus.