Burgschwalbach: Discover Forests and History

Burgschwalbach combines a forest playground with far-reaching views and a rich local history. The town offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the history of the castle and church.

A forest playground for spending time together

Märchenwald, above Burg Schwalbach Castle, is a forest playground open year-round. Its facilities include play equipment, huts, and seating; use is free of charge. Three huts and a sunshade can be reserved for private celebrations or children’s birthday parties. For families looking to spend time together outdoors, the playground offers a place to play and celebrate under the open sky.

The history of the castle and town

The medieval history is reflected both in the castle and in the rights granted to the town. Burg Schwalbach Castle was built from 1368 onward by Count Eberhard of Katzenelnbogen. That same year, Burgschwalbach was granted the right to fortify the settlement, elevate it to town status, and hold a weekly market on Tuesdays. These rights offer insight into different aspects of the town’s development at the time. In 1594, Count Wilhelm of Nassau-Weilburg took up residence at Burg Schwalbach Castle. In 1598, a new water supply pipe made of clay pipes was laid to the castle.

A closer look at the Protestant church

The Protestant church is believed to be more than 1,000 years old. It was remodeled in the 14th century and gained a Gothic five-eighths choir. The nave was extended westward in 1664; its ceiling is decorated with 17th-century stucco work. The choir contains a black marble baptismal font dating from 1714 and two stained-glass windows created by the painter Heinz Hindorf. Gothic paintings, including trees of life and consecration crosses, were uncovered there in 1998. Alongside its architecture, the church’s paintings and furnishings offer further insights into its history.

The church can be visited by prior telephone arrangement. As visiting arrangements may change, please confirm by phone before your visit.

Views and forest experiences

Wehrholz, the highest point in Burgschwalbach, offers views across the village and the valley. Burgschwalbach is known for its extensive woodland and high recreational value. The landscape and views thus complement the historic buildings with a different perspective on the town.

The nearby Palmbachtal Forest Discovery Trail runs between Panrod and Burgschwalbach. Its stations explain tree species and forest processes. The trail’s facilities include an acoustic hut, a forest telephone, and an insect wall. While Märchenwald is designed as a playground, the forest discovery trail focuses on the woodland and natural connections.

In nearby Zollhaus, cyclists and hikers can visit the Römerquelle and Johannisbrunnen mineral springs. These add further destinations in the surrounding area to the forest attractions.

Plan your journey

Bus route 572 connects Bonscheuer, Burgschwalbach, and Hahnstätten. Check the latest timetable and route information before traveling, as schedules and route assignments may change.

Discover more destinations

Bad Ems, Nastätten, Nochern, Oberneisen, Attenhausen, Bremberg, Kemmenau, Nassau.

To the regional travel overview: Rhein-Lahn.