Take a moonlight tour of Falkenstein Castle

The view of the Falkenstein castle ruins is already spectacular on approach via the windy roads up the hill. The legendary ruins sit atop this steep hill and overlook
the wild and scenic valley of Falkenstein.

Philipp I. of Bolanden founded his own royal line here in 1233. King Richard of Cornwall married Philip’s beautiful daughter Beatrix in 1269 in the town, which later became Kaiserslautern. Since then, the impressive castle has been changed tremendously by the hands of time.

In 1647, it was blown up by the French army. Despite this, the ruins that sit on a former volcanic vent have not lost their idyllic appearance. It is especially during dusk when the hills in the background grow darker and the rising full moon puts the narrow valley, the nature reserve “Schelmenkopf” and the castle walls in an eerie blue light. Now the ruins look the most beautiful.

During a special guided tour in English, with moonlight guaranteed, you can enjoy this unique atmosphere. Colors and contrasts will become vivid at dusk and the moonlight will create a fairytale scene. Bonfires and lanterns will add to the effect.
Even if you think you belong to the faint of heart, the ghost of Falkenstein Castle will actually help ease your chill.

The guided tour in English is scheduled for Aug. 4 and is geared toward the American community members living in the area. The tour will start at 8 p.m. and take about two hours. It is recommended to bring sturdy shoes and flashlights or lanterns. The meeting point is in the arena in front of the open-air stage, close to the “Burgstubb” pub.

Since tours fill up quickly, those who are interested are advised to make early reservations with the Tourismusbüro (tourist information) of Winnweiler.
Registration fee is €1.50 for adults and €1 for children. It is free for children under the age of 14. Nearby restaurants will be open to accommodate guests.

For reservations and more information, call 06302-602-61 or email info@winnweiler-vg.de.

A moonlight tour in German will be offered Aug. 3.

Falkenstein is in the Donnersberg area, north of Winnweiler.

(Courtesy of Winnweiler Tourist Office)