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Due to regulations to prevent the spread of COVID-19, bookings and trips may be cancelled or postponed, and travel to neighboring countries may not be allowed. Please verify the status before making plans to attend. For U.S. government employees, including service members, remember to always follow command regulations, which may be different than host nation policies.
Wolfstein is a small, cozy town near Kaiserslautern that’s great for a day trip. The popular hiking village has some unique attractions for you, your children and furry companions.
Neu Wolfstein Ruins
Despite the name, “new” Wolfstein castle ruins consist of an outer wall, and little else. Inside the wall is a 1930s war memorial, an interesting read for history buffs.
The views from the ruins are beautiful, and include a look down on the grapevines growing hillside.
Alt Wolfstein Ruins
“Old” Wolfstein castle ruins date back to 1170. There is more structure of this castle remaining, although it’s not available to explore. Most of the fun of these ruins is found from the short ½ mile hiking path one takes to reach the structure from Neu Wolfstein.
It’s a light hike, perfect for dogs and kids and comes with many places to rest and admire the view along the way. Avid hikers can continue on the Höhenweg trail from this point (just follow the signs)!
Chalk Mine
One really cool tourist attraction in Wolfstein is the chalk mine “Kalkbergwerk am Königsberg.” (https://kalkbergwerk.com/) The mine stopped being operated in 1967, but you can still take an underground tour. Kids will love the train which runs through the mine, giving mini-miners a look at life as a chalk excavator.
The mine is open Sundays and Holidays from 1-6 p.m. Prices for the chalk mine are €4.50 for children and €5.50 for adults. You can also get a family pass (2 adults and 1 child) for €14.50. Make sure you bring cash to pay for admittance. Call ahead to arrange an English tour and to find out about current opening times and Covid regulations: 06382 791 116.
Kalkbergwerk am Königsberg is located about 10km south of Lauterecken on B270. Parking is available just down the road on Hauptstrasse. You can also walk to the mine from the Wolfstein train station; it will take about 10 minutes.
How to Get There
Wolfstein is located about 30 minutes from Kaiserslautern, 1.5 hours from Wiesbaden, and 3 hours from Stuttgart. It is also accessible by train via the Wolfstein Banhof. Visit DB Bahn for travel times and details.
Author’s Profile: Kelly is a DOD wife, devoted dog-mom, a mediocre cook, a whiskey aficionado and an avid traveler who’s exploring the Kaiserslautern area with dog and husband in tow.
