Königstein im Taunus: Castles, Spa Park and Hiking Trails

Castles, history and guided town tour

The Falkenstein castle ruin, also known as Neu-Falkenstein Castle, was built in the 14th century by the Lords of Bolanden-Falkenstein next to the older Nürings Castle. It was first mentioned in 1364. From the ruin, the view extends far across the Rhine-Main Plain. The Königstein castle ruin is a separate site: its keep is a medieval defensive tower about 34 metres high.

An approximately 90-minute guided tour of Königstein and its castle takes you on a walk through the spa park and town centre, up to the castle ruin. Along the way, you’ll learn about its eventful history, other sights and Königstein’s development into a therapeutic climate resort. If you plan to join this tour, check the latest dates and whether booking is required. The Königstein Knight Tournament is also held every year on the weekend after Ascension Day on the grounds of Königstein Castle; check the specific date in advance.

Hiking trails with different levels of difficulty

Different trail descriptions are available to help you plan a shorter or longer hike. The Königstein therapeutic climate hiking trail 1 (KS1) starts at the entrance to the spa baths, runs along the Falkensteiner Hain nature reserve within the town and connects the town centre with the district of Falkenstein. By contrast, the Three Castles Trail is a moderately difficult 11.70-kilometre circular route. It starts at Königstein Castle, passes the spa baths and enters the Falkensteiner Burghain nature reserve.

The Three Castles Trail can be reached via Königstein station on the RB12, as well as from the Königstein, Stadtmitte and Königstein, Friedhof bus stops, served by several bus routes. Check the timetable and trail conditions before setting out. Paid parking is available at the town hall and Luxemburger Schloss; from either location, Königstein castle ruin is about a five- to ten-minute walk away. Parking regulations may change, so it is worth checking the latest information.

These trails are part of a larger therapeutic climate hiking network: twelve of the 34 circular trails in the Hochtaunus Therapeutic Climate Park start from five trail gateways in Königstein. The park covers around 20 square kilometres between Königstein and the Großer Feldberg and includes around 180 kilometres of surveyed therapeutic climate hiking trails. You can focus on a single hike in Königstein or plan around the wider network.

Spa park, baths and viewpoints

The spa park borders directly on the town centre, with its pedestrian zone, town hall and central area. It therefore offers a clear point of reference if you want to combine a castle visit with time in town and a walk. Another viewpoint is the 32-metre-high Hardtberg Tower. It stands at an elevation of 409 metres between Königstein and Mammolshain. From there, the view stretches across the Taunus slopes and the Rhine-Main Plain, including Frankfurt’s skyline, as far as the castles of Königstein, Falkenstein and Kronberg.

The spa baths feature a 29°C indoor pool and a 32°C panoramic outdoor pool with views of Königstein Castle. These facilities are described as permanent, but opening arrangements may change; check before your visit. Königstein’s outdoor swimming pool at the end of Forellenweg retains the style of 1920s lidos, is equipped with modern technology and offers a large sunbathing lawn as well as extensive recreational facilities. As it operates seasonally, plan your visit accordingly and check whether it is currently open.

For the wider travel overview: Hochtaunus.