DRACHENBURG CASTLE

Drachenburg Castle is a 19th century castle located in the town of Königswinter, just outside of Bonn, Germany. The castle was built by a wealthy businessman, Baron Stephan von Sarter, in the late 19th century. It was intended as a private residence, but was never actually lived in by the Baron.

The castle is a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture and features a variety of towers, turrets, and battlements. Inside, visitors can explore the castle’s grand halls and rooms, which are filled with rich furnishings and decor. There are also several exhibitions and displays that provide information about the castle’s history and the life of Baron von Sarter.

History of the castle

Drachenburg Castle in Bonn, Germany was built in the late 19th century as a private residence for a wealthy banker and industrialist named Baron Stephan von Sarter. The castle was built between 1882 and 1884 on the Drachenfels hill in the Siebengebirge, near the city of Bonn.

The castle was designed by the architect Hermann Ende, and it was built in the style of a medieval castle, complete with towers, battlements, and a drawbridge. However, despite its impressive appearance, the castle was never actually used as a residence by Baron von Sarter. Instead, it was intended as a showcase for his art collection and as a place to entertain guests.

After the death of Baron von Sarter in 1901, the castle passed through various owners, including the German government, which used it as a military hospital during World War II. In the post-war period, the castle fell into disrepair and was in danger of being demolished. However, it was eventually purchased by a private foundation, which restored it and opened it to the public as a tourist attraction.

Today, the castle is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction in the area. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the region and the castle, as well as to enjoy the beautiful views from the top of the Drachenfels hill.

What to do in the Castle

There are several things to do when visiting Drachenburg Castle in Bonn:

Take a tour of the castle: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and architecture.

Explore the castle’s gardens: The castle’s gardens are open to visitors and are a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views.

Visit the castle’s museum: The castle’s museum features exhibits on the history of the castle and its inhabitants, as well as information on the surrounding area.

Have a picnic: Visitors can bring a picnic and enjoy it on the castle’s grounds

Hike to the top of the Drachenfels hill: The castle is located on the Drachenfels hill and offers a great view over the Rhine valley, the city of Bonn and the Siebengebirge hills. You can hike to the top of the hill to enjoy the views.

Take a boat tour: There are many boat tour companies that offer boat trips along the Rhine river, so you can enjoy the views of the castle from the river.

Enjoy a meal: There is a restaurant in the castle where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink.

Shop for souvenirs: The castle has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs to remember your visit.

How to get to Königswinter

There are several ways to get to Königswinter, Germany:

By car: Königswinter is located on the banks of the Rhine river and can be reached by car via the A3 motorway.

By train: Visitors can take a train to Königswinter from Bonn central station. There are regular trains running from Bonn to Königswinter, and it takes around 20 minutes.

By bus: There are bus services that connect Königswinter with other cities in the region, such as Bonn.

By boat: There are several boat tour companies that offer boat trips along the Rhine river, stopping at Königswinter.

By bike: Königswinter is located on the Rhine river and is part of the Rhine bike trail, which is a great way to explore the region by bike.

It is advisable to check the schedule of the transportation services and the cost, as they may change.

Ways to the castle

Drachenfelsbahn: One can easily go up there to the castle by Drachenfelsbahn. They offer up and down for only 12 euros(adults). For children its 6 euros and for family 30 euros. you of course can check here

Walking: From the valley station of the Drachenfelsbahn, the so-called donkey path leads past the Nibelungenhalle and the outer bailey to the castle gate. For a leisurely ascent you need about 30 minutes. Save the map

By car: You can leave your car at the Lemmerzbad car park (Oberweingartenweg – chargeable car park) and walk the rest of the way: it’s only 10 minutes and well worth it.