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Castle · Cochem, Renânia-Palatinado
Burg Eltz
Medieval castle hidden in a wooded valley above the Mosela, with construction dating to before 1157 and never destroyed. It still belongs to a branch of the Eltz family and contains a treasure with items of gold, silver and suits of armor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Burg Eltz
Burg Eltz sits on a rock surrounded by the Eltzbach stream, in a closed forest valley about 15 km from Cochem as the crow flies. Work began before 1157, and the Romanesque tower called Platteltz is the oldest part. Over the centuries the castle grew upwards, with towers, balconies and slate roofs piled together.
It is a Ganerbenburg, a castle divided between branches of the same family, who lived in separate parts and shared the common areas. Three branches occupied the castle: Rübenach, Rodendorf and Kempenich. Burg Eltz withstood a siege in the 14th century and escaped the wars of the late 17th century that destroyed so many castles in the region, including Cochem's.
The castle remains in the hands of a branch of the Eltz family. The guided tour visits rooms with original furniture, paintings and objects. The Schatzkammer, the treasure chamber, displays pieces of gold, silver and porcelain, and the armory shows historical armour and weapons.
The visiting season usually runs from late March to early November, daily. In winter the castle is closed to the public. Photography inside the rooms is not allowed during the guided tour.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Allow 2–3 hours at the castle, plus the walking or bus transfer time to reach it.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, outside peak group times. The season usually runs from late March to early November; confirm before you go. In autumn, the surrounding forest changes color.
How to get there
From Cochem, take the regional train to Koblenz and get off at Moselkern: from there, follow the road and the Eltzbach valley trail, about 2.5 km from Ringelsteiner Mühle. Another option is to get off at Hatzenport and take the regional bus to the castle parking lot during the season; from the parking lot, a minibus or a short walk takes you to the gate. Those driving can park in Wierschem.
Tip
Bring cash: the castle parking and minibus usually only accept cash. To view the castle from outside, there is a lookout on the trail coming from the parking lot. The walk from Moselkern goes through the valley forest and requires sturdy footwear.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Burg Eltz
What is the visiting season for Burg Eltz?
It usually runs from late March to early November, daily. In winter the castle is closed to the public. Confirm dates before you go.
How do you get to Burg Eltz without a car?
By regional train to Moselkern and then on foot via the valley trail, or to Hatzenport and by regional bus to the castle parking lot during the season.
Was Burg Eltz rebuilt?
It was not destroyed like many castles in the region. It underwent restorations, but the medieval structure has survived to the present day, and the castle remains in the Eltz family.
Can you photograph inside the castle?
Not during the guided tour of the rooms. Outside, in the courtyard and at the trail viewpoints, photos are allowed.