The castle of Haut-Barr is located in Saverne, in the north of Alsace. I had the opportunity to discover it during a hike around Saverne, during which we stopped to visit it. It is also possible to go up there by car or by bike, as I was able to do during this beautiful sporty loop around Saverne.
I’m not usually a fan of castles, even less of the ruined ones, but this one is well worth a visit: it’s impressive! The Upper Barr Castle is a castle that was built on huge sandstone rocks and is 470 meters high. A really exceptional location which allows to have a superb view on the Plain of Alsace and the Vosges.
Built in 1170, the castle of Haut-Barr was transformed and restored in the 14th century. It was erected by the bishops of Strasbourg, in order to watch over the valley of the Zorn and the plain of Alsace. That’s why it is nicknamed“the eye of Alsace“. Today, on a clear day, you can even see the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral. The castle was then abandoned in the 18th century.
It is also interesting to go and see the castral chapel, composed of a Romanesque nave and a Gothic heart with oriel. You can also discover many other elements of the castle in ruins, such as the artillery tower, the lordly dwelling or the windows.
Two rocks are connected by a footbridge nicknamed the Devil’s Bridge. You have to admit that it is impressive to cross! If you are afraid of heights, this can be an interesting exercise… or not!
I liked
- The superb view of the Alsace plain and the Vosges mountains
- The Devil’s Bridge: impressive!
I liked less
- Nothing!
My photos of the castle of Haut-Barr
Practical information
Rates and schedules
Access to the castle is free.
Access
By car
The address is as follows: Château du Haut-Barr 67700 Saverne. The castle is located in:
- 55 km from Strasbourg (about 50 minutes)
- 90 km from Colmar (about 1h25)
- 133 km from Mulhouse (about 1h45)
By public transport
Unfortunately, this is not possible.
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