The three castles of Ribeauvillé

As the main town on the wine route, Ribeauvillé is the starting point for a 9 km trail which includes Ribeauvillé's three castles. Discover mediaeval architecture as you explore this attractive wine producing area!

The Saint Ulrich

Built on the 11th century, this castle once controlled access to the strategic road linking the Alsatian plain to the Lièpvre high Valley. A Romanesque keep today forms the centrepiece of the ruins of this partially restored site.

The Girsberg

Also known as Petit-Ribeaupierre, this 13th century castle seems to cling perilously onto the rock on which it was built. Struck by lightning in 1288, a series of events saw it pass from one owner to another up until the 17th century, the period during which it was probably abandoned. Today, all that remains are the ruins, including a large pentagonal keep. The terrace offers an outstanding view across Ribeauvillé and the Alsatian plain.

According to legend, two brothers who enjoyed hunting together both lived nearby: one in the castle of Girsberg and the other in that of Saint Ulrich. One morning, one of the brothers decided to wake up the other by shooting an arrow into his window shutter. Unfortunately, the other chose that precise moment to come up to the window and was killed. Ever since, it is said that when the wind blows violently here, you can hear the ghost of the killer galloping on his horse and screaming "I've killed my brother!".

The Haut Ribeaupierre

Mentioned for the first time in 1084, the Haut Ribeaupierre is the oldest of the "Three Castles of Ribeauvillé". Also known as the Altenkastel, the castle offers a wonderful view across the Alsatian plains, and over the Vosges peaks. This building, which is currently being restored, includes among other things an impressive circular keep which has survived the centuries well.