Burgruine Weißenstein
Die Burgruine Weißenstein liegt im Naturpark Steinwald.
The extensively restored 12th-century castle ruins are one of the most popular destinations in the Steinwald Forest. The keep (863 m above sea level) offers a magnificent panoramic view of the largest contiguous forest area in Central Europe: the view stretches from the Upper Palatinate Forest all the way into the Bohemian Forest and the Ore Mountains. According to excavation findings, the castle, built at the beginning of the 11th century, was used as a large Ganerbenburg (multi-family castle) until 1550, but was then abandoned – the temperatures at an altitude of 850 m were likely the reason for this.
Directions:The Burguine Weißenstein is located in the Steinwald Nature Park in the municipality of Waldershof, district of Tirschenreuth at an altitude of 863m above sea level.
The forest road to the Weißenstein Castle ruins is closed to public traffic. The shortest starting point (approx. 3 km) is the hiking car park near Hohenhard.
From Friedenfels: Drive past the Schlossbrauerei (castle brewery), then turn left towards Marktredwitz. After about 5 km, follow the turnoff to the left for "MarktredwitzerHaus" and "Burgruine Weißenstein." After about 500 m, you will find the hiking parking lot on the left.
From Marktredwitz: Drive towards Waldershof. Shortly before the Waldershof sign, turn left towards Fuchsmühl, Wiesau, Friedenfels. After about 4 km, turn right after Poppenreuth towards Friedenfels. After about 3 km, follow the turnoff to "Marktredwitzer Haus" and "Burgruine Weißenstein" on the right. After about 500 m, you will reach the hiking car park on the left.
Opening hours:
freely accessible all year round
