History and Culture:

If you are new to the Kandern area, you may be unaware of how much history, castles, and natural beauty are packed into the surrounding countryside. Vineyards and trails and creeks and castles are waiting for you just outside the borders of our small village.

The area around BFA is filled with history, scenic trails, and a surprising number of castles waiting to be explored. Two of the most accessible are Sausenberg Castle just outside Kandern and Rötteln Castle in Lörrach. Both offer a mix of medieval ruins, hiking paths, and stunning views of the Black Forest and Rhine Valley.

These two castles can be visited in a single day if you’re up for a longer hike or as separate half-day adventures. Bring your walking/hiking shoes, water, and some snacks to maximize the day. Hiking these castles is not only a chance to enjoy the Black Forest landscape but also a unique way to connect with the region’s rich history and local character.

Sausenberg Castle sits on a hill above Kandern, dating back to the 13th century. The ruin is 45-60 minutes of moderate hiking out of Kandern following scenic, winding trails. Once there, you can explore the keep, courtyard, and remaining walls, with panoramic views of Kandern, the surrounding countryside, and across into France. Many students, past and present, have loved the adventure this local castle offers.

A little further north, Rötteln Castle dominates the hills above Lörrach. Larger and more extensively preserved than Sausenberg, it is one of the most important castles in the region. Its impressive towers and walls overlook the town and the Rhine plain, offering breathtaking vistas. On clear days, the Jura Mountains in France and Bernese Alps in Switzerland are clear to see. Trails through Lörrach and nearby suburbs make it accessible to hikers from Kandern. You may also drive and park at the foot of the castle. A small fee gives you access to the museum on-site, the towers, and the castle’s interior.

Both castles can be visited in a single day if you’re up for a full day of hiking or as separate half-day adventures.