Wine, beer...and Rhine castles !

Since the most ancient times, the history of wines and hops has been closely linked to that of the castles.

It is therefore only natural that Alsace Destination Tourisme and its partners in Alsace, Switzerland and Germany are offering a series of unique events combining conviviality, architectural heritage and wine and beer production as part of the Châteaux rhénans 2023-2025 Interreg project.

On the program:

From Thursday to Sunday, until October
Gourmet Hike in Oberkirch (Germany)
Embark on a hike "from hell to paradise" through the vineyards surrounding the town of Oberkirch. Along the way, enjoy a four-course meal paired with wines chosen to complement each dish.
Paid activity, reservation required. In German.
Contact: Renchtal Tourismus GmbH – Tel. +49 (0)7802 82600 or info@renchtal-tourismus.de

On June 4 & 18, July 2 & 16, August 6 & 20, and September 17, from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m.
Afterwork DJ Sunset at Staufenberg Castle in Durbach (Germany)
Dance at sunset to DJ music, surrounded by vineyards. Wine-based cocktails and barbecue round out this relaxing evening.
Free admission. No reservation required.
More information: https://www.schloss-staufenberg.de

On 22 July and 5 August, from 5pm to 9pm, a medieval storytelling walk to Birkenfels Castle, at the foot of which a master brewer will offer tastings of 3 local craft beers (fruit juice for children) highlighting the know-how of Alsatian hop growers and the quality of their production. 4 hours of contemplative walking for adults and accompanied children aged 10 and over. Packed lunch. Registration and payment ONLINE at www.tourisme-obernai.fr and at the Obernai tourist office via info@tourisme-obernai.frLieu. Meeting point: take the D426 towards Mont Ste Odile - Parking SAEGMUEHLMAETTEL - after VORBRUCK D426 Klingenthal-Mont Ste Odile. Prices: €15/adult - €5/10-12 years.

From September 3 to 9
Open-Air Cinema above the Vineyards at Staufenberg Castle in Durbach (Germany)
Enjoy a romantic moment with wine and castle delicacies, bathed in the golden light of late summer.
Free admission. No reservation required.
More information: https://www.schloss-staufenberg.de

On June 5 and September 4, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Wildegg Castle (Switzerland)
Led by wine academic and experienced sommelier Lidwina Weh, this tasting session features six wines (historic and modern 2025 varietals), paired with fine cheeses.
You’ll also gain insights into the history and future of viticulture.
Also included: a guided tour of the new wine trail at the castle, showcasing centuries-old winegrowing practices.

Admission & Tickets
Price: CHF 79.– per person
Included: Wines, cheese, bread, water, and a guided tour of the wine trail.
Tickets available from the Museum Aargau online shop.
Limited availability (registration deadlines: May 30 or August 28, 2025).
Minimum group size: 20 people
Minimum age: 16 years

More info & registration:
https://www.museumaargau.ch/schloss-wildegg/event/1835

On September 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Medieval Day at Hohengeroldseck Castle in Seelbach (Germany)
Craftspeople showcasing traditional skills, guided tours, live music, and a wide variety of local specialties for all ages.
Admission: Adults €4.00 ; Students and pupils €3.00
Free for children aged 15 and under

On September 20 and 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tulip Bulb and Local Flavours Market at Wildegg Castle (Switzerland)
Browse and sample rare and historic tulip bulbs, regional and seasonal artisan products such as cheese, wine, craft beer, preserves, and fruit-based goods—all produced under sustainable and fair food standards promoted by ProSpecieRara and Slow Food.
More information:
https://www.museumaargau.ch/schloss-wildegg/event/483
Workshops available via reservation with Slow Food Switzerland:
www.slowfood.ch

Fridays June 6 & 27, and Wednesdays July 23 & August 13, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.
Guided Sunset Tour of Lichtenberg Castle with Craft Beer Tasting
(Re)discover Lichtenberg Castle at sunset, followed by a tasting of the “1206” — a craft beer brewed exclusively for the castle — served with a pretzel.

August 23–24 and September 6–7
Escape Game “Bierburg Game” in Ferrette
More info: www.visit.alsace

September 13–14
Escape Game “Bierburg Game” at Hohlandsbourg Castle

October 3, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Baden Family Festival at Staufenberg Castle in Durbach (Germany)
Live music, autumn delights, and guided tours of the wine estate.
Free admission. No reservation required.
More information: https://www.schloss-staufenberg.de

This project has received €2.9m in European co-financing from the ERDF as part of the INTERREG Upper Rhine programme.