Burg Eltz is a fairytale style castle that is still fully in tact. Definitely the most beautiful castles other than Neuschwanstein that I have ever seen.

The castle is the only one I have seen that sits in a valley, rather than on a hill top. You would think that this would have made the castle vulnerable to attack during the many wars of the Medieval time period. Surprisingly enough, the castle was never touched and remains in operation today.

Eltz is open to visitors from 1 April through 1 November. They offer guided tours every 10-15 minutes that last approximately 40 minutes. The guided tour is the only way to see the interior of the castle. There is a fee for the tour.

Inside the castle is a "treasure vault" that can be toured as well for a small fee. The treasure vault is a museum of artifacts and takes about half an hour or longer to go through. Definitely worth the 2.50.

Burg Eltz has 2 self service style resteraunts as well as a souvenir shop inside the main walls.

A visit to Burg Eltz is definitely an unforgettable experience, but be prepared to walk. Parking is some distance from the castle. There is a shuttle bus, but the walk was a better experience. Be fair warned, the hill from the parking area to the castle is a formidable one.

After you are finished touring the castle and grounds, I recommend a walk through the woods. There is a walking trail that will take you through the shaded forest back to the parking area...and the hiss aren't as bad.

Burg Eltz is off of Autobahn 48 at the Munstermaifeld evit...follow the signs. For more information, visit the castles web site (in English and German) by clicking the castles icon below.