This hike takes pictures of a mysterious ruin deep in the Palatine Forest. While there are several “Frankenstein” Castles, this is probably not the one that inspired Mary Shelley. It is located on a large rocky outcrop surrounded by a small horse-shoe valley. This allows for the opportunity to take pictures from various angles. The castle itself is also quite interesting and is far better preserved than most other ruins in the Palatine Forest. There are also excellent forest views, and the hike can be easily adapted to include nearby peaks.

How to Get Here:

• Direct Regional Train from Kaiserslautern, Mannheim/Heidelberg to Frankenstein (Pfalz) Station. Can also be reached on the regional public transit system (S1 and S2 between Mannheim and Kaiserslautern).
• Hike Starts at the Train Station

Photography Note: The best view of the castle is when the sun is still rising in the east. I would start heading east. Despite looking into the sun for the first part, it will give you better picture opportunities.