Discover Laurenburg in the Lower Lahn Valley

Laurenburg lies in the Lower Lahn Valley between the Taunus and the Westerwald. The Lahn is used for water sports, boating trips and fishing. On land, there is an extensive network of hiking trails, and the illuminated riverside promenade is popular for evening strolls. River activities and trails on land therefore offer different ways to explore the area. The history of the castle and winegrowing adds to the range of topics to discover during a stay.

Water activities on the Lahn

Just below the Lahn bridge is a slipway for motorboats, for which a fee is charged. As fees and operating rules may change, check them before making any specific use of the facility. Canoes for paddling trips on the Lahn are available to rent from the Gasthof zum Lahntal, including a pick-up and return service. Ask there about current availability and arrangements.

A public water-skiing course, which is free of charge, is located outside Laurenburg. It operates seasonally, so check access before setting out. The Lahn, the water-skiing course and the slipway offer different ways to spend time on the water, but not all of them are in town.

Hiking and cycling

The Lahnhöhenweg trail passes through Laurenburg. Downloadable leaflets with maps at a scale of 1:25,000 are available for eight described hikes. If you are planning a specific route, check in advance whether the relevant leaflet is available. The extensive network of trails and the illuminated riverside promenade add to the options: hiking trails make longer excursions possible, while the promenade is popular for evening strolls.

Cyclists can reach Laurenburg from Geilnau via two newly built cycle and pedestrian bridges on the Lahn Cycle Path. As route infrastructure may change, check the route before setting out.

Laurenburg Castle and its history

The first documented mention of Laurenburg Castle dates from 1093. Count Dudo of Laurenburg appears among the witnesses in a charter of Maria Laach Abbey. The medieval castle is considered the cradle and ancestral seat of the House of Nassau, whose descendants include the Dutch royal family and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. After Nassau Castle was built, Dudo’s heirs were known as Counts of Nassau from 1157 onward.

The restored castle complex includes a knights’ hall with an informative military museum. The attraction is currently closed until further notice. Below the castle stands Laurenburg Palace, set within a landscaped park. From the early 18th century, it served as a summer residence for the Princes of Anhalt-Bernburg-Schaumburg-Hoym. The castle and palace are distinct places: historic Laurenburg is the medieval castle, while Laurenburg Palace lies below it.

Winegrowing history and guided tours

The historic vineyard below the castle walls has been partly restored and replanted. Guided tours around Laurenburg and Scheidt visit traces of medieval vineyards and historically significant themed stops. The KRIMME route also links the history of winegrowing with the way to the castle: it climbs up to Laurenburg Castle and passes the remains of medieval vineyard walls.

A tour exploring the history of the vineyards can be combined with a Lahn.Wein.Probe wine tasting in the courtyard of Laurenburg Castle. Check the availability and booking conditions for the tour and tasting in advance. This lets you choose between a themed walking tour and adding a tasting when planning your visit.

Getting your bearings and train information

Laurenburg (Lahn) station has a map showing the station, platform and surrounding area. The station also provides an overview of upcoming departures and arrivals; PDF notices show train departure times. The map helps you find your way around on site, while departure and arrival information helps with travel planning. Check timetable information shortly before your journey.

Discover more destinations: Aull, Hirschberg, Steinsberg, Heistenbach, Gückingen, Dörnberg, Birlenbach, Holzappel.

For the main travel overview: Diez.