Watched over by a fairytale-like castle on top of a mountain, this city on the banks of the Rhine has quaint riverfront resorts and an enchanting local myth.
Explore the rambling streets of Koenigswinter in the Rhine Valley and learn about the legend of the dragon that resided in the mountain on the city’s southern edge. A ruined 12th-century castle stands sentry over the city and gives the banks of the Rhine a dramatic backdrop. Take the old-fashioned train to the Drachenburg (Dragon Mountain) and explore the bordering forests.
Get acquainted with Koenigswinter’s captivating streetscapes by strolling around the town center. This jewel of the Rhein-Sieg district has a long history as a summer resort and has some fine examples of 19th-century architecture. Examine the imposing façade of St. Remigius Church and the Koenigswinter Town Hall. Go for a walk along the banks of the Rhine River and admire the pretty riverfront resort villas. Visit the Siebengebirgsmuseum to learn about the region’s heritage. Kids will enjoy the Sea Life Aquarium, which has a wide array of aquatic critters.
You’ll be transported to medieval North Rhine-Westphalia when you see the 12th-century castle ruins on top of Drachenburg. Make the journey to the summit via the 19th-century cogwheel Drachenfels Railway. Admire the sweeping views across the historic city, which entranced writers such as Lord Byron. You’ll see pine-studded hillsides dropping into the Rhine Valley as you rise toward the mountaintop. On the north side of the mountain, see the 19th-century Drachenburg Palace.
The forests of the Siebengebirge hills are wonderful for a sunny day of exploring. Bring a picnic and head to the Margarethenhöhe or check out the views of the forests’ highest hilltop, Ölberg. Wander to the ruined castles of Löwenberg. There are traditional pubs and restaurants serving up hearty German fare in and around the parkland.
Koenigswinter is situated a short distance southeast of Cologne. The resort town can be reached within 40 minutes by car or train from the region’s major city. Bonn and Siegburg also have easy connections to Koenigswinter. Visit in summer for a getaway by the Rhine River or in winter to see the dramatic hillsides shrouded in mist.
