4 Best Sights in Braubach, The Rhineland

Rising high above the town, the dramatic 12th-century Marksburg Castle—part of a Unesco World Heritage Site—makes for some breathtaking vistas from above and below. Unlike other castles along the Rhine, which suffered in the various wars and battles, Marksburg is the only one to survive undamaged. A marvel of medieval architecture, the castle functioned mostly as a strategic base and not a family seat, but its enormous kitchen, Gothic dining hall, painted chapel, armory, and truly medieval torture chamber, with a gruesome collection of perversely imaginative instruments, are all fascinating remnants of life in the 14th and 15th centuries. There is a gift shop and a café offering drinks, light snacks, and meals at the castle.

Now part of the Zum Weissen Schanen (White Swann) hotel, this farmer's museum, lovingly restored by the inn's owner and open all day for free to the public, displays antique agricultural implements, examples of pottery from over the centuries, and an ancient kitchen. Close by on the premises is a well-preserved 800-year-old-mill that was once the property of the Counts of Katzenelnbogen.

This central square is surrounded by beautifully restored half-timbered houses that create the perfect atmosphere for strolling, browsing in shop windows, or enjoying a meal or drink in one of several inviting outdoor terraces. Number 1 Markplatz, dating from 1670, has an unusual wrap-around gallery, and No. 13 is one of the oldest houses in Braubach, dating from 1450. In December, the square hosts a delightful Christmas market.

This historic 16th-century castle, whose courtyard is paved with stones from the Rhine, was built in 156871 as nobleman's estate and later to house the widow of Philipp II, it's first owner. A wine cellar in the inner courtyard is still in use. Opposite the cellar you'll find a charming renaissance garden, restored to the original 1607 plans. The castle now houses the European Castles Institute, whose notable library contains over 25,000 volumes about every known castle in Europe, which can be visited by appointment.