Mariastein Youth Hostel

Just like 500 years ago: climb 150 steps between tall trees and you'll reach the steep ridge of the Blauen mountain before heading through a gate into the castle courtyard. Behind walls that are metres thick, you can dine in the knights' hall, which has an open fire, and sleep as the nobles once did, in a bedroom behind a massive wooden door. From the battlements you can see Mariastein nearby, a place of pilgrimage, and enjoy a view across the green hills and forests towards Basel. What's more, you can watch particularly impressive sunsets here. If you'd like to add a few more knightly experiences to your stay, a trip to the ruins of Landskron Castle or a castle hiking tour through the Leimen valley are highly recommended.