Schloss Neuschwanstein Travel Forum

I have read that you can walk from the Point and the Bridge downhill to the Castle. One posting said that elderly people should avoid this path as it is steep. I am travelling with my 75 year old mother who is very active. Can anyone tell me if this path is truly too steep? Thanks in Advance. Victoria (montana@sympatico.ca) London, Ontario Canada

I walked UP to the castle to give the horses a break (poor things!), in my twenties, and it's an exercise, especially under a hot sun! even for active people.

I don't remember walking DOWN from the Jugend but it's 1,312 feet to the castle and the official site says "not suitable for anyone who has difficulty walking and elderly people." I would take their word for it.

The view from Marien Bridge is awesome. It's 295 feet above the Gorge and could give anyone vertigo. I did that "hike" but wouldn't take my active mother there.

Then there are 170 steps INSIDE the castle, better save some energy :)

We went up to the castle, and if it is the same path it was not only that it was steep, but there were some large root stumps on the way, and exposed areas did not have hand rails - so it's not only the climb, but the terrain is not the best - and will be much worse if it rains.

Nomad

One of my grandmothers could have done it in her late 80s. The other could not have done it in her 40s. It depends on what condition she is in and how much she enjoys walking.

Have you talked to her about it? Perhaps you could find some photos here on VT to give you a better idea of what to expect. Try the VT Search Window above and do a Keyword Search (scroll the second window from Destination to Keyword). You might show the photos to your mother and help her make a decision.

Good luck.

It is steep and one mistake could ruin a wonderful holiday. Even if your mother is exceptional. At that age bones break very easily and take a long time to mend.

Don't think twice, take the bus.

Thanks to everyone who responded to my question. I will take your advice and use the bus system to avoid any potential problems.

Victoria
October 08, 2007

You're welcome Victoria :) Happy Thanksgiving Day!