Burg Haideck

Burg Haideck stands on a hill 768 metres above sea level north of Trochtelfingen in the Reutlingen district. Built early in the 12th century by the Lords of Haideck, it appears in records from 1139 and was demolished in 1311. Today only the earthen rampart and surrounding ditch remain of the once large fortress. Historians Günter Schmitt and Christoph Bizer have studied the site in detail. Schmitt’s guide describes how walkers can reach the ruins across the West Alb plateau. Bizer’s work lists pottery and metal finds recovered from the slopes below the walls. Visitors follow a short woodland path to the top of the hill. The rampart curves gently around the flat summit where grass and wild thyme grow. From the centre of the old keep there is a wide view east across the Alb plateau to the Swabian Jura. The quiet of the hilltop contrasts with the valley below.