The Swabian Alb has one of the highest concentrations of castles and palaces of any region in Europe. Almost 400 are still in existence or known to have existed, and more than 100 of them are currently open to the public. Imperial and royal dynasties (the Hohenstaufens and the Hohenzollerns) have their origins in this region.

Majestic palaces, romantic castles and ruins crowning prominent peaks and hilltops and teetering an crags and valley rims are unmistakable features of the Swabian Alb. Towns such as Tübingen, Bad Urach, Heidenheim, Göppingen, Haigerloch, Sigmaringen and Ellwangen with their palaces and castles are ideal bases for fascinating tours. Views of wild, romantic ravines take you on a journey into the past, into the origins in the Swabian Alb of two imperial dynasties, the Hohenstaufens and the Hohenzollerns, who shaped the fortunes of both Germany and Europe.