The town of Stäffeles is known far beyond the district's borders for its picturesque medieval townscape. Built in the 13th century as a protective castle, the Old Castle towers like a crown over the half-timbered houses of Altensteig's old town. Today, the fully preserved complex is home to an impressive museum of local history and local history, which regularly organises special exhibitions. With its Alemannic and Franconian half-timbering, the house itself is the most valuable exhibit. The "German Half-Timbered Road" themed route takes visitors past the picturesque old town. Also worth seeing are the demonstrations by the Upper Nagold Valley Rafting Guild, which keep the craft and historical significance of rafting alive to this day. In 2012, Altensteig was named the International Rafting Town.
Historic townscapes in Altensteig and Berneck, numerous cycling and hiking trails, two indoor swimming pools and an outdoor pool offer variety for guests and residents alike. Music, theatre, sport - Altensteig is the "cultural capital" of the region. Chamber orchestras, big bands and many small ensembles enrich the cultural programme, as does the Christophorus Choir, which performs internationally. The Altensteig Music Summer, a top-class music festival, brings professional, internationally successful musicians into dialogue with local talent.
Altensteig is not only a cultural, architectural and scenic gem, but also the centre of a cultural landscape that has grown over decades and an attractive business location. As a modern small town with a dynamic sub-centre with a healthy mix of trade, crafts, services and industry.
