Around Austria in Eight Castles
The sun is back, the heat is on, borders are slowly opening up within Europe and life getting back to normal (well at least the new normal). On top of all the news: restaurants have successfully reopened last weekend and hotels are following soon opening in about two weeks. Reason enough to explore Austria’s rich heritage and even live the dream of your own Chateau in an alpine landscape.
I admit, an Austrian castle is not the same as a French chateau and while we are lacking lavender fields and the Mediterranean sea, the following eight castles are real wow-picks in a landscape that hardly gets any prettier. Think of sky-high mountains, turquoise lakes and scenic roads. From medieval knights' castles to elegant manor houses and timeless palaces, this selection includes the finest of Austria’s castle hotels and will make your vacation even more unforgettable.
1
Schloss Glopper
Hohenems, Vorarlberg
This one is a very special find I explored while watching a series about a noble family living in Vorarlberg. I love to write about hotels that have a special story and this one begins with the counts of Waldburg-Zeil who actually play an important role in the history of Austria’s westernmost province. The coolest thing is that they adjusted their business model to the 21st century and besides hosting amazing events in their palace in Hohenems, they rent out two suites at their Schloss Glopper, just minutes outside of Hohenems. Staying in Vorarlberg doesn’t get any more glamorous! Secret highlight: On clear days, you can see Lake Constance.
2
Bergschlössl
St Anton am Arlberg, Tyrol
A very small and chic manor house in the ski resort of St Anton with just eight rooms and a lovely restaurant, plus an intimate atmosphere making this place truly special. While the region of Arlberg is famous for its winter sport, they now decided to also open during summertime, which is a great way to explore the mountains by hiking and mountain biking or even just for road tripping since there are many cool passes around the hotel. Arlbergpass, Lechtal, Haldensee, Bregenzerwald are some examples for a pristine day trip destination.
3
Schloss Friedberg
Volders, Tyrol
It’s a bit hard to find timeless elegance and unique accommodation in Tyrol, with most hotels being very standard, however, Schloss Friedberg is one of the few exceptions. Mostly rented out exclusively for weddings or families, this hidden gem is what I would call the most luxurious place to stay around Innsbruck. What you see is what you get: the suites come with flawless interior design, the bathrooms are state-of-the-art and the garden even features an infinity pool. Make sure to take your cabriolet for a ride to Achensee, Alpbach, Zillertal or posh Kitzbühel.
4
Schloss Prielau
Zell am See, Salzburg
I have always admired the beauty of Schloss Prielau in terms of architecture and interior design, however, when I heard that their restaurant is rated among the best ones in the country, this place turned into a must-go for me. So until I have stayed there, feel free to have a look by yourself and have a look onto their mouth-watering menus or dream of bedding yourself in one of the heavenly beds. Lovely add-on: the hotel even has direct access to Lake Zell so if you don’t mind alpine lakes, dare to dive into the crystal clear water before lounging on the deck chair along with your long-awaited book.
© Seeschlössl Velden
5
Seeschlössl
Velden am Wörthersee, Carinthia
Privacy is key at this unique place to stay on Austria’s most glamorous summer spot, Lake Wörth. There is no possibility paparazzi and fans can look into your little piece of heaven might it be while having breakfast on the stunning lake-view terrace or while sunbathing in the boathouse directly in front of the medieval villa. Thanks to its small size and intimate layout, there is a hidden corner for every guest. This place is truly perfect for everyone that seeks to hide away from the crowds.
6
Schloss Gabelhofen
Fohnsdorf, Styria
After a complete refurbishment, Schloss Gabelhofen looks more amazing than ever and might be the most modern castle hotel in Austria when it comes to state-of-the-art bathrooms, technology and interior design. Their culinary offer is highly rated by restaurant guides, so it’s definitely worth spending the evening inside the beautiful vaulted dining room. Speaking of heavenly beds paired with antique furniture, another reason, why one would come to Murtal, might be Formula 1: Schloss Gabelhofen lies beautifully embedded into the Styrian landscape, just minutes away from Red Bull Ring.
7
Schloss Obermayerhofen
Sebersdorf, Styria
A place that is on my hotel bucket list for a very long time. I mean just look at these pictures, where besides France do you get such sumptuous suites, bathrooms as lavish as these ones and a breakfast room that looks prettier than the one from the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. Needless to say that the lockdown gave me enough reasons to plan a trip to this truly outrageous castle hotel and I can’t wait to explore another one-of-a-kind hotel in my home country. The location is strategically good with fast access to the highway, making it easy to reach from both Vienna and Graz plus there is plenty to see and do around the castle.
8
Schloss Lackenbach - Gästehaus zum Oberjäger
Lackenbach, Burgenland
One of the best finds during the lockdown is this hidden guest house adjacent to the elegant Lackenbach castle. While not being directly inside a castle, I found this place to be unique itself and wanted to share this secret as it fits this road trip wonderfully and Burgenland being worth a visit. To be honest, there is no real hardware such as a spa or pool, however, the region quite comes up for it with lovely restaurants and some of Austria’s most famous wineries. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.