Salzburg Castles
Mighty walls, historic courtyards, and sweeping views make Salzburg’s castles exceptional destinations. They tell stories of centuries past and invite you to discover history in various ways.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Everything at a glance
Distance from Gut Weissenhof: approx. 70 km
Travel time: about 60 minutes
Best season: open year-round
Special features: one of Europe’s largest fully preserved hilltop fortresses, museum, views over Salzburg
Fee / Ticket: admission required for fortress and museum
Experience Description
Hohensalzburg Fortress towers high above the city of Salzburg. The view up to the castle alone shows how closely history and landscape are intertwined here—a special destination that combines wonderfully with a stroll through the city.
Once at the top, a sweeping 360-degree view opens up over Salzburg and the surrounding mountain landscape. Historic rooms, ramparts, and exhibitions tell of the fortress’s eventful history since its construction in the 11th century. Particularly noteworthy are the magnificent princely chambers, the multimedia “Magic Theater,” and every Sunday from 11:45 AM to 12:00 PM, historic trumpet pieces resound from the fortress during the Salzburg Tower Fanfare.
The fortress can be reached by the FestungsBahn funicular or on foot via a walking path through the old town.
More information about Hohensalzburg Fortress can be found here
Hohenwerfen Castle
Everything at a glance
Distance from Gut Weissenhof: approx. 31 km
Travel time: about 25 minutes
Best season: April to November
Special features: audio guide, historic castle complex with birds of prey park, armory, daily falconry shows
Fee / Ticket: admission, funicular lift, and programs are subject to fees
Experience Description
High above the Salzach Valley lies Hohenwerfen Castle, telling stories of many centuries of history. Its impressive location on the rock makes it a special destination for an excursion in the region.
Inside, exhibitions guide visitors through the history of the castle and its inhabitants. A particular highlight is the falconry demonstrations, where eagles, falcons, and other birds of prey display their flying skills and provide insight into the ancient hunting tradition. From the viewing points around the castle, a sweeping view opens up over the valley and the surrounding mountains.
The castle is easily accessible by car. From the parking area, a short path leads up; alternatively, the funicular lift takes you directly to the castle complex in just a few minutes.
Mauterndorf Castle
Everything at a glance
Distance from Gut Weissenhof: approx. 37 km
Travel time: about 35 minutes
Best season: open year-round
Special features: audio guide also for children, interactive stations and costume opportunities, engaging family tours, defensive tower with views over Lungau
Fee / Ticket: admission, funicular lift, and programs are subject to fees
Experience Description
At Mauterndorf Castle, history is not merely told but made tangible. The medieval toll castle from the 13th century invites you to embark on your own journey of discovery through towers, ramparts, and historic chambers.
With the included audio guide, also available for children aged 6 and up, you meet the former castle lord personally and learn how people lived, worked, and defended themselves here. Those wishing to immerse themselves even deeper can participate in guided tours that bring medieval life vividly to life.
The castle is easily accessible by car. Parking is available in the immediate vicinity.
Fort Kniepass
Everything at a glance
Distance from Gut Weissenhof: approx. 100 km
Travel time: about 1 h 18 minutes
Best season: open year-round
Special features: interactive adventure trail on the theme of “borders,” longest and highest tube slide in the Alps, historic walls, dining with regional cuisine, and workshops
Fee / Ticket: admission is subject to a fee
Experience Description
Fort Kniepass is not a traditional castle complex but a place where history, activity, and experience come together. The historic fortress in the Saalachtal has been modernized and invites you to explore the theme of “borders” on an interactive adventure trail.
Particularly exciting for families is the varied circular route with interactive stations for participation and reflection. For an extra thrill, there is the longest and highest tube slide in the Alps, which leads directly from the complex down into the valley.
