Four Castle Hotels you simply must visit
The beautiful season is a time of dreams, desires, and yearnings. As the sun shines longer, the air grows warmer, and nature awakens, we are drawn out into the world. We want to discover new things, find inspiration, and create unforgettable memories. And what better way to do that than at a Castle Hotel? Castle Hotels are places filled with history, charm, and magic. They embody a world of the past while offering modern comforts and timeless elegance. These are places where uniqueness matters, the character of the establishment and host is clearly tangible, and you experience the essence of true hospitality.
In this article, we embark on a journey to four Castle Hotels, a journey that grants you unforgettable summer moments. Each of these hotels has its own distinctive charm and special features. No two are alike. Which is what sets Schlosshotels & Herrenhäuser apart. Emanating extraordinary power, each offers a variety of activities in breathtaking surroundings to make your stay unforgettable. Our journey takes us via city, countryside, and river.
1. Schlosshotel by the river - Raffelsberger Hof in the Wachau
The Wachau is a region of breathtaking beauty, stretching along the mighty Danube River. It is famous for its picturesque vineyards, historic towns, and unparalleled nature. Whether you are seeking the peace and solitude of the countryside, wanting to experience the culture and history of the towns, or immersing yourself in the pleasures of wine, the Wachau truly has something for everyone.
And there's hardly a better place to experience this region than Renaissance Hotel Raffelsberger Hof. It is the perfect starting point and retreat amid all your adventures in the Wachau. Originally built as a shipmaster's house in 1574, the hotel is now run by the Anton-Krupp family and offers a unique atmosphere that fascinatingly combines history and modernity. The attention to detail and dedication with which the hotel has been renovated and furnished can be felt in every room. Antiques and craftsmanship tell their own story and give the hotel its special charm. The Raffelsberger Hof is the ideal base for exploring the Wachau. Here, you can first experience the beauty of the region and then relax in the tranquility of the garden, perhaps while leafing through a good book.
Three tips for your stay at the Raffelsberger Hof in Weissenkirchen on the Danube
Excursion to Aggstein Castle Ruins
A trip to the ruins of Aggstein Castle is a must for all enthusiasts of history and culture. The impressive castle complex towers majestically above the Danube and affords breathtaking views of the Wachau. Meanwhile, a guided tour of the ruins provides fascinating insights into the region's history.
Wine Tasting at Historic Weingut Prager
Weingut Prager is a place where the history of wine comes alive. As early as the Middle Ages, Grüner Veltliner and Riesling grapes were grown on the slopes of the Wachau. The Prager family has continued this tradition and now produces wines of exceptional quality. The Riesling, in particular, impresses with its elegance and aroma of white peaches. A wine tasting at the Prager winery is an extraordinary experience for all the senses. By appointment only.
Cycling Through the Wachau
A bike tour through the Wachau is simply a must. And what an experience it is! The bike path along the Danube leads past seemingly endless wine terraces and through charming villages with historic buildings. We suggest stocking up on a selection of local specialties and enjoying a picnic in the countryside.
2. Schlosshotel at the foot of the Dolomites - Parkhotel Sole Paradiso
Parkhotel Sole Paradiso in Innichen, built in 1882, is a true gem at the foot of the breathtaking Dolomites. With its charming architecture and location close to the historic town center, it offers guests an unparalleled stay. The rooms and suites are cozy and stylishly furnished, and the house exudes a magic that you simply must experience for yourself. This establishment, with its refreshing brand of splendor and over 140-year history, captures the heart of everyone who enters.
Three tips for an unforgettable summer at Parkhotel Sole Paradiso
The Dolomites are well worth the journey, both winter and summer. Here are three tips for an unforgettable summer at Parkhotel Sole Paradiso.
Bike Tour to Lake Prags
Nestled in the breathtaking Fannes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park is Lake Prags - a wildly romantic rocky basin surrounded by majestic peaks, most notably the imposing Seekofel. Often referred to as the pearl of the Dolomite lakes, it is undoubtedly the most beautiful lake in the entire region. It is a place that invites you to linger and dream as the sparkling water gently sways in the wind and the surrounding nature shines in all its colors and multifarious facets.
A Culinary Journey in Innichen
A culinary newcomer making a splash in the picturesque town of Innichen is specialty and delicatessen store "Flora Gourmet." Born from the passion of hotelier Franz Ladinser, here you will find a unique collection of high-quality foods from near and slightly farther away. And besides the incredible delicacies, there's also a feast for the eyes. Flora Gourmet won the BIG SEE Interior Design Award 2023.
Hiking, Hiking, Hiking
When in the Dolomites, there's no way around taking a hike in this magnificent mountain world. One special tip is a hike on the famous "Tre Cime Trail." This hiking loop leads along the famous Tre Cime, one of the most well-known landmarks of the Dolomites, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The hike is challenging, though also immensely rewarding for experienced hikers who want to experience the beauty of the Dolomites firsthand.
3. Castel Rundegg - Schlosshotel in Merano
We stay in South Tyrol and head to Merano, where the Alps meet the Mediterranean climate. Mountain panoramas beneath palm trees – what sounds almost a contradiction in terms, is, in fact, an enchanting reality in Merano.
Nestled amid the breathtaking landscape of the Alps and set in a magnificent garden park, you will discover Hotel Castel Rundegg. A place with a storied history, where the elegance of bygone times merges with modern accents, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and peace. Here, you can escape everyday life and feel completely free. Whether you opt for relaxation in the wellness center with indoor and outdoor pools or want to lose yourself in the fascinating mountain world of South Tyrol, Hotel Castel Rundegg is the perfect oasis for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Three tips for an unforgettable summer in Merano
Relax by the private pool in the garden
Yes, sometimes it can indeed be that simple. Lie in the sun, cool off, and read a book. What more could we possibly add.
A Visit to the Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens
The Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens are one of the most beautiful attractions in Merano. Spanning an area of 12 hectares, the gardens treat visitors to an incredible variety of plants from around the world. Exotic plants, tropical vegetation, unique giant trees, and much more. Additionally, you will discover a butterfly house and an amphitheater where concerts and other events take place during the summer.
Merano High Mountain Trail
The Merano High Mountain Trail is an unforgettable experience for hikers. The trail extends through the mountains for over 100 kilometers and offers breathtaking views of South Tyrol's magnificent alpine landscapes.
4. Schloss Mittersill - high up in the Alps
Schloss Mittersill sits majestically atop a hill, exuding an aura of history and elegance. One glance at the imposing structure hints at the historical personalities who once frequented it – from Henry Ford to Coco Chanel. But the Schloss is not just a relic of the past; it is also a place of modernity and relaxation. With great attention to every detail, it has been transformed into a unique gem that embodies the symbiosis of tradition and modernity to perfection. The splendor of bygone days is almost miraculously combined with modern amenities such as a fabulous wellness area and an outdoor pool. The Kitzbühel Alps also offer unforgettable experiences during the summer, putting Schloss Mittersill in a class of its own.
Experience summer at Schloss Mittersill
Adventures by E-bike
Enjoy 2,000 km of pure cycling pleasure between the Hohe Tauern and the Kitzbühel Alps. Imposing three-thousand-meter peaks, mountain lakes, high valleys, lush alpine meadows, wild waterfalls, and breathtaking views await. Explore the most beautiful spots in Salzburger Land with an Ebike available to borrow right there at Schloss Mittersill.
Golf Hotel Schloss Mittersill
Passionate golfers will be in a Seventh Heaven of their own here. Benefits for guests of the Schloss include discounted green fees at the golf course, tee-time reservations, golf carts at all regional golf courses, free shuttle service to the Mittersill-Hollersbach-Stuhlfelden golf course, and dedicated storage space for golf equipment as well as cleaning facilities at the hotel.
Excursions from Schloss Mittersill
Numerous highlights and adventures await in the vicinity of Schloss Mittersill. Whether city tourism, cultural experiences, moments in nature, or shopping expeditions, there is something for everyone. Plan your next vacation and explore the most beautiful destinations surrounding Mittersill.