Top 15 Castles in Viamala
Castles in Viamala offer a glimpse into centuries of local power struggles and architectural evolution within a dramatic gorge landscape. The Viamala region is known for its deep gorge and rich history, providing a backdrop for these historical structures. These sites range from ancient settlements to well-preserved edifices and atmospheric ruins. They highlight the strategic importance of the area in controlling transit routes.
Best castles in Viamala
- The most popular castles is View of Hohen Rätien Castle Ruins, a castle considered one of Switzerland's oldest continuously inhabited settlements with a history spanning over 4000 years. Its strategic location high above the Viamala Gorge highlights its past importance in controlling transit routes.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Splügen Castle, a hilltop castle located at an altitude of 1,518 meters. A detour to these 13th-century castle ruins offers fantastic views of the town of Splügen and the surrounding mountains.
- Visitors also love Cagliatscha Castle Ruins, the ruin of a hilltop castle in the municipality of Andeer. These ruins are notable for their visual appeal and offer a pleasant rest area nearby.
- Viamala is known for its diverse range of castles, including ancient settlements, well-preserved historical sites, and atmospheric ruins. The region offers a variety of experiences, from structures transformed into youth hostels to those renowned for culinary excellence.
- The castles in Viamala are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and 50 photos shared.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
View of Hohen Rätien Castle Ruins
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Ruins of Splügen Castle
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Rietberg Castle
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Rietberg was the seat of the Lords of Rietberg, who are mentioned in a document dated July 29, 1286 as vassals of the Lords of Sax-Misox and are attested several times in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the course of the 14th century they are mentioned as ministerials of the Bishop of Chur. They owned property in Domleschg, Schams and Chur.
In the marriage contract with his wife Berta von Rhäzüns in 1320, Johann von Rietberg stipulated that Berta should own the castle until her death. In 1343, however, he transferred other property to his wife and in 1348 handed it over to the Lords of Landenberg, who were related to him, along with his fiefdom. Johann von Rietberg died on September 5, 1349. Hermann von Landenberg was unable to enforce his inheritance claims and renounced them in favor of the Bishopric of Chur in 1352.
In January 1354, the bishop issued several documents at the castle. The Lords of Rhäzüns and Lumerins, however, made further claims; the final payment was not made until 1388, after decades of disputes.
The bishop appointed burgraves as administrators; Eglolf von Juvalt is mentioned in 1384. In the following period, a long series of mortgages, with the mortgage amount constantly increasing, ultimately cost the bishop the property. After several changes of ownership, the castle came into the hands of Anton von Travers in 1530, and through his heirs in 1554 to Herkules von Salis (1503–1578). In 1617, the property was divided: one half remained with the Salis, the other went to Pompejus Planta, the leader of the Catholics, who was related to the Salis by marriage. In the turmoil in the Grisons, Planta was murdered on February 25, 1621 by Jörg Jenatsch and his like-minded friends at Rietberg Castle. The crime was later made into a literary work by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer in the novella Jürg Jenatsch. In 1664, Rietberg was sold to Colonel Christoph von Rosenroll from Thusis for 9,000 guilders, and in 1670 to the von Buol family. In 1758, the Buol-Schauenstein family bought Planta's share, thus ending the previous division.
Other owners in 1798 were the Prince-Bishop of Chur, Karl Rudolf, who wanted to set up a seminary there. The invasion of French troops in the Three Leagues prevented the plan. Rietberg was owned by Countess Emilie von Travers in 1802, the Cadonau from Waltensburg in 1803, then Colonel von Bergamin from Obervaz and again by Countess von Travers in 1822. In the same year, Pastor Christian Casparis acquired the castle. In 1917, it passed to the Rudolf Planta-Casparis family through marriage.
Text: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Rietberg
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Schauenstein Castle
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An episcopal Meierhof as the origin of Fürstenau
The episcopal power in Domleschg was probably already developed in the epoch of the Frankish Empire, in the first millennium. The incompletely preserved Reichsurbar (list of goods and taxes of the imperial rule) from 831 shows that a ministry Tumliasca (bishop's administrative apparatus Domleschg) existed. This faced a vicedominus with judicial authority. It is conceivable that the episcopal administration was originally based in Hohenrätien ob Sils i.D. had, but had been moved to one of the three Carolingian royal courts of Scharans, Almens and Tomils early on. Presumably an administrative officer (Meier) of the bishop took up residence in Baumgartenland Maros near Fürstenau. The name Maros goes back to the Latin word ad majoranem, the accusative of maiora (= dairy farm or farmstead). From this, the name Mairaus developed via ad maioranes, which as a name for Fürstenau first appears in documents in the first half of the 12th century.
The development of the city
In the course of the 14th century, the sovereign large castle acquired a modest urban character as a result of the denser settlement of the outer bailey. A document from 1383 testifies that the main castle was in front of the bridge to a bailey (lat. atrium). Peasant and artisan subjects lived here, who were responsible for the supply of the lords of the castle, and, as the House of Stoffel shows, apparently also knightly servants.
Architectural and political developments are interrelated. In the middle of the 14th century, the diocese of Chur not only managed to obtain market privileges, but also a place of jurisdiction for blood justice. King Charles IV had Bishop Ulrich V (1331-1355) present a diploma on May 13, 1354, which gave Fürstenau the right to jail, sticks and gallows, as well as the holding of two annual markets on St. Michael's and St. George's Day . This meant that Fürstenau had also become a city in a legal sense. Its expansion from 1354 coincides with that of the castle mentioned in 1272.
The town was not only of great importance as a trading and market place, it had also risen to become the center of princely possessions in the upper part of the Domleschg. So the castle has clearly proven itself as a strong attraction.
Around 1300, a territorialization process began in the Graubünden area, which had a significant influence on political events up until after 1450. Noble dominions such as that of the Lords of Rhäzüns supplemented or overlaid the episcopal dominion. Neither party had a closed territory.
As early as the first half of the 14th century, Fürstenau was drawn into the maelstrom of the episcopal power struggles. The few surviving documentary mentions of Fürstenau should be seen in this context: In 1333 the bishop promised the lords of Rhäzüns 1000 marks, four hundred of them through Fürstenau Castle, which was then pledged. In 1347 the castle served as security so that the bishop would go back into the captivity of the Count of Tyrol, from which he had been released. Fürstenau was then handed over to Walter von Stadion. In 1351 an arbitral tribunal had to decide the dispute over Fürstenau Castle between the bishop and the Counts of Montfort. Finally, in 1367, Fürstenau was occupied by the cathedral chapter and the bishop's vassals. In 1387 it regained great importance in connection with the expansion of the Septimer Pass by Johann von Castelmur.
Text: City of Fürstenau
fuerstenau.ch/Portrait/History
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Sins Castle
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A castle with a changing face: Sins Castle in Paspels, which is just over 300 years old.
Paspels Castle was probably built by Jahn Victor von Travers-Ortenstein around 1695. Parts of the main wing probably date from this time, although they can no longer be identified. Around 1730, the builder's son of the same name seems to have carried out extensive reconstruction. This reconstruction is probably the basis for the overall layout of the current complex, especially the staircase. It is considered the presumed birthplace of Pompejus Planta, who became known as an opponent of Jürg Jenatsch.
Further modifications were carried out by Lieutenant General Victor von Travers, who also had the chapel built on April 25, 1760 in honor of the names of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. The last major renovation took place in 1892/93 under Colonel Freidrich von Tscharner (later at Ortenstein) with a redesign of the exterior. The architect was Nicolaus Hartmann sen., St. Moritz. In 1911, ownership was transferred to Minister F. von Salis-Soglio. Sins Castle was run as a hotel until 2012.
Text / Source: Viamala Tourism, Bodaplatz 4, 7435 Splügen
viamala.ch/de/ausflugsziele/schloss-sins
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Cagliatscha Castle Ruins
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burgenwelt.org/schweiz/cagliatscha/object.php
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Alt-Süns Ruins
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In 1216, the powerful Barons of Vaz built their first castle in the mild Domleschg outside their ancestral castle Nivaigl in Vaz, from there fifty years later they built Ortenstein and even later Neu-Süns, which we usually call Canova. With the heir Ursula von Vaz of the last Baron, the property went to the Counts of Werdenberg-Sargans. In the Schams Feud of 1451, the barely inhabited castles of Alt-Süns and Neu-Süns collapsed when half of the tower was undermined. Since then they have been a picturesque eye-catcher in the Domleschg castle landscape.
Text: Pro Castellis
pro-castellis.ch/ruine-alt-s%C3%BCns-1216
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Obertagstein Castle Ruins and Cliffside Toilet
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de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Obertagstein
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View of Ehrenfels Castle
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Opening hours: The youth hostel is open from May to October and is available for groups of 20 or more. The outdoor area is always accessible.
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View of Ortenstein Castle
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There is speculation as to when exactly the castle complex was built. It is assumed that the foundation stone was laid in the 13th century. Today, Ortenstein is privately owned.
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Tips from the Community
Great hike! Bring a walking stick. ...
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It is a youth hostel. The keep probably dates back to the 13th century.
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This castle is located 250m above the Oden valley. It is privately owned and is very well preserved. Inside there is seating and a fireplace. Entrance fee is 5 francs to help maintain this beautiful castle.
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The ruins are great to look at.
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The publicly accessible Splügen castle ruins are located on a rocky peak east of the village of the same name. The castle can only be reached without a motor vehicle; it takes about ten minutes to walk from the village. There are various theories about when the castle was built, but the latest research suggests that it was built around 1340 by the Counts of Werdenberg-Sargans.
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The Höhen Rätien Castle is a hilltop and church castle high on the rock at an altitude of 946 metres above the entrance to the Viamala Gorge. It is located in Sils im Domelschg Hinterrhein Graubünden. It is one of the oldest cultural and settlement sites in Switzerland.
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Ehrenfels Castle is a youth hostel in Sils im Domleschg in the Hinterrhein region of Graubünden. The castle is a hilltop fortress at an altitude of 761 meters and was built around 1200. In 1257, Baron Albrecht von Sax purchased the castle from the Pfäfers Abbey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the castles in Viamala historically significant?
The castles in Viamala are historically significant because they offer a glimpse into centuries of local power struggles, architectural evolution, and the strategic importance of controlling transit routes through the dramatic Viamala Gorge. Sites like Hohen Rätien Castle are considered among Switzerland's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, with a history spanning over 4000 years.
Are there any unique castle experiences in the Viamala region?
Yes, the Viamala region offers unique castle experiences. Ehrenfels Castle, once a ruin, has been transformed into a youth hostel, offering a unique opportunity to stay within a historic castle. Schauenstein Castle is renowned as a culinary stronghold, blending historical architecture with high-end gastronomy.
Which castles offer the best scenic views in Viamala?
Many castles in Viamala offer fantastic scenic views. Hohen Rätien Castle provides breathtaking views high above the Viamala Gorge. The Ruins of Splügen Castle offer fantastic views of the town of Splügen and the surrounding mountains. Cagliatscha Castle Ruins are also noted for their visual appeal.
How can I reach the castles in Viamala using public transport?
While specific public transport details vary for each castle, many are accessible. For example, the Ruins of Splügen Castle are easily accessible from Splügen village on a small road, about a ten-minute walk. For other sites, it's advisable to check local bus schedules to nearby villages and plan short walks from there.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Viamala?
Yes, several castles in Viamala can be enjoyed by families. The transformed Ehrenfels Castle, now a youth hostel, can be an interesting visit for groups. Exploring ruins like Cagliatscha Castle Ruins often includes pleasant rest areas, making them suitable for family outings. The general historical context and scenic locations can also engage children.
What is the best time of year to visit the Viamala castles?
The best time to visit the Viamala castles is generally from spring to autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and hiking trails are more accessible. This period allows for comfortable exploration of both the castle sites and the surrounding natural landscapes. Visiting in winter can offer a unique, snow-covered perspective, but some paths might be more challenging.
Are there dining options or cafes near the Viamala castles?
Yes, dining options are available. Schauenstein Castle in Fürstenau is a prime example, renowned for its high-end gastronomy. In general, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the villages surrounding the castles, such as Sils im Domleschg, Thusis, and Splügen, offering local cuisine and refreshments.
What outdoor activities can I do near the Viamala castles?
The Viamala region offers a variety of outdoor activities near its castles. You can enjoy extensive hiking, with routes like the 'Hiking trophy: in the footsteps of the Romans along the Viamala' or the 'Feldis Panorama Trail'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Plazzas Trail' and 'Alter Schin Historic Trail'. Road cycling routes, like 'Runda Schams', are also available. For more details, explore the hiking, MTB, and road cycling guides for Viamala.
Are there easy hiking trails around Viamala castles?
Yes, there are hiking trails of varying difficulties. While some castle approaches might be intermediate, you can find easier options. For instance, the 'Feldis Panorama Trail' is listed as an easy hiking route in the Viamala region, which could be combined with visits to nearby historical sites. Always check the specific trail difficulty before setting out.
Can I visit the Viamala castles in winter?
Visiting Viamala castles in winter is possible, offering a serene and often snow-covered landscape. However, accessibility to some ruins or viewpoints might be limited due to snow and ice. It's advisable to check local conditions and opening hours, especially for sites like Ehrenfels Castle, which operates as a youth hostel from May to October.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles worth exploring in Viamala?
Beyond the most popular sites, the Viamala region holds several lesser-known but intriguing castles. The Rietberg Castle, with its eventful history including the murder of Pompejus Planta, offers a deep dive into medieval narratives. The Sins Castle and the nearby Neu Sins ruins, with its unique round tower, also provide fascinating historical insights.
What should I bring when visiting the Viamala castles, especially if hiking?
When visiting the Viamala castles, especially if you plan to hike, it's recommended to bring sturdy walking shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather (layers are always good), water, and snacks. A camera is a must for the scenic views. If exploring ruins, a flashlight might be useful. For longer hikes, consider a map or a GPS device, and check weather forecasts beforehand.
Are there any castles in Viamala that are dog-friendly?
While specific rules for dogs vary by site, many outdoor castle ruins and their surrounding trails in Viamala are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. For example, the trails leading to the Ruins of Splügen Castle or the Cagliatscha Castle Ruins are often suitable for walks with dogs. Always be respectful of other visitors and local regulations.
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