Top 18 Castles around Waldhausen
Best castles around Waldhausen are primarily found in the Waldviertel region of Austria, characterized by its granite rock formations and river valleys like the Kamp. This area is rich in historical fortifications, many of which were built to secure borders and protect against invasions. The landscape features extensive forests and reservoirs, such as the Ottenstein Reservoir, providing a serene backdrop for these ancient structures. Visitors can explore a blend of well-preserved castles, castle ruins, and renovated estates that reflect centuries…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
Schloss Waldreichs
Highlight • Castle
Nothing remains of the original moated castle.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lichtenfels Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Burg Rappottenstein
Highlight • Castle
Rapottenstein Castle tells of …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Waldreichs Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ottenschlag Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Waldhausen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
No Merlot here — the shelf stands empty, quiet, waiting for a bottle that never comes. Kein Merlot hier — das Regal bleibt leer, still, wartend auf eine Flasche, die nie kommt. Pas de Merlot ici — l'étagère reste vide, silencieuse, attendant une bouteille qui n'arrive jamais. No hay Merlot aquí — el estante queda vacío, silencioso, esperando una botella que nunca llega.
0
0
Schloss Waldreichs was first documented in 1258. Around 1400, Kaspar and Bernhard von Waldreichs are mentioned as feudal lords. After its destruction by an executionary army of the estates in 1446–1448, it was rebuilt as a fortress around 1450 under Hans Harrasser. The present-day ruin in the east wing, the chapel, and the eastern tower date from this period. In 1460, it was enfeoffed to Vinzenz Stodoligk. From 1519–1536, it was united with the Lordship of Ottenstein. Between 1530–1534, it was converted into a moated castle under Eustach Stodoligk. From 1533, it was a free property. In 1536, the complex passed to the Barons of Altena, who expanded it with a zwinger and a manor farm. After its conquest and plundering by imperial troops, the complex was rebuilt again and subsequently changed owners frequently. When it passed to Heinrich von Pereira-Arnstein in 1815, it was united with the Lordship of Wetzlas.
0
0
Schloss Waldreichs was first mentioned in documents in 1258. Around 1400, Kaspar and Bernhard von Waldreichs are mentioned as feudal lords. After its destruction by an execution army of the estates in 1446–1448, it was rebuilt around 1450 under Hans Harrasser as a fortress. The present ruin in the east wing, the chapel, and the eastern tower date from this period. In 1460, it was enfeoffed to Vinzenz Stodoligk. From 1519–1536, it was united with the Herrschaft Ottenstein. From 1530–1534, it was converted into a water castle under Eustach Stodoligk. From 1533, it was a free property. In 1536, the complex passed to the Barons von Altena, who expanded it with a zwinger and a manor farm. After its conquest and plundering by imperial troops, the complex was rebuilt again and subsequently changed owners frequently. When it passed to Heinrich von Pereira-Arnstein in 1815, it was united with the Herrschaft Wetzlas.
0
0
If you have time, you should definitely see the castle's interior. But be sure to check the opening hours. You can also stop for refreshments in the castle tavern. Good food!
0
0
our tour to the castle - https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2048966452
0
1
The castle is a very beautiful photo subject, there is a lot to discover here.
0
0
The castle is idyllically situated on the cycle paths and is perfectly embedded in the landscape.
0
0
The best view of the castle is from the large meadow behind it. The best light for photos is in the evening before sunset.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Waldhausen offer a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty?
Many castles in the Waldhausen area are set in picturesque natural surroundings. For instance, Burg Rappottenstein stands proudly on a granite rock mountain in the valley of the small Kamp, surrounded by an atmospheric forest with large rocks. Ottenstein Castle is situated on the northern shore of the Ottenstein Reservoir, offering a scenic backdrop to its historic architecture.
Are there any castle ruins accessible to the public near Waldhausen?
Yes, the Lichtenfels Castle Ruins are freely accessible and located on a peninsula in the middle of the Ottenstein Reservoir. It offers a very picturesque sight, and you can even drive directly into the castle with an MTB.
What kind of historical significance do the castles around Waldhausen hold?
The castles in this region, particularly in the Waldviertel, were often built to secure borders and protect against invasions. Burg Rappottenstein, for example, tells a story of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture and was a stable center for the Kuenringer's property. Ottenstein Castle was originally a Babenberg fortification from the 12th century.
Can I visit the interior of all castles around Waldhausen?
Not all castles allow interior visits. While Ottenstein Castle offers various rooms for events and culinary experiences, Schloss Waldreichs can only be admired from the outside. However, the area housing the Lower Austrian Falconry & Birds of Prey Center at Schloss Waldreichs is freely accessible.
Are there family-friendly activities available at or near the castles?
Yes, several castles are noted as family-friendly. Ottenstein Castle and Schloss Waldreichs are both categorized as family-friendly. Schloss Waldreichs hosts the Lower Austrian Falconry & Birds of Prey Center, which can be an engaging experience for families. The area around Lichtenfels Castle Ruins also features a bathing place and a campsite.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a castle visit in the Waldhausen area?
The region offers numerous outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes around the Ottenstein Reservoir, such as the 'Lichtenfelser Chapel – Lichtenfels Castle Ruins loop' or the 'Ottenstein reservoir – View of Ottenstein Reservoir loop'. For mountain biking, routes like 'Schloss Waldreichs – Gut Ottenstein loop' or 'Lichtenfels Castle Ruins – Ottenstein reservoir loop' are available. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes around Waldhausen guide, MTB trails around Waldhausen guide, and gravel biking around Waldhausen guide.
Are there dining options available at any of the castles?
Yes, Ottenstein Castle is known for its castle kitchen, offering culinary delights whether à la carte or at a knight's dinner. Ottenschlag Castle also features a nice restaurant called 'Im Schloss' for refreshments.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles around Waldhausen?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical grandeur and the serene natural settings. The intricate architecture of places like Burg Rappottenstein and the picturesque views from Lichtenfels Castle Ruins are frequently highlighted. The opportunity to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is also a major draw.
Is there a castle that also serves as an event venue?
Ottenstein Castle is a popular venue for events such as weddings, corporate parties, and knight's dinners, offering a unique historical ambiance for various celebrations.
Are there any castles that are particularly good for photography?
The castles and their surroundings offer numerous expressive angles for photography enthusiasts. Burg Rappottenstein with its granite rock setting and atmospheric forest, and the picturesque Lichtenfels Castle Ruins on the Ottenstein Reservoir, are particularly scenic.
What is the general landscape like around the castles in Waldhausen?
The landscape around Waldhausen's castles is characterized by the Waldviertel region's granite rock formations and river valleys, such as the Kamp. It features extensive forests and reservoirs like the Ottenstein Reservoir, providing a serene and often dramatic backdrop to these ancient structures.
Most popular attractions around Waldhausen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Waldhausen:
