Top 20 Castles around Wartau
Best castles around Wartau are found in a region rich in historical significance, featuring fortifications often perched on elevated positions overlooking the Rhine Valley. The area's most prominent historical structure is the ruined Wartau Castle, a Swiss heritage site located at 650 meters above sea level. This hill castle, with parts dating back to approximately 1225, served as an administrative center and offers insights into medieval architecture. The surrounding landscape provides a setting for exploring these historical sites.
Best castles around Wartau
- The most popular castles is Vaduz Castle, a castle that serves as the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein. This landmark of Vaduz is privately owned and not open to the public, but offers views of the city.
- Another must-see spot is Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle), a castle ruin located on a rock terrace above Vaduz. Visitors can reach it via a forest track and enjoy views of the Rhine Valley.
- Visitors also love Sargans Castle, a medieval castle that towers above Sargans. The complex, first mentioned in 1282, houses the Sarganserland Museum and a restaurant.
- Wartau is known for ruined hill castles and well-preserved medieval castles. The region offers a variety of historical fortifications to see and explore, from ancient ruins to princely residences.
- The castles around Wartau are appreciated by the komoot community, with 582 upvotes and 353 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Vaduz Castle
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Vaduz Castle, formerly also called Hohenliechtenstein, is located on a rocky terrace above Vaduz, the seat of government of the Principality of Liechtenstein. Today it is the town's landmark and the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein.
The time when the castle was built is not certain. Today, however, it is assumed that the first parts of the building were built in the 12th century. The keep was probably built as one of the first structures and was later supplemented by a residential tower which, thanks to dendrochronological studies, can be dated to 1287. In the decades that followed, the facility was successively expanded and extended.
The castle has been owned by the Princes of Liechtenstein since 1712. From 1712 to 1732 it was now called Hohenliechtenstein and served as the seat of the bailiff with official apartments in the west wing. In the decades and centuries that followed, the castle increasingly fell into disrepair, so that the first restoration plans were drawn up at the beginning of the 20th century.
Prince Johann II finally undertook thorough restoration from 1905 to 1912 under the direction of state curator Franz von Wieser from Innsbruck. Alois Gstrein from Brixen worked as master builder. Prince Franz Josef II had it extended and in 1939 he and his family took up permanent residence in the palace.
The palace is privately owned by the royal family and is therefore not open to the public. The reigning sovereign receives state guests and other visitors for private talks in the palace.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Vaduz
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Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake
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Werdenberg is a town with historical town charter in the eastern Swiss canton of St. Gallen. The town of Werdenberg belongs to the municipality of Grabs and is located 0.5 km west of Buchs. It boasts of being the smallest town in Switzerland with around 55-60 residents. Of the around 40 houses, some only serve as holiday homes. Werdenberg is often visited by tourists because of its very well-preserved medieval houses and the museum in Werdenberg Castle. The Werdenberg Castle Festival has been taking place in Werdenberg Castle since 1985.[
The county of Werdenberg included the castle and town of Werdenberg of the same name, the villages of Grabs, Buchs and Sevelen as well as jurisdiction over the Wartau domain (Wartau Castle and village of Gretschins). The noble family of the Counts of Werdenberg split into several side lines in 1277. The actual county of Werdenberg remained with the line of the Counts of Werdenberg-Heiligenberg.
In 1402 they pledged the County of Werdenberg to the Counts of Montfort-Tettnang, from whom it passed to the Counts of Sax-Misox in 1483. In 1485 the city of Lucerne acquired the county and passed it on to the Barons of Kastelwart in 1493. However, the county remained connected to the Confederation through a castle law with Lucerne, even when the county changed hands again to the Barons of Hewen in 1498. Werdenberg also fought on the side of the Confederates in the Swabian War. In 1517 the Barons of Hewen sold Werdenberg to the canton of Glarus for 21,500 guilders.
Glarus administered Werdenberg very strictly as a bailiwick - the Glarus lords were anything but popular in the Rhine Valley. Because of the confusing legal situation between the counties of Werdenberg and Sargans in the Wartau rule, there were repeated disputes between the bailiffs, which in the “Wartau trade” of 1694/95 were brought up to the federal parliament.
With the fall of the old Confederation and the founding of the Helvetic Republic in 1798, Werdenberg became part of the canton of Linth. When this was dissolved again with the mediation constitution of 1803, Werdenberg became part of the canton of St. Gallen.
Text from Wikipedia
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Government Quarter, Vaduz
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Southern town center of Vaduz at the foot of the hillside of the castle forest, bordered by the English building on the north side and the Vaduz parish church of St. Florin on the south side.
In the late Middle Ages, on this section of the Reichstrasse Lindau–Milan below Vaduz Castle, there was a manorial court, the manorial (own) chapel of St. Florin with court chaplaincy buildings, the so-called Tschaggaturm (→residential towers) and a small customs house; The court sessions and the Landammann elections for the County of Vaduz took place near the nearby lime tree. Poeschel suspects that this is the center of the gaugrave's, later Werdenberg's, possessions in the Vaduz area. Since the 16th century, the area, which was originally located away from the village, has developed into the so-called official quarters (today the government district) through the settlement of manorial and later state authorities.
In 1585 the erection of a «Cantzley» building is mentioned for the first time, which may have been the Landvogtei or today's Rheinbergerhaus. The latter is occupied as an office building in 1617/19, in the 18th/19th In the 19th century it was the office and residence of the pension master, later the seat of the princely domain administration; since 1968 it has housed the Liechtenstein Music School. The bailiff, also mentioned in 1617/19, was the residence (with interruptions in the 18th century) until 1918, and until 1865 also the official seat of the bailiff (or the provincial governor from 1848). The Estates Parliament also met in this building, known as the Verweserhaus, from 1818 to 1862. Until the 19th century, between the Verweserhaus and the Rheinbergerhaus, there was the former manorial courtyard with the «Schellahüsli», which served as a prison.
The Verweserhaus is attached to the former stately tavern that was built around 1500. This also served as a customs building from 1637 and as a government building from 1865 to 1905. The Liechtenstein National Museum has been located here since 1972. To the north of it, the Estates House was built in 1866-67 as a meeting place for the state parliament, which also housed the offices of the regional courts, judges' apartments and a prison bar. It was used as a secondary school from 1905, as a state library from 1961 and demolished in 1970. Between 1903 and 1905, today's government building with the state parliament hall was built between the administrator's house and the parish church built in 1872 (also the cathedral since 1997). Other official buildings in the government quarter are the Schädlerhaus (today, among other things, the registry office), the Liechtensteinische Landesbank (1952), the state archive (1962) and the post office and administration building (1975).
A project by the Ticino architect Luigi Snozzi, which emerged from an urban planning ideas and project competition (1984-87) to redesign the entire area between the English building and the parish church, was rejected in a referendum in 1993. The new state parliament building planned by Hansjörg Göritz (Hanover) was built in 2002-07 between the administration building and the government building, adopting Snozzi's basic urban planning idea (hillside development). The extension of the State Museum (1999-2003) by the architects Brunhart, Brunner, Kranz (Balzers) and the new construction of the archive and administration building (2006-09) by the architects Keller and Brander (Vaduz) complete the hillside development.
Author: Michael Pattyn
historisches-lexikon.li/Regierungsviertel
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Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle)
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Sargans Castle
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The Sarganserschloss was first read in a document as early as 1282. In 1386 its owner, Count Johann I (called "Count Hans" for short) fought on the side of Austria near Sempach against the Confederates. Two years later he planned to take part in the battle against the Glarus people at Näfels, but luckily he did not appear with his people on the Kerenzerberg until the meeting had already been decided.
After the Old Zurich War, Sargans became subject to the Confederates. From then on (from 1459 to 1798) they administered this property as a common rule. 181 bailiffs replaced each other one after the other in the Sarganserschloss (each after a two-year term of office). The order of their appearance can still be read on the coat of arms that adorns the city side of the mansion: Zurich, Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Zug and Glarus. (After the Villmerger Wars, from 1712, also Bern.)
The castle has belonged to the local community of Sargans since 1899. Architect Eugen Probst renovated it sensibly at the turn of the century. In 1969/70 the facade, the ring walls and the retaining walls were subjected to another renovation with the help of Heimatschutz and the federal government and the canton of St. Gallen. A visit to the old manor house and the Sarganserländisches Heimatmuseum in the tower are worthwhile!
Text: Pedagogical Publishing House LLZ
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Vaduz Castle, "Landmark of Vaduz" Vaduz Castle is the landmark of Liechtenstein's capital city and is visible from afar. Vaduz Castle sits perched approximately 120 meters above the city of Vaduz. The castle's origins likely date back to the 12th century. The keep was probably one of the first structures built and was later supplemented by a residential tower. This residential tower can be dated to 1287. It is first mentioned in historical records in 1322. It came into the possession of the House of Liechtenstein in 1712 and, under the name Hohenliechtenstein, served as the seat of the Landvogtei (bailiwick) with official residences in the west wing until 1732. Afterward, it fell into increasing disrepair, and it was not until 1905 to 1912 that it underwent a thorough renovation and restoration. Prince Franz Josef II then had it expanded and made habitable. In 1939, he moved in with his family and took up permanent residence there. Visiting: The castle is not open to the public. A glimpse inside the castle can be seen in the film "Princely Moments" at the Alte Kino Vaduz (Old Cinema Vaduz). Text / Source: Official Tourism Website of the Principality of Liechtenstein https://tourismus.li/map/poi/schloss-vaduz-8fb7e6cf-99b5-4ffb-b600-9e4c66398e1f.html
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Schalun Castle, also known as the Wildschloss (Wild Castle), can be reached from Vaduz in about an hour along a steadily ascending forest track. Along the way, you'll also pass the new viewing platform. From the castle, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Rhine Valley. Source: Schalun Castle (Wild Castle) - Official Tourism Website of the Principality of Liechtenstein https://share.google/etl2VY6VLRFX8CUZh
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...also known as the Wildschloss (Wild Castle) is definitely a highlight. It's only a ruin, but it's a great place to rest and there's even a barbecue area.
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Sargans Castle is definitely worth a visit!
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The state's government district is located on the east side of the spacious Peter Kaiser Square. Since 2008, the government building, the state parliament building and the state archive have formed the newly designed government district with the impressive Peter Kaiser Square.
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The royal family resides high above the city. Even though you can't go into the castle itself, you can still enjoy a great view of Vaduz from up there.
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High above the capital Vaduz, on a mountain spur, lies the castle-like Vaduz Castle. The castle, which is not open to the public, was probably built in the 13th century and is now owned by the Princes of Lichtenstein. The mighty keep, with its 4-meter-thick walls, is remarkable and immediately draws the viewer's attention. A footpath leads from a free car park to the castle's exterior. Even if you can't go inside, it's still worth a visit.
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Vaduz Castle is owned and inhabited by the princely family. The castle is therefore not open to the public. But around the castle you will find many beautiful places to rest and enjoy the panorama. www.fuerstenhaus.li
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main historical castle in Wartau itself?
The primary historical structure within the municipality of Wartau is the ruined Wartau Castle. This impressive hill castle, a Swiss heritage site, stands prominently at 650 meters above sea level on the St. Martinshügel, east of Gretschins. Its wooden beams date back to approximately 1225, and it offers insights into medieval architecture and a commanding view of the Rhine Valley.
What other notable castles can be visited near Wartau?
Beyond Wartau Castle, you can explore several other significant fortifications. Sargans Castle is a medieval castle housing the Sarganserland Museum and a restaurant. The historic town of Werdenberg features a well-preserved castle and is known as Switzerland's smallest town. Additionally, the Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) above Vaduz offers great views.
Are there any castle ruins to explore near Wartau?
Yes, the region is rich in castle ruins. The most prominent is the Wartau Castle ruin itself. Another significant ruin is the Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle), located on a rock terrace above Vaduz. Both offer a chance to explore medieval history and enjoy scenic views.
Which castles offer the best views of the Rhine Valley?
Many castles in the region are strategically located for commanding views. Wartau Castle offers extensive views from its elevated position. The Vaduz Castle, though not open to the public, provides a great vantage point over Vaduz and the valley. The Schalun Castle Ruins also boast magnificent views of the Rhine Valley from its rock terrace.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Wartau?
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. Sargans Castle is family-friendly and includes a museum. The historic town and castle of Werdenberg, with its well-preserved medieval houses and museum, is also a great family destination. While Vaduz Castle is privately owned, its surroundings are family-friendly for walks and enjoying the views.
Can I visit Vaduz Castle?
Vaduz Castle is the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein and is privately owned. It is not open to the public for interior visits. However, you can walk up to the castle grounds and enjoy the impressive exterior and the panoramic views of Vaduz and the surrounding area.
Are there dining options available at or near the castles?
Yes, you can find dining options. Sargans Castle houses a restaurant that is open from March to December. In the historic town of Werdenberg, there is a bistro in the castle courtyard. For other castles, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby towns and villages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Wartau offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including routes like the "View of Wartau Castle Ruins – Glacier Mills Sevelen loop". There are also many cycling routes, such as the "Historic Old Town of Maienfeld – Fläsch Vineyards Path loop". For mountain biking enthusiasts, trails like the "View of Sevelerberg – View of Kreuzberge loop" are available. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Wartau, Cycling around Wartau, and MTB Trails around Wartau.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Wartau?
Yes, the area is excellent for hiking. Many trails lead to or past the castles, offering scenic views and historical exploration. For example, you can hike to the Wartau Castle ruin or take a forest track to the Schalun Castle Ruins. For more hiking and running options, explore the Running Trails around Wartau guide, which includes routes that pass by historical sites.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Wartau?
The castles and surrounding areas are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the weather is pleasant for exploring ruins and hiking. During these seasons, you can fully appreciate the scenic views and outdoor activities. While some castles might be accessible in winter, certain trails could be challenging due to snow or ice.
What historical significance do the castles around Wartau hold?
The castles in this region, particularly Wartau Castle, served as administrative centers for royal estates and witnessed various conflicts and changes in ownership throughout centuries. They were crucial in controlling the Rhine Valley and often played a role in disputes between powerful noble families. Castles like Werdenberg Castle were central to historical counties and bailiwicks, reflecting the complex political landscape of medieval Switzerland.
How can I reach the castles around Wartau by public transport?
Many towns near the castles, such as Sargans, Buchs, and Vaduz, are well-connected by public transport. From these hubs, local buses or short walks can often take you to the castle sites. For example, Schalun Castle Ruins can be reached via a forest track from Vaduz. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes to each castle.
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