High above river valleys, deep in the forest or as striking silhouettes on the horizon – Lower Austria's castles and ruins invite you to make discoveries that bring history to life. Their walls tell tales of power and myth, of knightly romance, sieges and views into the distance.
Anyone who visits these places will encounter history within reach – rough, romantic and impressive at the same time.
In the heart of the mystical Waldviertel region, Heidenreichstein Castle rests on a mighty rock outcrop – surrounded by a dark moat, it is the largest preserved medieval moated castle in Lower Austria. Particularly impressive: the castle is still accessible today via two drawbridges – a rare double crossing from solid ground to the moated castle. First you cross the first bridge, then pass through the Renaissance gate and continue over the second bridge: a conscious arrival in another time, before the inner courtyard opens up.
Spectacularly situated on a rocky outcrop 300 metres above the Danube Valley and offering phenomenal panoramic views of the Wachau region – stretching as far as the Jauerling – Aggstein is one of Europe's most impressive ruins and particularly atmospheric when autumn mist rolls through the valley.
High above the Wachau region sits the Dürnstein ruins – world-famous as the prison of English King Richard the Lionheart. The short, sometimes steep climb is rewarded with breathtaking views and the feeling of history beneath your feet.
Located at the entrance to the Vienna Woods and on the northern slope of the Kalenderberg, Liechtenstein Castle impresses with its rocky location and historic neo-Romanesque design. Film fans also know the castle as a filming location – for The Three Musketeers, among others.
