Who would have thought that the most famous bloodsucker in film history made his rounds right on our doorstep? The massive walls in South Moravia are not only of interest to historians but have served for decades as a popular film set for major international productions and TV classics.
Just under two hours’ drive from Vienna stands a medieval fortress that has never been conquered by enemies in its 800-year history. While many historic sites have been significantly altered or destroyed over time, this structure has retained its defensive character. We are talking about Pernstein Castle (Hrad Pernštejn) in the Czech region of South Moravia.
From a Gothic castle to the Renaissance Pernstein Castle
Built in the early 13th century, the complex served as the ancestral seat of the powerful Lords of Pernstein. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle was significantly expanded and transformed into a stately palace in the Renaissance and Late Gothic styles.
Particularly ingenious: The complex defense system, with its deep moats, massive walls, and winding approaches, made the complex virtually impregnable. Even the Swedish troops failed miserably against the thick gates during the Thirty Years’ War.
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Vampires and eccentric Hollywood stars
Probably the most famous international guest to walk its ancient halls was director Werner Herzog. For his cult film “Nosferatu the Vampyre” from 1979, he used the building as Count Dracula’s gloomy castle.
The eccentric actor Klaus Kinski once walked as a pale vampire along those very wooden galleries that you can still explore today on your tour.
Tours, hearty snacks, and deep forests
If you want to explore the architecture inside, you can choose from various guided tours. The basic tour lasts about 50 to 80 minutes and costs around 260 CZK (approx. 10 euros) for adults.
Since the guided tours are usually conducted in Czech, you’ll be handed detailed brochures in German or English beforehand. After the tour, your stomach will likely start to rumble.
Right next to the large visitor parking lot, you’ll find a small tavern where you can refuel with a hearty snack and a cold beer. In the nearby village of Nedvědice, there are also quaint taverns serving delicious lunches.
A stroll through the castle park
The area surrounding the fortress is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The recently restored historic landscape garden (Vrchnostenská zahrada) invites visitors to take a leisurely walk.
Those with a bit more stamina can start right at the Nedvědice train station. From there, a 1.5-kilometer hiking trail (follow the yellow markers) leads through the woods up to the complex.
Along the route, you’ll repeatedly enjoy an excellent view of the stone structure and the surrounding landscape. The perfect subject for your camera.
🏰 Location: Pernstein Castle (Hrad Pernštejn)
📍 Address: 592 62 Nedvědice, Czech Republic (approx. 2-hour drive from Vienna)
💶 Admission: Basic tour approx. 260 CZK (approx. 10 euros), castle courtyard only approx. 60 CZK (2.40 euros)
🕒 Opening hours: Regularly from April to October (usually closed on Mondays). Please note: The interior is closed from November to March!
