In the midst of the dense greenery of the Waldviertel, you park your car and suddenly find yourself standing before a massive piece of history perched on a steep granite cliff. Rappottenstein Castle was built in the 12th century by the Kuenringers, who were extremely powerful at the time. This stronghold boasts a rather impressive track record, as it has never actually been conquered in all these centuries.
Here, architectural styles ranging from Romanesque to Renaissance blend together, because each generation of lords added a little something new to the castle. It is precisely this intact and completely unspoiled appearance that attracts not only history buffs but also large film and television crews. The old walls simply look stunning on camera.
In 2009, Alexandra Neldel fought her way through the famous blockbuster “Die Wanderhure” here . In 2015, elaborate scenes featuring actors in chain mail were also filmed here for the historical two-parter “Maximilian I,” starring big-name actors like Tobias Moretti.
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Your journey into the ancient walls
Visits are only possible via a guided tour, which lasts about 50 minutes and takes you deep into the history of the complex. The castle season runs from mid-April to the end of October.
Tickets cost 14.00 euros for adults, while seniors and students pay 12.00 euros. Children between the ages of 6 and 15 pay 6.00 euros, and there’s a family combo ticket for 30.00 euros. Be sure to pack your wallet, though, because the ticket office only accepts cash, and there are no ATMs.
Our tip for nature lovers and those looking for a hearty snack
If you want to unwind a bit after your tour through the Dark Ages, the surrounding area offers some really great hikes. Pack some good shoes and hike to the “Schütt” on the Kleiner Kamp, an impressive natural monument full of massive granite boulders. Alternatively, drive a few minutes further to the neighboring poppy-seed village of Armschlag, where you can fill your belly with authentic Waldviertel poppy-seed pastries.
When planning your visit, keep an eye on the local events calendar, as the castle’s spacious courtyard often serves as a stage in the summer. There are regular open-air concerts here, such as cover bands of Ostbahn-Kurti or long guitar nights. From Vienna, you can drive directly to Rappottenstein in just under an hour and 45 minutes via the S5 and B38.
