When you stand in front of the castle, you immediately feel transported to another century. The massive complex in the Waldviertel is not a replica, but a genuine piece of history from the 12th century. Unlike many other fortresses, this structure was never captured or destroyed by enemies. Many hundreds of years ago, numerous counts and countesses lived here.
The thick stone walls, the characteristic towers with conical roofs, and the historic machicolations still look almost exactly the same today as they did hundreds of years ago. To even get into the inner courtyard, you have to cross two real drawbridges.
A truly fascinating detail about the history: Heidenreichstein Castle is one of the few noble residences in the Waldviertel region that was neither looted nor devastated in 1945. So you’re walking through genuine, original structures here, not reconstructed rooms. Furthermore, the complex isn’t merely a showpiece, but one of the few Austrian castles that is actually still inhabited year-round.
The current owners, however, have quite pragmatically taken up residence in the outbuildings of the outer bailey. Who can blame them—the massive stone walls of the main castle are simply a bit too chilly in winter and incredibly difficult to heat.
Guided tours and hidden passages
However, you can’t just wander through the corridors on your own here. You can only visit the interior on a guided tour. The regular season runs from late March to early November.
For 11.80 euros per adult, you’ll be guided through the ancient walls for about an hour. If you want to delve even deeper, book an additional tour of the secret passage or the stories of the castle lords for a five-euro surcharge. Tours start Tuesday through Sunday at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
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The complex is now inhabited and maintained by the Kinsky family. Instead of film crews, you’ll occasionally find small theater performances right in the outer courtyard during the summer.
What you won’t find at first glance
If you’re already up in the north, you absolutely mustn’t miss the Heidenreichsteiner Moor Nature Park. It’s practically just around the corner, and admission to the area is completely free.
There, you’ll walk across a massive boardwalk straight through the damp moorland and can take a look at the “Hanging Stone” natural monument. If you want to unwind a bit after the tour, you’ll find the perfect peaceful setting here, far away from the city noise.
From Vienna, it’s best to plan for just under two hours by car. Taking public transportation is a bit more of a hassle. You’ll take the Franz-Josefs-Bahn to Gmünd and then transfer to the regional bus, which takes a total of about two and a half hours.
