Top 13 Castles around Strass im Zillertal
Best castles around Strass im Zillertal are situated in a region known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty. The area, encompassing the broader Ziller and Inn Valleys, features a collection of historical castles and impressive ruins. These structures offer insights into Tyrol's past, with some located directly within the municipality and others easily accessible nearby. The landscape provides a backdrop for exploring these cultural sites.
Best castles around Strass im Zillertal
- The most popular castles is View of St.…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
View of Lichtwerth Castle from the Inn Cycle Path
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Tratzberg Castle
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Freundsberg Castle
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Matzen Castle
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Kropfsberg Castle
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If I'm interpreting this correctly, you have a view of several castles or fortresses from this vantage point. However, anyone looking for Lichtwerth Castle will only find it in a few of the uploaded pictures. Most of the images show Kropfsberg Castle, which stands on a hill jutting out into the Inn Valley and is largely a ruin. Lichtwerth, on the other hand, sits in the middle of a meadow on the plain and is well-preserved. To clear up any confusion: Beyond Lichtwerth, on the other side of the main road, more towards Brixlegg, is the larger Matzen Castle, which is now a hotel and also houses an upscale restaurant in its courtyard. It also boasts a large, beautiful park.
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Together with the castle park, it forms an impressive ensemble.
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Imposing castle in the Inn Valley
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A stately castle and estate where you can stay in style, eat fine food, and take a leisurely stroll through the park.
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The castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The castle cannot be visited freely; it can only be visited as part of a guided tour.
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But unfortunately it is not the fortress of Kufstein!😉😉
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The Renaissance Jewel Among Austria's Castles and Fortresses Tratzberg Castle was first documented in the 13th century and served as a former border fortress against Bavaria. Emperor Maximilian used Tratzberg as a hunting lodge, but the original fortified castle was completely destroyed by fire in 1492. The emperor did not rebuild Tratzberg but instead exchanged the ruins for a castle belonging to the wealthy silver mine owners, the Tänzel family. In 1500, they erected the first late Gothic section of the present-day Tratzberg Castle in an unusually magnificent and lavish manner, furnishing it with extraordinarily artistic marble, wood, and ironwork. In 1554, the wealthy Augsburg merchant Georg Ritter von Ilsung acquired the castle, expanding and altering it in the spirit of the Renaissance. Through inheritance, Tratzberg became the property of the well-known and wealthy Fugger merchant family, who further embellished the castle. The magnificently painted inner courtyard and most of the furnishings still preserved today, as well as the exquisite Renaissance rooms, date from this period. After several changes of ownership, Tratzberg remained uninhabited for almost 150 years. Through the marriage of Count Franz Enzenberg to Countess Ottilie Tannenberg, the by then almost derelict castle passed into the possession of the Counts Enzenberg in 1847, and it has remained their private residence ever since. To this day, it is only thanks to the great dedication of the family that the approximately 6,800 square meter Tratzberg, with its 5,000 square meter shingle roof, has once again become the epitome of a 16th-century Tyrolean castle and thus one of the most important artistic and cultural monuments in the region, open to the public. Text / Source: Tratzberg Castle, Tratzberg 1, A-6200 Jenbach https://www.schloss-tratzberg.at/geschichte/
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The eventful history of Tratzberg Castle: What began more than 500 years ago as a small fortified settlement has developed into one of the most beautiful and best-preserved Renaissance castles in Austria. Tratzberg Castle frequently changed hands, suffered many setbacks, and was continually expanded. Today, Tratzberg Castle is one of the few castles still privately owned and even serves as the residence of the Count Goëss-Enzenberg family. Text / Source: Tratzberg Castle, Tratzberg 1, A-6200 Jenbach https://www.schloss-tratzberg.at/geschichte/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles offer the most immersive historical experience?
For a deep dive into history, Tratzberg Castle is highly recommended. It's one of Austria's most beautiful and best-preserved Renaissance castles, still privately owned by the Count Goëss-Enzenberg family. You can explore its opulent interiors and learn about its 500-year history. Another excellent choice is Freundsberg Castle, which houses a local history museum documenting the development of Schwaz and its silver mining industry, complete with 15th-century wall paintings.
Are there any castle ruins to explore near Strass im Zillertal?
Yes, the Kropfsberg Castle Ruin is one of the largest in the region, located in Reith im Alpbachtal. While not open to the public, its impressive three-towered ruins can be admired from the outside, offering a dramatic historical vista, especially during hikes.
Which castles are particularly family-friendly?
Tratzberg Castle offers a special tour for children where they can meet a real knight, and the "Tratzberg Express" miniature train takes you from the castle inn up to the castle, adding to the fun. Matzen Castle, with its surrounding Matzen Park, is also great for families to stroll and enjoy the outdoors.
Are there any castles with beautiful gardens or parks?
Matzen Castle is embedded in a magnificent English garden known as Matzen Park. This 15-hectare park features picturesque ponds and exotic plants, making it one of Tyrol's most beautiful cultural landscapes and ideal for leisurely strolls.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Strass im Zillertal offers various outdoor activities. For running, you can explore routes like the "Lion Statues at Matzenteich – Matzen Castle Park loop" near Matzen Castle. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the "Zillertal cycle path" or more challenging routes like "The cycle bridge near Rotholz – Walderalm loop." Find more details on these and other routes in the Running Trails around Strass im Zillertal and Cycling around Strass im Zillertal guides.
Which castles offer scenic viewpoints?
Freundsberg Castle, perched on a steep hill south of Schwaz, offers sweeping views of the Inn Valley. Similarly, the View of St. Georgenberg Monastery provides magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the Stallental valley from its picturesque rock-top location.
Is there a castle that is still actively used today?
Yes, Thurneck Castle (Schloss Rotholz), located directly in Rotholz, was built as a hunting castle in 1576. Today, it houses the Rotholz Agricultural School, making it a functional historical building within the community.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles?
The castles are generally enjoyable from spring through autumn when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours for exploration, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Visiting in winter can offer a unique, snow-covered landscape, but some outdoor areas or specific castle tours might have reduced hours or accessibility.
Are there any castles that are less crowded?
While popular sites like Tratzberg Castle attract many visitors, exploring the ruins of Kropfsberg Castle or the grounds of Thurneck Castle (Schloss Rotholz) might offer a quieter experience, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays. The Matzen Park surrounding Matzen Castle also provides ample space for peaceful exploration.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?
Many castles, especially the more popular ones, have facilities nearby. For instance, St. Georgenberg Monastery has a popular pilgrimage stop with an inn known for its sunny terrace. Matzen Castle has the Matzen Inn directly next to it. Freundsberg Castle also has its own guest house where you can relax after a visit.
What is the historical significance of Fügen Castle?
Fügen Castle, located in the main village of Fügen in the Ziller Valley, is a striking Baroque palace. Its oldest sections date back to the mid-16th century, built by Georg von Keutschach. It features a marble round arch portal, a large inner courtyard, and a beautiful 17th-century style interior with a castle chapel from 1681, showcasing the region's rich architectural history.
How accessible are the castles by public transport?
Many castles in the region are accessible by a combination of public transport and a short walk. For example, Tratzberg Castle is near Jenbach, a transport hub. However, for the most flexibility, especially when visiting multiple sites or more remote ruins like Kropfsberg, a car is often recommended. Always check local bus schedules for specific routes to the castle vicinities.
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