Top 12 Castles around Bezirk Murau
Best castles around Bezirk Murau are found in Styria, Austria, a region rich in history and natural beauty. This area features a diverse landscape, from high-altitude ruins offering panoramic views to well-preserved Renaissance structures. Visitors can explore historic castles and castle ruins that showcase centuries of architectural and cultural development. The region's castles provide insight into its past as a strategic border area and a center of noble families.
Best castles around Bezirk Murau
- The most popular castles is Steinschloss Castle Ruins, a castle that originated in the 12th century. This impressive ruin is the highest castle ruin in Styria, offering spacious grounds and beautiful views from its historic walls.
- Another must-see spot is Obermurau Castle, a prominent Renaissance castle. Visitors can explore its rich interiors, including a picture gallery, Knight's Hall, and a tapestry collection, typically through guided tours.
- Visitors also love Schloss Forchtenstein, a medieval castle converted into a residential palace. Its foundation dates back to the 12th century, and it now serves as a hostel and event location.
- Bezirk Murau is known for historic castles, castle ruins, and reconstructed medieval-style structures. The region offers a variety of castles to see, from well-preserved Renaissance palaces to high medieval spur castle ruins.
- The castles around Bezirk Murau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 110 upvotes and over 250 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Steinschloss Castle Ruins
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Gatehouse of Schloss Goppelsbach
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Obermurau Castle
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Schloss Forchtenstein
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Hungerturm and the ruins of Grünfels Castle
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The castle was originally called "Lubathein" and was probably built at the same time as Murau under Ulrich I von Liechtenstein. In 1269 it was destroyed by King Ottokar of Bohemia. Otto II of Liechtenstein had it rebuilt in the 14th century. The keep, the residential building, the remains of the fortifications with the hunger tower and the moat have been preserved to this day.
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Oberwölz
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Alt-Teufenbach Castle
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Schloss Lind
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Steinschloss Castle Ruins
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Puxerloch Cave Castle Ruins
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The ascent and the castle itself require surefootedness and a head for heights. The view from here is also great.
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The Forchtenstein Castle stands as a medieval castle, architecturally located at the northwestern corner of the market fortification of Neumarkt in Steiermark in a high valley between the Seetal Alps to the east and the Grebenzen to the west. The name of the Forchtenstein Castle in Neumarkt is said to be derived from the Old High German "forhten" (to fear) and Stein. The economic basis of the castle's dominion has since time immemorial been the collection of toll revenues and the utilization of toll rights. In 1956, Forchtenstein Castle was leased by the European Federalist Movement. Since then, the castle has been an international meeting place, an ideas workshop, and an educational center for the cross-party promotion of European federalism and European integration. Under the idea: "May this castle, in the literal and figurative sense of the word, be a fortress of the European idea!", the castle continued to be operated until 2018. In 2018, the castle was transferred by the previous owner, EFB Steiermark, for a symbolic amount to the EYFON Foundation (European Youth Forum Neumarkt). The Forchtenstein Castle consists in its core of a four-story tower house in the northwest. Defensive walls and other buildings are attached to the tower house in an elongated rectangle. In the southeast, there is a building connected to the "city wall".
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Quick question, since we're traveling with a dog, the Steinschloss hike is also described as a hike without cow contact, is that really true? :-)
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You can easily cycle past this ruin because it is untraceable. (I have searched the entire area, see photos with almost impassable paths)
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Impressive view of the valley, upstream of the Mur.
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The archway belongs to the Goppelsbach Castle behind it. The Mur cycle path leads through the archway and then continues along the property next to the Mur.
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Excerpt from Wikipedia: In 1530, Wilhelm von Moosheim bought land from the Gurk Collegiate Foundation in Friesach and began building Goppelsbach Castle. This was completed in 1595 by Seifried von Moosheim. In 2005, the former third president of the Austrian National Council, Thomas Prinzhorn, acquired the castle and the associated 800 hectare forest. The archway belongs to this castle.
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Very nice here, I liked it very much
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles offer guided tours in the Murau region?
You can take guided tours at Obermurau Castle, which provide insight into the Schwarzenberg family history and the castle's rich interiors. Steinschloss Castle Ruins also offers guided tours on Wednesdays. Burg Finstergrün, though just outside the immediate district, also provides guided tours.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Bezirk Murau?
Yes, Oberwölz, a small historic town with a well-preserved medieval appearance, is considered family-friendly. Burgruine Dürnstein also hosts 'castle adventures' with historical storytelling and campfires during summer months, which can be engaging for families.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views?
For breathtaking views, visit Burgruine Dürnstein in Neumarkt in der Steiermark, which is built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mur valley. Steinschloss Castle Ruins, the highest castle ruin in Styria, also provides impressive vistas along with its historic walls.
What kind of historical significance do the castles in Bezirk Murau hold?
The castles in Bezirk Murau showcase centuries of history. Schloss Murau, for instance, was rebuilt as a Renaissance palace by the Schwarzenberg family. Burgruine Dürnstein was a significant border fortress between Styria and Carinthia, dating back to the 11th century. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past as a strategic area and home to noble families.
Are there hiking opportunities near the castles in Bezirk Murau?
Absolutely! Many castles are situated in scenic areas perfect for hiking. For example, Steinschloss Castle Ruins can be reached by a short walk offering beautiful views. You can find various hiking routes in the region by exploring the Hiking around Bezirk Murau guide or the Easy hikes around Bezirk Murau guide.
When is the best time of year to visit the castles in Bezirk Murau?
The warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September), are ideal for visiting the castles. During this time, the weather is pleasant for exploring ruins and enjoying outdoor activities. Some castles, like Obermurau Castle, offer guided tours specifically from June to September.
Are there any unique or reconstructed castles in the region?
Yes, Burg Finstergrün, though slightly outside the immediate district, is a unique example. It was rebuilt in the early 20th century in the style of a 13th-century castle, offering a romanticized medieval experience. Schloss Forchtenstein, originally a medieval castle, was converted into a residential palace and now serves as a hostel and event location.
Can I find geocaching points at any of the castles?
Yes, both Burgruine Dürnstein and Steinschloss Castle Ruins have geocaching points, adding an extra layer of adventure for those who enjoy treasure hunts and outdoor activities.
What are the operating hours for Obermurau Castle?
Obermurau Castle can only be visited as part of a guided tour. From June 3 to September 30, tours are typically available every Wednesday and Friday at 2 p.m. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current schedule.
Are there cycling routes near the castles in Bezirk Murau?
Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find road cycling routes around Bezirk Murau that might pass by or near some castles. Explore options in the Road Cycling Routes around Bezirk Murau guide for more details.
What is the Gatehouse of Schloss Goppelsbach?
The Gatehouse of Schloss Goppelsbach is a modern replica of the Friesacher Tor in Murau, marking the entrance to the castle area. It's a notable landmark right on the Mur river.
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