Burg Grimmenstein

About the museum

Grimmenstein hilltop castle was built in the 12th century on a rocky spur on the southeast slope of the Kulmriegel, around 660 metres above the Pitten Valley. It was one of three fortifications on this mountain ridge that controlled the valley.

When a roof tax became payable on inhabited, roofed buildings, the complex was left to decay; large parts of the masonry were later removed for use as building material. In the 1960s the remaining walls were restored and partly rebuilt in a neo-Romantic style.

Since July 2014 the owner, Markus Albero Grimmenstein, has been renovating the listed castle at his own expense and without public funding. Since April 2016 it has been open to visitors: the museum castle can be explored independently at weekends and on public holidays, a castle tavern with a terrace offers a view over the Bucklige Welt, and during Advent the castle is decorated for Christmas.

Highlights

• 12th-century hilltop castle on a rocky spur above the Pitten Valley
• Independent visit of the museum castle at weekends and on public holidays
• Castle tavern with terrace and panoramic view over the Bucklige Welt
• Castle decorated for Christmas with extended opening hours in Advent
• Children's birthday parties with knight games and school class visits with the lord of the castle

Founded

2016

Operated by

Markus Albero Grimmenstein (Eigentümer, privat)

Admission & discounts

Admission is a contribution to the upkeep of the castle and applies per person from the age of 5.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: not available
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

According to the operator, the castle is not accessible for people with disabilities; it can only be reached on foot via paths from the castle car park.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Kids’ birthday parties

Children's birthday parties on weekdays with a castle tour, a robber baron story and knight games such as archery (up to 8 children with parents). School classes can have their photo taken in a tabard and helmet; each child receives a gemstone as a keepsake.

Getting there & parking

The castle lies at an elevation of around 660 m on the Kulmriegel above Grimmenstein and can only be reached on foot via hiking trails; coordinates N 47°37.915 E 16°07.220.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop

Castle tavern with terrace (homemade Austrian pastries and desserts, snacks, drinks; mulled wine and punch in Advent) and souvenir shop during opening hours.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties

Up to 30 guests.

Terrace and Knights' Hall can be rented year-round for small private celebrations and seminars (Monday to Saturday, up to 30 people, in winter until 10 p.m.); you may bring your own food, castle tour included. Not every enquiry is accepted.

Plan your visit