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Finstergrün Castle
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Finstergrün Castle in Salzburg's Lungau is a fascinating fortress complex perched on a steep rocky spur. Its history dates back to the 12th century, with the original fortress falling into ruin over the centuries. At the beginning of the 20th century, the castle was magnificently rebuilt in the historicist style by the Hungarian noble family Szápáry. The old walls were skillfully integrated into the new construction, creating a unique architectural ensemble. Today, the castle serves as a youth hostel and meeting center open to guests from all over the world. The complex features a prominent keep, a romantic castle chapel, and winding inner courtyards. The location has a spectacular view of the Upper Mur Valley and the surrounding mountains. Regular guided tours allow visitors to learn more about the eventful history and legends of the castle.
- Location: Carinthia, Austria
- Top sights: Schloss Obermurau · Grünfels · St.Georgen
- Nearby: Turracher Höhe (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -6 | -1 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 9 | 5 | 0 | -5 |
| Rain mm | 48 | 49 | 61 | 74 | 116 | 141 | 156 | 165 | 125 | 94 | 86 | 60 |
📋 Practical info
Address
Burgstrasse 65, 5591 Ramingstein
Hours
Mon-Sun 10:00-17:00 (May-Sept)
Entry
10€ (incl. guided tour)
Website
Transit
Murtalbahn to Ramingstein stop
Parking
Small parking lot available at the foot of the castle.
Accessibility
Not barrier-free, many stairs and steep paths.
Photos
Permitted in outdoor areas, restricted inside.
Best time
In clear weather for the view into the Mur Valley.
Audio guide
no
Geography
Facts
- The castle was first mentioned in 1138 as 'Burgruine an der Gren'.
- In 1841, a devastating forest fire destroyed large parts of the old ruins.
- The reconstruction by the Szápáry family began in the year 1901.
- The castle features a keep with a height of 25 meters.
- Since 1945, the castle has been used as an international youth center.
- Finstergrün is located at an altitude of 1,087 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Finstergrün Castle (8)
alpakhaus.at🎡 recreation
An alpaca farm located in the mountains offering visitor tours.
🌐 alpakahaus.at🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-20:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Burg Finstergrün?
The castle is used as an adventure house and youth hostel, allowing for overnight stays in a historical setting.
Can you visit the castle without staying overnight?
Yes, during the summer months, regular guided castle tours are offered for day guests.
How do you reach the castle in Ramingstein?
It is located in Lungau and is accessible via the Murtal federal highway; parking is available in the village.
Is the castle suitable for children?
Yes, its concept as a youth guest house makes it particularly family-friendly and provides plenty of space to explore.
Are there legends about the castle?
The castle has a varied history from the Middle Ages to its reconstruction around 1900 by Countess Szápáry.
Finstergrün Castle: where is it located?
Finstergrün Castle is located in Carinthia, Austria.
Finstergrün Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Schloss Obermurau, Grünfels, St.Georgen.
Finstergrün Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Finstergrün Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Finstergrün Castle in Salzburg's Lungau is a fascinating fortress complex perched on a steep rocky spur.
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