Kapfenberg
The town of Kapfenberg is a 45-minute drive from Graz. It is the third-largest town in the state of Styria, with about 24,000 inhabitants. The town has a small water park, but the main attraction is, of course, Oberkapfenberg Castle. The castle is located on top of a wooded hill overlooking the entire area (592 meters above sea level). From the train station, you can reach the castle with a short walk up the hill.
Oberkapfenberg Castle
Oberkapfenberg Castle (Burg Oberkapfenberg) was built in the 13th century by the Counts of Stubenberg on the site of an older 12th-century castle. The castle served as the seat of the counts. In the mid-16th century, the castle was renovated in the Renaissance style. At the end of the 18th century, the counts moved to the Wieden Palace, and the castle was left deserted and abandoned. It was not until 1953 that one of the members of the noble family decided to return and renovate the castle, turning it into a hotel. The ambitious project failed, and in 1985 the castle was once again deserted.
In 1992, the municipality purchased the castle and began to restore and renovate it. Since then, a nice restaurant has opened on the premises, and there are displays on the history of the castle and the region. In addition, there are flight shows of birds of prey and a knights’ festival during the summer months.
From the castle grounds, there are great views of the entire area. During the transitional seasons, you can even see snow-capped peaks.
The Trail to the Castle
The hiking trail starts at the foot of the hill. If you are coming from the train station, you will need to cross the main road and walk towards the river. There you will cross the bridge and pass a small transformer station at the foot of the hill. From there, there are several ways to get to the castle: you can walk along the winding road or, alternatively, walk on the marked path through the forest. There are clear signs directing you to the castle, so you can’t miss the way. The ascent to the castle is not long, perhaps about 20 minutes, but it is not exactly easy due to the continuous climb (especially if you go through the forest).
If you are arriving by car, you can drive up to the castle entrance and save yourself the walk up.
The Bird of Prey Show
The show area is located at the back of the castle and offers a spectacular view of the entire region. The bird of prey show displays the abilities of a variety of predatory birds such as eagles, owls, and falcons. Learn about the world of falconry and watch these impressive animals.
Einkehr Prieselbauer – An Authentic Culinary Experience
Another beautiful attraction is the Einkehr Prieselbauer restaurant, located about a 30-minute walk (or a few minutes’ drive) from the castle. This is an authentic Austrian restaurant surrounded by pastures with goats, deer, horses, and llamas. On a sunny day, don’t miss sitting on the restaurant’s terrace. The views from it are absolutely amazing.
The food is local and delicious, and the service is friendly and fast. Definitely a recommended place.
- Opening hours: All year round, Friday to Monday from 10:30 AM.
- Official Website
- Address: Einkehr Prieselbauer, Prieselbauerweg 1
Map:
Essential Information for Visiting the Castle and the Bird of Prey Show:
Opening Hours:
- Castle Exhibitions: From the beginning of February until before Christmas (December 23rd), Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Bird of Prey Show: From April to October, Wednesday to Sunday at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
Costs:
Castle Entrance (without a guide):
- Adult: €8.50
- Child (6-15): €5.50
- Family: 1 adult – €14 | 2 adults – €22
Combined Ticket – Castle Entrance and Bird of Prey Show:
- Adult: €16
- Child (6-15): €10
- Family: 1 adult – €25 | 2 adults – €41
How to get to the castle from Graz?
It’s very simple. Take a fast train from the main train station in Graz (Graz HBF). The train goes towards Vienna. You need to get off at the second stop, called Kapfenberg Bahnhof. From there, you can already see the castle on top of the hill.
Address: Schloßbergweg 1, 8605 Kapfenberg
