There’s something magical about castles perched on mountains. Maybe it’s the way they seem to defy gravity, or the way they whisper centuries-old stories of knights, kings, and intrigue. Hohenwerfen Castle, nestled in the Salzburg region of Austria, is one such place. It’s not just a castle—it’s a time machine, a movie set, and a family adventure rolled into one. And last spring, my family and I finally crossed it off our bucket list.
The Castle That Beckoned
For years, Hohenwerfen Castle was a tantalizing silhouette on our drives along the A10 Tauern Autobahn, the highway that cuts through the stunning Austrian Alps. Every time we visited this part of Austria, there it was—looming over the Salzach Valley, its towers piercing the sky like a scene from a medieval fairytale. I’d turn to my husband Rashid and say, “One day, we’re going there.” Last spring, that day finally came.
With our daughter Simone, youngest son Zak, and a sense of adventure, we arrived in the late afternoon. Luck was on our side: we snagged the last tour of the day. Better yet, we were the only ones on the tour. It felt like we’d rented the castle for ourselves, complete with a private guide who was equal parts historian and storyteller.
A Fortress Steeped in History
Hohenwerfen Castle sits proudly on a rocky outcrop in the Tennengebirge mountain range, part of the larger Austrian Alps. Built in 1077 by the Archbishop of Salzburg, it was originally a strategic stronghold to protect the region from invaders. Over the centuries, it’s worn many hats: a military base, a hunting lodge, and even a prison (rumor has it, the dungeon was not a five-star experience).
Our guide regaled us with tales of sieges, royal hunts, and the castle’s role in shaping Salzburg’s history. But what really caught our attention were the Hollywood connections.
Lights, Camera, Hohenwerfen!
Turns out, Hohenwerfen Castle is a bit of a movie star. If you’ve ever watched Where Eagles Dare, the 1968 WWII action thriller starring Clint Eastwood, you’ve seen the castle in all its dramatic glory. It served as the backdrop for the film’s fictional “Schloss Adler,” a Nazi stronghold. The castle’s rugged surroundings and imposing architecture made it the perfect setting for high-stakes espionage and daring escapes.
And if that’s not enough, Hohenwerfen also had a cameo in The Sound of Music. Remember the opening scene where Maria twirls on a mountain meadow, singing “The hills are alive…”? Yep, those hills are the ones surrounding Hohenwerfen. It’s like the castle has a side gig as a Hollywood extra.
A Family Adventure to Remember
What made our visit truly special was the intimacy of the experience. With no other tourists around, we could soak in the castle’s atmosphere without the usual crowds. Zak was fascinated by the falconry show, where majestic birds of prey soared above the castle walls. Simone loved exploring the towers and imagining herself as a medieval princess. Rashid and I? We just marveled at the panoramic views of the Salzach Valley, the mountains stretching endlessly into the horizon.
As we left, the sun dipped behind the Tennengebirge range, casting a golden glow over the castle. It felt like the perfect ending to a day that had been years in the making.
Why You Should Visit
Hohenwerfen Castle isn’t just a historical landmark; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a movie fan, or just someone who loves a good view, this castle has something for everyone. And if you’re lucky enough to get a private tour, well, that’s just the cherry on top.
So, if you’re ever driving down the A10 and spot that iconic silhouette, don’t just admire it from afar. Make the detour. Trust me, it’s worth it. Watch the video below for a guided tour of the castle!
All Around The World 