Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Castles & Fortresses

Hochosterwitz Castle

Launsdorf, Austria

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST CASTLES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 51 2026
Hochosterwitz Castle

Hilltop fortress on a rocky outcrop above Launsdorf in Carinthia. Visitors climb a path through fourteen defensive gates, with information boards at each, then reach a courtyard, a small museum of armour and weapons, and a restaurant.

Highlights

  • Fourteen defensive gates
  • Armour and weapons museum
  • Courtyard chapel and garden

Good to know

  • Adult entry €18, lift costs extra
  • Walking route through fourteen gates, steep in places
  • Parking at the foot of the hill

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