Top 12 Castles around Orth an der Donau
Best castles around Orth an der Donau are situated in a region characterized by the Danube River and the Donau-Auen National Park. This area offers a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. The castles here reflect centuries of history, from medieval origins to Renaissance transformations. Visitors can explore cultural heritage alongside the unique ecology of the Danube wetlands.
Best castles around Orth an der Donau
- The most popular castles is Eckartsau Castle, a historical site that was converted…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Orth Castle on the Danube, National Park Center
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Eckartsau Castle
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Petronell Castle
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Sachsengang Castle
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Schwadorf Castle
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Popular around Orth an der Donau
From Vienna to the state border at Hainburg - Tours in the National Park Donau-Auen
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Around 1120, Adalbert von Sachsengang was documented as the first representative of the family named after the castle. When Emperor Ferdinand III put Sachsengang up for sale in 1655, it was already in very poor condition. Johann Konrad von Richthausen became the new lord of the castle. He primarily engaged in alchemical experiments in Sachsengang. As early as 1659, he sold the castle to Dr. Jakob von Thavonat, a South Tyrolean, who had it expanded into a palace. His descendants still live in and manage the castle today.
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Orth Castle is one of the oldest surviving castles in the region and has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The castle was first mentioned in the 12th century and was originally a medieval moated castle. In the 16th century, the castle was converted into a Renaissance palace. Over the centuries, it served various noble families and was later taken over by the municipality. Today, it is a listed building, is an important part of Lower Austria's cultural heritage and is particularly known as the Danube-Auen National Park Center. The castle houses the national park's visitor center, which is dedicated to the unique flora and fauna of this protected floodplain landscape. Orth Castle is located right in the heart of the Danube-Auen National Park, one of the last great floodplain landscapes in Central Europe. It combines historical architecture with modern environmental education. An ideal place to learn more about the fascinating floodplain landscape and its importance for nature conservation while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.
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Petronell Castle was first built in the 11th century. The four-winged castle complex that still exists today was planned by Dominio Carlone (around 1615 - 1679) on behalf of the Abensperg-Traun family. The castle is decorated with frescoes by Caprovo Tencalla. The castle was owned by the Abensperg and Traun families for 17 generations and was sold to a private investor in 2006 and can therefore only be viewed from the outside. More on the history: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Petronell
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The Sachsengang fortress, probably one of the oldest and perhaps the oldest, fortification around Vienna, was one of the most important in the medieval chain of castles that stretched from Eßling to Stopfenreuth. In 1659, the South Tyrolean Baron Dr. Jakob von Thavonat bought the Sachsengang castle and converted it into a palace. His descendants still live in and manage the castle today. More on the history: http://www.burgenkunde.at/niederoesterreich/sachsengang/sachsengang.htm
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Beautiful castle! Unfortunately you have to take quite a detour to get to the courtyard.
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Eckartsau Castle, the headquarters of the Donau-Auen National Park of the Austrian Federal Forests, also has an information point for the Donau-Auen National Park including a castle café and the WILD°WECHSEL exhibition. Visit the national park information point, which will advise you on your personal excursion wishes. Ask about the most beautiful hiking and cycling trails or book a guided excursion in the Donau-Auen National Park on land and water. You can also book castle tours here. The castle café will spoil you with pastries, small snacks and cold and warm drinks while you rest in the idyllic courtyard of the castle. The WILD°WECHSEL exhibition tells the story of the transformation from an imperial hunting ground to a national park: Of course, the Donau-Auen cannot be easily put into two rooms. But interesting views and insights are guaranteed here. Roam through the floodplain forests on a special kind of stalking trip. Find your way. Observe and explore the surroundings. Become the target of others. Race through time and see for yourself. Cross the turbulent stream of history with its stages. From the monarchy to the present day. Become a part of our history! Spot animals, master the hunting language and become a goal scorer. Prepare to be surprised - at second glance everything is different. Visiting the exhibition is free of charge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Schloss Orth an der Donau a significant castle to visit?
Schloss Orth an der Donau is a historically rich site that blends centuries of history with natural exploration. Originally a medieval moated castle, it evolved into a Renaissance palace and now houses the National Park Centre Donau-Auen and museumORTH. Visitors can explore exhibitions on the national park's ecology, regional cultural history, and observe wetland wildlife at the unique Schlossinsel (Castle Island) with its underwater observation station.
Are there other notable castles in the Orth an der Donau region?
Yes, besides Schloss Orth, you can visit Eckartsau Castle, a historical site converted into a hunting lodge, located directly on the Danube cycle path. Another significant site is Sachsengang Castle, one of the oldest fortifications around Vienna, which has been continuously inhabited and managed by the same family's descendants since 1659.
What kind of historical periods do the castles around Orth an der Donau represent?
The castles in the region showcase a range of historical periods. Schloss Orth an der Donau, for example, has medieval origins as a moated castle and later underwent significant Renaissance transformations. Eckartsau Castle, while also medieval in origin, is known for its conversion into a Baroque hunting lodge. Sachsengang Castle dates back to the 12th century, representing early medieval fortifications.
Can I combine a castle visit with outdoor activities like cycling or hiking?
Absolutely. The region around Orth an der Donau is ideal for combining castle visits with outdoor activities, especially due to its proximity to the Donau-Auen National Park. You can find numerous cycling paths, including the Danube cycle path which passes by Eckartsau Castle. For more options, explore the cycling, gravel biking, and hiking routes available in the area.
What natural attractions are there at Schloss Orth an der Donau?
Schloss Orth an der Donau is unique for its integration with nature. The Schlossinsel (Castle Island) is an outdoor area where visitors can observe diverse flora and fauna of the Danube wetlands, including European pond turtles, snakes, and various fish. A highlight is the walk-in underwater observation station, offering a direct view of aquatic life in the Danube tributaries.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Orth an der Donau region?
Yes, both Schloss Orth an der Donau and Eckartsau Castle are considered family-friendly. Schloss Orth offers interactive exhibitions at the National Park Centre and the engaging Schlossinsel with its wildlife. Eckartsau Castle, with its historical significance and park, also provides an enjoyable experience for families.
How long should I plan for a visit to Schloss Orth an der Donau?
To fully experience Schloss Orth an der Donau, including the National Park Centre, museumORTH, and the Schlossinsel with its underwater observation station, you should plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you wish to explore the surrounding Donau-Auen National Park, you might extend your visit to half a day or more.
Is there public transport available to reach the castles?
While specific public transport details for each castle vary, Orth an der Donau is generally accessible. Eckartsau Castle is notably located directly on the Danube cycle path, making it easily reachable by bike. For detailed public transport information to Schloss Orth, you may check local transport schedules or the official website of the market town of Orth an der Donau.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Orth an der Donau?
The best time to visit the castles around Orth an der Donau is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant for exploring the castle grounds and combining your visit with outdoor activities in the Donau-Auen National Park. The National Park Centre at Schloss Orth is open year-round, but the outdoor Schlossinsel is most enjoyable in warmer months.
Are there cafes or dining options near the castles?
Yes, there are dining options available. Eckartsau Castle has a cafe on-site. In the vicinity of Schloss Orth an der Donau, you will find cafes and restaurants in the market town itself, offering opportunities for refreshments and meals after your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Orth an der Donau?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique combination of history and nature offered by Schloss Orth an der Donau, especially the fascinating exhibitions at the National Park Centre and the engaging outdoor experience on the Schlossinsel. The historical significance and beautiful settings of castles like Eckartsau are also highly valued, often highlighted by their integration with the Danube cycle path and the national park's natural beauty.
Can I visit castles that are currently undergoing renovation?
Some castles, like Petronell Castle, may be undergoing renovation. While you might be able to view them from the outside, public inspection or access to the interior is often restricted or forbidden during these periods. It's advisable to check the current status before planning a visit to such sites.
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