Burg Hohenwerfen: A Falconry Fortress

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Explore a historic fortress with falconry displays & panoramic views, a short trip from Salzburg in the Austrian Alps.

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Burg Hohenwerfen

Perched high above the Salzach Valley, Burg Hohenwerfen is a formidable 11th-century fortress offering stunning alpine views and a captivating glimpse into medieval life. Once a strategic stronghold and prison, it now delights visitors with falconry displays, historical exhibits, and guided tours.

A brief summary to Burg Hohenwerfen

Burgstraße 2, Werfen, 5450, AT
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Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Sunday 9 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Burg Hohenwerfen.

Check the schedule for falconry flight demonstrations, as showtimes vary throughout the year.
Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill walk to the castle or opt for the funicular.
Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the castle, including the tour and falconry show.
Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas if kept on a leash, but not allowed on the castle tour.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Salzburg, take the S3 or REX train to Werfen station, a journey of approximately 40-50 minutes. From Werfen station, you can walk to Burg Hohenwerfen. The walk takes around 30 minutes via a shady, signposted footpath. Alternatively, a shuttle service (w3-Shuttle) is available from the train station to the castle; book at least 1 hour in advance by calling +43 664 1266700. A taxi from the Werfen train station is also an option. Train fare from Salzburg to Werfen is approximately €8-€12. A one way ticket for the w3-Shuttle is approximately €2.90.
Car

Burg Hohenwerfen is about a 40-minute drive south of Salzburg. Take the A10 motorway and exit at Werfen, following signs to the castle. A vignette is required for highway travel in Austria; otherwise, take the B159 Salzachtal main road. Parking is available at the base of the castle for a fee. From the parking area, it's a 10-15 minute uphill walk to the castle entrance. An inclined elevator/funicular is available from the parking lot to the castle for an additional fee.

Discover more about Burg Hohenwerfen

Burg Hohenwerfen, a majestic medieval rock castle, stands guard over the Austrian town of Werfen, approximately 40 km south of Salzburg. Constructed in the late 11th century by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg, it served as a crucial strategic bulwark during the Investiture Controversy. The castle, sister to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, is nestled amidst the Berchtesgaden Alps and the Tennen Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views.Throughout its history, Burg Hohenwerfen has been a military stronghold, a residence for Salzburg's rulers, and even a state prison, holding figures like Archbishop Adalbert III. The castle faced sieges and destruction during the Peasants' War in the 16th century but was later rebuilt. In 1898, Archduke Eugene of Habsburg-Teschen acquired the fortress, transforming it into a stately home filled with art and weaponry. Briefly a Nazi training camp, it served as a training facility for the Austrian Gendarmerie (rural police) until 1987.Since 1987, Burg Hohenwerfen has been a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a multifaceted experience. The highlight for many is the historic Salzburg Falconry Center, which presents daily flight demonstrations with falcons, eagles, and vultures. Visitors can also explore the castle's interior on guided tours, discovering the chapel, armory, and bell tower. Exhibitions delve into the castle's history, falconry, and local legends, such as the Myth of Jackl, a tale of witchcraft and wizardry in Salzburg. For a unique dining experience, the castle tavern offers medieval-themed banquets.Burg Hohenwerfen has also appeared on the silver screen, most notably as Schloss Adler in the 1968 film 'Where Eagles Dare'.