Castles around Lauterach offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and diverse architectural heritage. Located near the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance, the area features a blend of natural landscapes and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore various sites, from well-preserved medieval fortresses to significant castle ruins. The proximity to Bregenz and Hohenems provides access to historically important structures.
Last updated: September 26, 2026
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The Deuringschlössle (also Deuringschlößle) is a former residence in the upper town of Bregenz. The core of the three-story manor house dates back to the 14th/15th century and is located in the southwest corner of Bregenz's upper town, a short distance from the city wall. In 1539, the small manor house belonged to Hans von Wolfurt. In 1647, it was damaged by the Swedes during the capture of Bregenz. Johann Albert von Deuring acquired the manor house in 1660 and had it significantly enlarged by 1702, building up the open space between the manor house and the city wall. The gun tower at the southwest corner of the city wall was raised, given an onion dome, and incorporated into the building. An extension was added to the southeast side in 1698, and the "Torkel" (wine cellar) was built to the east in 1702. Michael and Johann Georg Kuen may have significantly influenced this structural redesign. The Deuring family were wealthy timber merchants from Bregenz who were raised to the knightly nobility in 1621. The Deuringschlössle remained in the family's possession until 1801. The next owners were the governor and district captain Johann Jakob von Vicari, and twenty years later, the Imperial and Royal Rent Master Christoph Anton Kayser, who established the Rent Office here. After his death, the building was inherited by the Swiss architect Johann Anton von Tscharner-Merhart, who commissioned an interior renovation in the historicist style in 1915. In 1927, the upper floor of the former wine press was converted into an artist's studio, the so-called Knight's Hall. From 1989 to 2015, the Deuringschlössle was used as a gourmet hotel.
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Around 1100, the Count of Bregenz built the castle on a rocky outcrop of the Gebhardsberg, high above the city. "Sunken in holy enthusiasm..." begins a poem inspired by Hohen Bregenz Castle. In 1143, the castle passed to the Counts of Pulllendorf, and shortly thereafter, around 1170, to Count Palatine Hugo II of Tübingen (father of Hugo I, Count of Montfort). The upper part of the castle was sold to the Habsburgs in 1451, and the lower part in 1523, and the castle became the seat of Austrian bailiffs. Converted into a fortress at the beginning of the 17th century, the Swedes blew up large sections of the castle during the Thirty Years' War. The circular wall and parts of the palace survived. The attached church became a popular place of pilgrimage in honor of Saint Gebhard. The old sacristan's house, which has since been converted into a restaurant, looks forward to your visit. Even today, the fantastic view over the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance attracts numerous visitors.
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A manor house was built here between the 14th and 15th centuries. Around 1700, the gaps between the house and the city wall were closed.
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Well-preserved old buildings, the likes of which are no longer found in the lower town.
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The Deuringschlössle and the Martinsturm dominate the silhouette of Bregenz's upper town. The mighty bastions of the city wall and the round corner tower still show the original defensive strength. The former gun tower was extended to an octagonal shape in the 17th century and given a slightly oversized onion dome, in keeping with the spirit of the Baroque era.
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Beautiful castle in the old town, very nicely located. Beautiful old houses 👍
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History of Hohenbregenz Castle. The castle was built in the last quarter of the 11th century (before 1097) by the Counts of Bregenz (Ulriche). The castle was first mentioned in a document in 1209. In 1143 the castle passed to the Counts of Pfullendorf, but only remained in their possession for a short time. Just a few years later (1170) it came to Count Palatine Hugo of Tübingen (father of Hugo I, Count of Montfort). The upper part of the castle was sold in 1451 and the lower part of the castle in 1523 to the Habsburgs, who made the castle the seat of Austrian bailiffs. At the beginning of the 17th century the castle was expanded into a fortress. In 1647, towards the end of the Thirty Years' War, they were able to capture Swedish troops without a fight. They blew up the fortress in the same year by setting off five mines (see Naval War on Lake Constance 1632–1648). Source: Wikipedia
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The Deuringschlössle is a former residence in the upper town of Bregenz. The building is a listed building.
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Beyond the popular Grimmenstein Castle Ruins and Grünenstein Castle, you can explore the historic Deuringschlössle in Bregenz, known for its architectural transition from a fortified structure to an early modern residence. The Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins, also in Bregenz, offer stunning panoramic views. In Hohenems, Glopper Castle (Neu-Ems Castle) is a well-preserved medieval fortress that can be admired from nearby hiking paths.
Yes, Grimmenstein Castle Ruins are particularly family-friendly, featuring barbecue areas and interesting 800-year-old ruins that children often enjoy exploring. Grünenstein Castle is also listed as family-friendly, though it is a private residence.
The castles provide a rich glimpse into the region's past. Deuringschlössle showcases the evolution from medieval fortification to aristocratic residence. The Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins tell the story of the Counts of Bregenz and the Thirty Years' War. Glopper Castle exemplifies Gothic architectural style and medieval life, serving as both a defensive stronghold and a luxurious home over centuries.
Absolutely. The Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins are renowned for breathtaking panoramic views over the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance. Grimmenstein Castle Ruins also offer a wonderful view of Lake Constance and the three neighboring states. Glopper Castle, from its strategic position, provides impressive views of the Rhine Valley.
Many castles are situated along scenic routes. Near the Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins, you can find romantic forest paths, nature, forest adventure, and geology trails. The region around Lauterach offers extensive opportunities for cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking. You can find detailed routes and guides for these activities on komoot, such as Cycling around Lauterach, MTB Trails around Lauterach, and Gravel biking around Lauterach.
Many castles are accessible by car, often with nearby parking. For instance, the Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins can be reached via a short drive or forest paths. Public transport options are generally available to the towns where these castles are located, such as Bregenz for Deuringschlössle and Gebhardsberg, and Hohenems for Glopper Castle. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes.
The castles around Lauterach can be visited year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the ruins and surrounding trails, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer is ideal for combining castle visits with outdoor activities and enjoying the views over Lake Constance. Even in winter, some sites like the Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins can offer a unique, serene experience, especially with a restaurant on site.
While not entirely 'hidden,' Glopper Castle (Neu-Ems Castle) is a privately owned gem that, while not always open for interior visits, offers a superb example of a well-preserved medieval castle. Its exterior and strategic position overlooking the Rhine Valley make it a rewarding sight from nearby hiking paths.
Accessibility varies by castle. Many of these historical sites, especially ruins like Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins and Grimmenstein Castle Ruins, involve uneven terrain, stairs, or forest paths, which may pose challenges for visitors with limited mobility. Deuringschlössle is a private residence, and its exterior can be viewed from the historic upper town of Bregenz, which has varying levels of accessibility.
Yes, several castles have dining options nearby or on-site. The Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins feature a charming restaurant with spectacular views. In Bregenz, near Deuringschlössle, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in the upper town. The towns of Bregenz and Hohenems, where many of these castles are located, offer a range of accommodation options from hotels to guesthouses.
Generally, dogs are welcome on outdoor trails and in the vicinity of castle ruins, provided they are kept on a leash. For specific castle interiors or private properties like Grünenstein Castle or Glopper Castle, it's best to check their specific policies beforehand. The forest paths around Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins and Grimmenstein Castle Ruins are popular for dog walks.
The time needed depends on the castle and your interest. For ruins like Grimmenstein Castle Ruins or Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins, you might spend 1-2 hours exploring the site and enjoying the views, possibly longer if you dine at the restaurant at Gebhardsberg. Viewing the exterior of Deuringschlössle or Glopper Castle from nearby paths could be part of a longer hike or a quick stop. If you plan to visit multiple castles, consider dedicating a full day or more.
While some castles are private residences or ruins, specific guided tours might be available for certain sites or during special events. For example, Grünenstein Castle, though private, has hosted cultural events and celebrations. For the Gebhardsberg Castle Ruins, information on guided tours can sometimes be found through local tourism offices or on their official website: visitbregenz.com.


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