Best castles around Kössen offer a journey through history in the Kaiserwinkl area and nearby Bavaria. The region is characterized by natural attractions like Walchsee Lake and the Tiroler Ache River, providing a scenic backdrop for historical exploration. While Kössen itself is known for outdoor activities, its surroundings feature several impressive fortifications. These sites provide architectural beauty and historical importance, often accompanied by scenic landscapes.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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In the last third of the 12th century, Konrad and Arnold von Hirnsberg built Hohenaschau Castle as a stronghold at the entrance to the Upper Prien Valley. Important noble families expanded the property and developed the castle into the administrative center of their domain; their influence shaped the land and people of western Chiemgau.
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Welcome to Austria
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Don't worry, the journey continues; the end must be somewhere else. A charming town awaits you after just a few kilometers: Kufstein in Tyrol.
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The castle was first mentioned in 1421 as the seat of the Lords of Ebbs, but it is assumed that it was built as early as the 14th century as a three- or four-storey residential tower, probably as a more convenient replacement for the soon-abandoned and now derelict old Ebbs Castle on St. Nikolausberg. The Lords of Ebbs served as judges and caretakers for the Bavarian dukes, appointed Johann Ebser as Bishop of Chiemsee from 1429 to 1438 and died out with Ludwig Ebser in 1494. In 1971, Richard Stadler from Munich acquired the castle and had it restored and several extensions built by around 1990. The former outbuildings, which are no longer part of the castle, house the Ebbs Fohlenhof, the largest Haflinger stud farm in Europe.
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Beautiful view from afar of Hohenaschau Castle, as it sits enthroned on its hill
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now the border to Tyrol and downhill a downhill highlight
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Visit only possible with a guided tour!! Please note the opening times, as tours only take place once a day from March to October. It's worth experiencing the 800 year history of the castle 👍
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The region around Kössen offers several historically significant castles. You can visit Hohenaschau Castle, a 12th-century stronghold that became an administrative center, or Niedernfels Castle, rebuilt in Renaissance style in 1568 with origins dating back to 988. Marquartstein Castle also provides a glimpse into the region's past.
Yes, both Hohenaschau Castle and Marquartstein Castle are considered family-friendly. Visiting these sites can be combined with outdoor activities, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
The castles can be visited year-round. For Hohenaschau Castle, winter offers unique views of the Kampenwand when the trees are bare. Generally, spring and autumn provide pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and surrounding landscapes.
Absolutely! Many castles, like Hohenaschau Castle, are situated in scenic areas perfect for hiking. You can find various hiking trails around Kössen, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Explore options in the Hiking around Kössen guide.
Hohenaschau Castle was built in the late 12th century by Konrad and Arnold von Hirnsberg. It served as a stronghold and later became the administrative center for influential noble families, shaping the western Chiemgau region. Its historical significance is deeply rooted in its role as a power base.
Niedernfels Castle, first mentioned around 988, was rebuilt in its distinctive Renaissance style in 1568. It features a 20-meter-high square palace with two octagonal towers. In 1954, it became a convent and later housed a school and daycare center, reflecting its evolving role through centuries.
Yes, the St. Veit Castle Chapel is a late Gothic chapel with Baroque furnishings, given a classical appearance in 1845. It holds historical importance as the wedding venue for composer Richard Strauss and Pauline de Ahna.
Yes, the region offers numerous cycling opportunities. While exploring the castles, you can also enjoy various cycling routes, including those around Walchsee and towards Kufstein. Discover suitable paths in the Cycling around Kössen guide.
Many castles offer picturesque views. From certain points, you can directly overlook Marquartstein Castle. The ascent to Hohenaschau Castle rewards visitors with beautiful vistas, especially of the Kampenwand. The surrounding landscapes often feature natural attractions like Walchsee Lake and the Tiroler Ache River.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of architectural beauty, rich historical importance, and the scenic landscapes that accompany these castles. The komoot community has upvoted these highlights over 550 times and shared more than 250 photos, highlighting their appeal.
While the main castles are well-preserved, the region's history of fortifications means that the castles themselves, like Hohenaschau Castle, represent significant historical strongholds. The area is rich in sites that showcase medieval origins and Renaissance architecture.
The duration of a visit can vary. For castles like Hohenaschau Castle, if you include the scenic hike to reach it, you might spend a few hours. For others like Niedernfels Castle, a shorter visit might suffice, depending on whether you explore the immediate surroundings.


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