Hochosterwitz Castle
Perched high atop a crag some 160 meters above the town of Launsdorf, just 21 kilometers northeast of Klagenfurt, sprawls the imposing Hochosterwitz Castle (Burg Hochosterwitz), one of Austria's most impressive castles. First mentioned in 860 AD, the castle was, for centuries, on the frontline between Europe and the Ottoman empire, but never fell. Notable features include the steep winding access road, the Burgweg, some 620 meters long and famous for its 14 gates (each of them named) and the beautiful arcaded courtyard at its end. Other highlights include its quaint little chapel with fine wall and ceiling paintings from 1570 and the church at the southwestern end with a high altar dating from 1729. Guided tours of the historical apartments are available, taking in numerous paintings and furnishings, as well as the Khevenhüller armory.
Address: A-9314 Launsdorf, Kärnten
Official site: www.burg-hochosterwitz.com/en/