Baroque joie de vivre fills the imperial castles of the Marchfeld which were erected for Prince Eugen of Savoy in the 18th century and alter expanded by Maria Theresia and the Viennese Court to become Austria’s largest ensemble of country castles. The Hof Castle had also been known as the site of splendid events since its construction in 1726.

Today, this tradition of opulent festivities is continued: after the renovation and refurbishment of the apartments of the empress and the prince, the palace offers a wonderful ensemble of baroque attractions. The extensive baroque gardens with detailed landscaping on seven terraces are still as magnificent as they were in the prince’s time: artistically laid out flower beds, romantic pergolas and richly adorned fountains which can serve as a quiet refuge for restful hours or as a magnificent backdrop for feudal festivities. Mediterranean plants from back then and now can be admired in the revitalized orangerie.

Old Crafts and Original Delights

This baroque adventure world is made complete by an impressive ensemble of utilitarian buildings. The "Meierhof" (dairy) of the palace is one of the most renowned baroque buildings of its kind in central Europe. Here, wood turners, basket weavers, and pewter smiths practiced their crafts, races of rare pets such as Wallachian sheep or white donkeys are held, and a jam kitchen and distillery take care of bodily comforts. Even organic fruits and vegetables are cultivated here and can be tasted.

Getting there:
Car recommended

Public transportation:
Underground U1 to Kagran, Bus 391 to Stopfenreuth, regional bus 498 to Schlosshof Markthof
Important: Trips lasts up to two and a half hours!! Ticket: single ticket or Vienna Card plus 4 additional zones
To book a shuttle bus
call tel. 01-798 29 00, shuttle.bus@blaguss.at

Hof Castle
April 10 – Oct. 31, 2009
Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Guided tours
by appointment
Garden tours in nice weather: daily at 3 p.m.
www.schlosshof.at
Events (German)
Getting there (German)
To book a shuttle bus call tel. 01-96 0 96,
shuttle.bus@blaguss.at