© Stadt Bückeburg

Seven castles in the Weser Uplands

Step into the enchanting world of princes

Immerse yourself in a realm of splendour and history.

In the heart of the Weser Uplands lie seven magnificent castles, each one a testament to majestic architecture and the captivating stories of a bygone age. Within their walls, echoes of the past still stir, bringing centuries-old tales to life. These castles are not only architectural masterpieces – they are gateways to a world of wonder, intrigue and historical grandeur. Join us on a journey through the seven castles of the Weser Uplands – an invitation to rediscover the past and experience it like never before.

CC0 Francesco Carovillano

Equestrian marvels and historical stables

Bückeburg Palace

Bückeburg Palace has two sensations in store for visitors: Horse lovers can witness first-class equestrian events from different epochs at the Princely Equestrian Academy. Attend a performance or take part in seminars featuring these noble stallions. Owned by the princely family of Schaumburg-Lippe for over 700 years, the castle also boasts the world’s largest private mausoleum, adorned with vibrant mosaics – set within a magnificent landscaped park. An especially popular event at the castle is the prince’s annual Weihnachtszauber magical Christmas festival.

 

 

CC0 Francesco Carovillano

A regal stay

Schlosshotel Münchhausen Castle Hotel

Pure romanticism: Nestled in the heart of an English landscape garden featuring rare tulip trees and Asian spruces stands a striking sixteenth-century moated castle – the Schlosshotel Münchhausen Castle Hotel. Even Tsar Peter the Great was amazed when he visited this Renaissance palace 300 years ago. This former princely residence offers more than just a stunning setting and rich history: the Münchhausen Moated Castle hosts culinary and cultural events throughout the year, including the Schwöbber Cultural Summer and a variety of lectures and readings.

 

CC-BY-SA Touristikzentrum Westliches Weserbergland, Schlosshotel Münchhausen
CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Andreas Burmann Andreas Burmann Fotografie

Porcelain you can touch

Fürstenberg Castle

The Fürstenberg Castle Museum, on the other hand, brings 300 years of porcelain history vividly back to life. Its charm lies in the blend of past and present, with the modern porcelain factory set right next to the historic Weser Renaissance castle, itself on the German Fairy Tale Route. Under the motto ‘Look, touch and learn’, touching is very much encouraged at the castle museum, with numerous interactive stations inviting hands-on exploration. Workshops also offer the chance to create your own souvenirs from ‘white gold’.

CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Andreas Burmann Andreas Burmann Fotografie

Take a look around

Virtual tour of the Fürstenberg Porcelain Factory

Stunning views of the Weser river from the castle tower

Corvey Baroque Palace

The tower of Corvey Baroque Palace offers beautiful views of the Weser river below. Once a monastery, the site is now a museum – and with its own jetty and wine tavern, it offers a memorable experience, while also being on the Weser Cycle Route (Weser-Radweg). It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

CC-BY Weserbergland Tourismus e.V.

The knights of old

Hämelschenburg Palace

CC0 Schloss Hämelschenburg, Schloss Hämelschenburg

Looking for a bit of knight life? Hämelschenburg Palace, owned by the von Klencke Guelph noble family, is a striking Weser Renaissance manor with exquisite artworks and a splendid garden. Why not book a private tour and take a closer look at paintings and weaponry spanning five centuries?

 

A cultural landmark

Pyrmont Castle

CC-BY Günther Dächert , Museum im Schloss Bad Pyrmont

Once an important fort, Pyrmont Castle was built over in the eighteenth century by the Princes von Waldeck und Pyrmont, who transformed it into a Baroque summer residence. Today the castle grounds are the cultural centre of the spa town of Bad Pyrmont. The two castle courtyards are especially popular for all kinds of open-air events. And the Kaffeehaus im Schloss café offers wonderful views of the Palm Garden.

Classical music in the chapel

Bevern Castle

CC-BY-SA SVR/KoernerPaeslack, Solling-Vogler-Region im Weserbergland

You won’t find a more stately setting: Bevern Castle, a seventeenth-century Renaissance masterpiece, is now a cultural venue that draws visitors with exhibitions, concerts and events. From classical piano evenings in the chapel to open-air theatre in the courtyard, there’s plenty to experience – including themed and immersive tours that link several castles across the Weser Uplands.

More castles and fortresses in Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony)