Visitors may want to avoid this abandoned castle when visiting Germany
When you think of Germany, what comes to mind? The Bavarian Alps? Pretzels? Beer? Oktoberfest? While all these things are associated with this beautiful European country, another thing Germany is famous for is the number of fairytale castles throughout its lands. This inspiring brochure, full of castles ranging from large to small can capture the imagination of visitors from all over the world. That said, strange as it may be, visitors may want to avoid this fortified castle on their next trip to Germany.
Germany is one of the most visited countries in the world, and castle-hopping is one of the must-do activities within its borders. While there are many attractions to look out for on your next trip to Germany, the Schloss (German barn) seems to be worth a visit, according to comments on TripAdvisor.
Located in the town of Mespelbrunn, which is just halfway between Frankfurt and Würzburg, this MAITET castle happens to be one of Germany’s most beautiful water castles, and is easily accessible from all the surrounding major cities. From Frankfurt, Mespelbrunn Castle is 42 kilometers away, from Cologne it is about 155 kilometers, and from Würzburg, you have about 43 miles.
Read more: Europe’s favorite things to know before your trip by Rick Steves
Does Mespelbrunn castle live up to the hype? TripAdvisor users go inside
Mespelbrunn castle is surrounded by a moat reflecting in the water – Holger Leue / Getty Images
One of the rare things about mespelbrunn castle is that it is still privately owned by the same family, the Ingelheim cases, which are still alive inside the south wing of the Castle. Originally built as a residence back in 1412 in the forest of Spessark, the Renaissance-Style Castle has not been altered or demolished, so travelers tend to flock to see a piece of untouched history while on site.
Although they are beautiful and very important in Germany, that does not mean that all tourists are happy with their visit. TripAdvisor user Pmausbo left a review with the title “The view from the outside was enough for us.” They continued to talk about their frustration with being charged regularly. “Parking: Subject to a charge. Entry to the property: Subject to a charge. Parking centers first behind the barrier, at the beginning of the entrance for which an entry fee of 6.50 Euro is paid
Désirée m on TripAdvisor and shares her Disdain for the cost of visiting the castle. “In addition, the price of € 6.50 for adults is too expensive in my opinion. On top of that, we paid € 2 in the car park before that, we can enter behind it, and then we return to the car.” He went on to say how the toilets were a disgrace, and with all the fees charged, guests should have clean toilets.
Not just a bad machine: Mespelbrunn Castle wins some hearts of TripAdvisor users
Mespelbrunn castle surrounded by forest – Alexbuess / Shutterstock
Although there are negative reviews about the castle’s admission fees, there are positive reviews on TripAdvisor as well. While you can tour the castle grounds and courtyard without a guide, you will need a guided tour of the interior. User Maik was completely content with the entrance fee “Fairytale Castle is worth seeing. 6.50 entrance fee or without a guide I got it right.” User Ana talks about her good review of the castle saying “beautiful castle and reasons! TripAdvisor user Klaus N defends the castle saying “I can’t confirm the bad reviews. The trip was perfect and the friendly guide did everything as it should be everything as it should be.”
For an average of more than $2 for parking, which is sometimes taken during the low season, the cost seems reasonable, and for less than $6, you will be given the door to the inner rear of the castle. Remember that the tours are only in German, but books in other languages can be purchased.
Travelers looking to explore the region around Mespelbrun Castle will be pleased to know that there are many other beautiful castles worth visiting. Heidelberg Castle is a stunning castle councin castle overlooking the old town below, and is one of my personal favorites from my trip to Germany. From Mespelbrunn Castle, the drive is about 94 kilometers, and for less than $13 you will get a trip back to the future up to Heidelberg castle, access to the castle courtyard, the Barrel Cellar, and the Museum of the German pharmacy.
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Read the first article in the review.
