The village of Dürnstein, located on the banks of the River Danube in the Wachau region of Austria, has two significant claims to fame. The English King, Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in the old, ruined castle here between 1192 and 1194, whereas today’s castle, which was rebuilt between 1622 and 1630 is now the 5-star Hotel Schloss Dürnstein.

The castle was bought by the Thiery family in 1937 when its transformation into a luxury hotel and restaurant began and has continued ever since. It has been rebuilt, expanded and embellished, with further renovations carried out every year between the end of October and March when the hotel is closed.

Today’s guardians of the Hotel Schloss Dürnstein are third generation members of the Thiery family, Maître Hôtelier Johannes Christian Thiery, Chief Executive Director and his sister, Maria Katharina Thiery-Schroll.

Dramatically located on high ground above one of the most beautiful stretches of the Danube, the hotel provides ample opportunity for admiring the scenery of the Wachau region, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It combines the atmosphere of a historic castle with modern amenities including two swimming pools (indoor and outdoor), sauna, gymnasium, steam bath, conference facilities and winter garden. Located on the terrace, the winter garden enables guests to admire the view whatever the weather.

The restaurant team offers Austrian and International cuisine and the cellar is well stocked with good examples of the region’s famous wines. The Wachau Valley is particularly famous for its white wine and apricots. Apricot flambée, prepared in front of the guest, is a speciality of the restaurant. The recently-opened wine cellar is a wonderful venue for wine tastings.

The Hotel Schloss Dürnstein is honoured to be a member of the Chaîne, which brings together people from all over the world in the appreciation of fine cuisine and fine wines to share the values of excellence and brotherhood.

Werner Scheibenpflug
Chargé de Presse

All photos (c) Hotel Schloss Dürnstein