Picture this: you’re walking through cobblestone streets where knights once roamed, surrounded by 13th-century architecture that looks like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale. Welcome to Mauterndorf, Austria’s best-kept secret that somehow manages to make even the most jaded traveler feel like they’ve stepped into a medieval storybook.
Located in the Lungau region at the southeastern tip of Salzburgerland, this enchanting market town of just 1,700 residents packs more charm per square meter than places ten times its size. Unlike the tourist-packed destinations elsewhere in Austria, Mauterndorf offers something increasingly rare: authenticity without the crowds. Here, you can actually hear your footsteps echo through ancient castle halls without bumping into tour groups every five minutes.
What makes Mauterndorf absolutely irresistible? It’s the perfect storm of medieval history, breathtaking Alpine scenery, and that distinctly Austrian gemütlichkeit (coziness) that makes you want to extend your stay indefinitely. Whether you’re a history buff dying to explore a real medieval castle, an outdoor enthusiast craving alpine adventures, or simply someone seeking refuge from the modern world’s chaos, Mauterndorf delivers in spades.
History at a Glance
Mauterndorf’s story begins with cold, hard cash – or rather, the medieval equivalent of highway robbery. The name of the village originates from the word “maut” which means toll, and this wasn’t just any ordinary toll booth. Since the Middle Ages, the rules of the land have taxed the crossing of the alps at Mauterndorf along the famous Roman trade route “Via Imperialis.”
The site has been fortified since 326 A.D., guarding the Roman trade route crossing the Tauern mountain pass, but the castle that dominates the town today first appears in written records from 1253. For centuries, this strategic position made Mauterndorf incredibly wealthy as precious items such as salt, wheat flour, grain, wine and spices were transported along the ancient Roman trade routes over the Tauern mountains.
The castle’s golden age came in the 16th century when Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach used it as a summer residence. Can you blame him? Even medieval bishops knew a good thing when they saw it. The castle belonged to the Archdiocese of Salzburg until 1806, serving as one of their administrative centers and basically functioning as the medieval equivalent of a luxury resort for high-ranking church officials.
After nearly 200 years of decay (because apparently even castles go through rough patches), an extensive renovation of the Mauterndorf Castle was carried out in the early 1980s, and consequently, an adventure castle of a unique character emerged. Today, it stands as one of Austria’s best-preserved medieval fortresses, ready to transport visitors back 800 years with just one step through its ancient gates.
Location & Coordinates
Coordinates: 47.1339° N, 13.6848° E
Elevation: 1,123 meters (3,684 feet) above sea level
Region: Salzburg Lungau, Austria
District: Tamsweg
Population: Approximately 1,700 residents
Mauterndorf sits like a jewel in the heart of the Lungau Valley, strategically positioned between the Niedere Tauern and Nockberge mountain ranges. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve location puts you right in the center of some of Austria’s most pristine alpine landscapes, with easy access to both winter sports and summer hiking adventures.
Fun Facts & Legends
The Toll Master’s Greeting: Centuries ago, the sundial above the Mauterndorf castle gate greeted merchants, scoundrels and travelers on their way through the Lungau region. The portal where passing traders once heard the words: “Open your bag and pay the toll” – imagine being that trader after weeks of dangerous mountain travel, only to be hit with medieval customs fees!
Hermann Göring’s Connection: In his childhood, Hermann Göring often lived here. Mauterndorf Castle belonged to his godfather, Hermann von Epenstein, and after the death of Epenstein’s widow, it went to Göring. While this connection adds a complex historical layer, today the castle is all about celebrating medieval life and family fun.
Austria’s Highest Railway: The airfield in Mauterndorf is actually the highest in the Austrian Alps and a gathering place for glider pilots from all over the world, while the Taurachbahn Mauterndorf is known as the highest narrow-gauge railway in Austria.
Medieval Dress-Up Dreams: The whole family can borrow clothing from the medieval wardrobe and dress as anything from jokes, bishops, and princesses to knights – because who doesn’t want to live out their Game of Thrones fantasies?
Reasons to Go
Escape the Tourist Hordes: Mauterndorf is not entirely run over by large hordes of tourists as many other places in Austria are, not because of a lack of things to do or see. You get all the Alpine magic without fighting for photo spots.
Medieval Immersion Like Nowhere Else: Where else can you explore a perfectly preserved 13th-century castle, dress up in period costumes, and dine in a medieval restaurant all in one afternoon?
Year-Round Adventure: Summer brings hiking, cycling, and medieval festivals, while winter transforms the region into a pristine wonderland perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.
UNESCO Biosphere Beauty: You’re not just visiting a town; you’re experiencing one of Austria’s most protected and pristine natural environments.
Authentic Austrian Culture: From traditional alpine architecture to genuine mountain hospitality, Mauterndorf offers the real Austria, not the tourist-sanitized version.
Main Attractions
Mauterndorf Castle (Burg Mauterndorf)
The crown jewel of the town, this 13th-century fortress offers interactive exhibits, medieval dress-up opportunities, and stunning panoramic views from its 44-meter tower.
Taurachbahn Museum Railway
Austria’s highest narrow-gauge railway provides nostalgic steam train rides through breathtaking Alpine scenery.
Grosseck-Speiereck Adventure Mountain
Cable car access to high-altitude hiking trails, panoramic viewing platforms, and winter ski slopes.
Historic Town Center
Perfectly preserved medieval market square with traditional stepped-gable houses and authentic Alpine architecture.
St. Wolfgang Church
Beautiful 15th-century Baroque church featuring ornate interior design, stunning frescoes, and impressive stained glass windows.
Adventure Pool Mauterndorf
Summer family fun with outdoor swimming, giant water slides, and children’s play areas.
Things To Do
Castle Adventures: Spend hours exploring Mauterndorf Castle’s six floors, trying on medieval armor, and climbing the watchtower for epic valley views. The audio guide makes it perfect for solo exploration or family fun.
Medieval Time Travel: Visit during the annual Medieval Festival in July when the entire town transforms into a living history experience complete with knights, artisans, and period entertainment.
Steam Train Nostalgia: Take a ride on the Taurachbahn for a charming journey through Alpine landscapes that feels like traveling back in time.
Swimming & Water Fun: Cool off at the Adventure Pool with its giant slides and solar-heated pools, or head to nearby Badeinsel Tamsweg for indoor swimming options.
Cultural Exploration: Wander the historic town center, admiring the traditional architecture and popping into local shops and cafes for authentic Austrian treats.
Hiking & Cycling
Hiking Paradise: Mauterndorf is a hiker’s haven in the Salzburg region with trails ranging from family-friendly nature walks to challenging alpine ascents. The Grosseck-Speiereck region offers spectacular high-altitude hiking with cable car access for those who prefer to start their adventure at altitude.
Cycling Heaven: In Mauterndorf in the Lunga holiday region, you´ll find an extensive network of well signposted cycle paths and mountain bike trails. A special tip for families and leisure cyclists is the Mitterberg Tour: it involves approximately 200 meters in elevation gain, a maximum gradient of 12%, about 30 kilometers in length.
E-Bike Adventures: Enjoy the E-Bike through the Lungau holiday region. The electric motor supports its own driving performance. This makes cycling even more fun with rental stations throughout the region.
Mur Cycle Path: Cycle along the second longest river in Austria from the Mur source in Muhr in the Lungau holiday region to Bad Radkersburg – though you probably won’t want to do all 365 kilometers in one go!
Mountain Biking: Mountain bikers can enjoy active hours with 15 tours with a total length of 560 kilometres ranging from gentle valley rides to challenging alpine single tracks.
Events Not to Miss
Medieval Festival (July): Time travel a few hundred years back to the Middle age when the entire village was full of people dressed in historical costumes, and armed knights roamed the streets mingling with flame breathers. This two-day weekend festival is the highlight of Mauterndorf’s cultural calendar.
Samson Parade: Traditional Austrian folk celebration featuring giant puppet figures and colorful processions through the historic streets.
Christmas Markets: Winter transforms Mauterndorf into a magical wonderland with traditional Austrian Christmas markets and seasonal festivities.
Lungau Cultural Events: Throughout the year, the region hosts various cultural festivals, traditional music performances, and local celebrations that showcase authentic Austrian Alpine culture.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) offers perfect hiking weather and the Medieval Festival, while winter (December-March) provides excellent skiing and magical snow-covered scenery. The best time to visit Mauterndorf, Austria is during the summer months of June, July, and August.
Getting There: The nearest major airport is Salzburg (about 1.5 hours by car). Regular bus services connect Mauterndorf to Salzburg and other regional centers. Having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region.
Accommodation: Mauterndorf town center: This is the most convenient location to stay as it offers easy access to the castle, museums, restaurants, and shops. Options range from traditional Austrian guesthouses to modern hotels and vacation rentals.
LungauCard: With the LungauCard Summer, Lungau vacationers during summer season (May 27th to November 2nd) can enjoy a wide variety of free and discounted activities for the whole family.
Language: While German is the local language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic German phrases will earn you smiles from locals.
Currency: Euro (EUR). Most places accept cards, but having some cash is recommended for smaller establishments and market vendors.
Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants if you’re satisfied with the service.
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
Salzburg (90 minutes): Mozart’s birthplace and one of Europe’s most beautiful baroque cities, perfect for a day trip.
Hallstatt (1 hour): This picturesque town is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s located on the banks of Lake Hallstatt, and makes a great day trip from Mauterndorf.
Hohenwerfen Castle (45 minutes): This medieval castle is located about a half hour drive from Mauterndorf. It’s perched on a hilltop, providing stunning views of the surrounding valley.
Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves (1 hour): Located in Werfen, this 42km long cave system is the largest ice cave in the world. It’s a unique day trip that offers visitors the chance to explore an incredible natural wonder.
Zell am See (45 minutes): This charming alpine town is just a short drive from Mauterndorf. It’s located on the banks of Lake Zell, and is a popular destination for water sports, hiking, and skiing.
Obertauern Ski Resort (30 minutes): One of Austria’s premier ski destinations, offering world-class slopes and alpine dining.
Final Thoughts
Mauterndorf isn’t just a destination, it’s a time machine that happens to serve excellent schnitzel. In a world where authentic experiences are becoming increasingly rare, this medieval market town offers something genuinely special – the chance to step back in time while enjoying all the comforts of modern Austrian hospitality.
Whether you’re exploring the castle’s ancient halls, cycling through UNESCO-protected landscapes, or simply enjoying a coffee in the historic market square, Mauterndorf reminds you why slow travel and genuine cultural immersion beat rushing through Instagram hotspots every single time.
Sure, you might not get a million likes on your social media posts (then again, those castle photos are pretty spectacular), but you’ll get something far more valuable: memories of a place where medieval magic still lives and breathes, where the mountains whisper ancient stories, and where the only thing more authentic than the experience is the warmth of the people who call this extraordinary place home.
Pack your sense of adventure, bring your medieval fantasy dreams, and prepare to fall head over heels for a town that proves the best journeys aren’t always to the most famous places – sometimes they’re to the most magical ones.
