Photos courtesy of Schloss Wespenstein
It’s thought the first structure to appear on this site around 1250 functioned as a customs house. It was not until 1337, though, that the first documentation appeared, mentioning a “Hus Grevental.”
In the 16th century, a number of historical personages came to visit. In 1530, Martin Luther, who preached in the castle chapel, and the Elector of Saxony were guests, followed in 1547 by Emperor Charles V and the Duke of Alba.
The dukes of Saxe-Gotha acquired the estate in 1679, but seven years later, much of the castle was destroyed by fire and only partially rebuilt.
In 1826, the castle became a district court under the dukes of Saxe-Meiningen and was rebuilt in the manner we see today.
Pamela’s Perspective
My favorite castle hotels are those that are owned by someone with a passion for the architecture and history and who, stone by stone, brings new life to it. If you’re on a budget and want to experience an authentic castle hotel, this is the place.
Schloss Wespenstein
A 16th-century castle
Contact
Schlossberg 1
98743 Gräfenthal
Tel: ++49 (0) 178 4259 045
or: ++49 (0) 36703 719 450
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Fast facts
4 rooms
Single room: from 49 euros
Double rooms: from 59 euros
Camping allowed on grounds.
Breakfast is extra.
Open: all year
Getting there
Gräfenthal is just over the border from Bavaria. Coming from the west, take route 281 in the direction of Neuhaus am Rennweg. Continue on and take L1098 east. Start looking for signposts with“Schloss Wespenstein” and Gräfenthal. Castle is on the hill.
What to do
On site: museum; horse and
carriage tours
Nearby: hiking; bicycling; skiing;
Lauscha glassblowers
Weddings
Yes. Inquire hotel for details.
Schloss Wespenstein is a delightful work in progress. Every year, a new building goal improves the integrity of the castle structure.
A stay here is authentic and romantic. No fancy frills needed! And the best part is the friendliness and warm welcome from the staff. Picturesque and tranquil, the Schiefergebirge Mountains in the distance enclose a world from some other century.
Guest rooms are clean and functional. If you wish an en suite bathroom with a shower and toilet, opt for the apartment. Otherwise, the bathroom is across the hall on a share basis.
The castle has a restaurant that is open every day for guests. Food is tasty and at reasonable prices. Outside is a beer garden. There is also a communal kitchen where you can prepare your own meals or perhaps a lunch to take on your excursions.
It is possible to stay here just one night, but it is preferred that you stay a while, and room rates will be discounted accordingly.
Something special
Events, such as carnivals, dances, music, and banquets, are held every month.