Castles around Güttingen are situated in the Swiss canton of Thurgau, offering a blend of historical sites and natural beauty along Lake Constance. The region features remnants of medieval structures and castles that have evolved into modern residences. These sites provide insights into the area's long history, from early settlements to aristocratic lifestyles. Exploring these landmarks allows visitors to experience the cultural heritage of Güttingen.
Last updated: October 9, 2026
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The name Hersberg is probably derived from the Old High German root word hari/heri for mountain range.[1] The first unsecured written reference is a mention of the brothers Berctoldus and Heinricus von Herisberg in 1276. What is certain is that in 1466 the Hersberg was in the fief of the Überlingen citizen and later Fürstenberg vassal Konrad Rudolf von Härsberg. In 1621 the Benedictines of the Ochsenhausen monastery bought the Hersberg from Härsberg's descendants. After secularization, the monastic property passed to Prince Franz Georg Karl von Metternich in 1803, father of the Austrian State Minister Prince von Metternich. Hersberg was then bought by the House of Württemberg[2] in 1806 and by Prince Konstantin zu Salm-Reifferscheidt in 1838. In an exchange with Waggershausen near Friedrichshafen, the Württemberg exclave of Herrschberg - the name of the territory around Hersberg Castle - became Baden in 1846. Franz zu Salm-Reifferscheidt-Dyck, the descendant of Constantine, sold the castle property on February 7, 1929 to the Pallottines (“Society of the Catholic Apostolate”), who ran the “St. Josef-Hersberg” maintained school operations.[3] In 1994 it was reopened as the Pallottine Spiritual House (Wikipedia).
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Right next to the castle. The mill wheel is powered by water.
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Hagenwil is a well-preserved, well-maintained moated castle and a worthy representative of the olden days
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High above Lake Constance, on a mountain spur, is one of the region's landmarks: Meersburg Castle, also known as "Meersburg Old Castle". The oldest still inhabited castle in Germany.
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This castle is even considered the only preserved moated castle in Switzerland! Further information: https://www.teddy-b.ch/excursion destinations/wasserschloss-hagenwil-tg-traumschloss-in-mostindien/
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Whether from below or from above. The views of the castle or Lake Constance are simply wonderful.
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The region around Güttingen boasts several sites with rich histories. While some, like Meersburg State Winery and Castle Park, are known for their vineyards and historical significance, others offer unique insights. For instance, the Hagenwil Moated Castle is almost 800 years old and has been owned by the Angehm family since 1806. Additionally, the submerged remains of the Mäuseturm offer a unique archaeological perspective, with artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age and Roman period, alongside local legends.
Yes, both Schloss Güttingen and Schloss Moosburg illustrate significant transformations. Schloss Güttingen, originally a 13th-century moated castle, was demolished and rebuilt as an 18th-century residence. Similarly, Schloss Moosburg, a 12th-century moated castle, was replaced by a neoclassical villa in the 19th century, using stones from the original structure. These sites reflect the changing architectural styles and aristocratic lifestyles of the region.
The area around Güttingen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the easy 'Lake Promenade in Uttwil – Lake Constance Cycle Route loop from Güttingen' or the moderate 'Inseli Romanshorn – Lake Promenade in Uttwil loop from Kesswil'. For hiking enthusiasts, there are easy trails like the 'Altnau Pier – Grand Tour Photo Spot Lake Constance loop from Güttingen' and the 'Enchanted Path, Moosburg – Apple Orchard loop from Güttingen'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Güttingen and Hiking around Güttingen guide pages.
Many of the historical sites around Güttingen are considered family-friendly. For example, Meersburg State Winery and Castle Park and Hagenwil Moated Castle are both categorized as family-friendly. The historical context and scenic surroundings provide an engaging experience for all ages. The nearby cycling and hiking routes also offer easy options suitable for families.
Yes, some castles offer dining options. Hagenwil Moated Castle, for instance, has an excellent restaurant serving Thurgau delicacies. Additionally, the town of Meersburg, home to the Meersburg State Winery, has numerous bars and shops, particularly in its lower town, offering various culinary experiences.
The castles and historical sites around Güttingen often provide stunning views, especially due to their proximity to Lake Constance. Meersburg State Winery and Castle Park offers beautiful vistas over Lake Constance and towards Switzerland. Similarly, Hersberg Castle provides a panoramic view from the adjacent bike path, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
The Meersburg State Winery has a rich history of viticulture dating back to 1324. It was once owned by the Prince-Bishops of Constance and later became the first wine-growing domain in Germany. Today, it continues to produce wine from 63 hectares of vineyards, benefiting from the heat-storing effect of Lake Constance and unique volcanic soils. Visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings.
Yes, both Schloss Güttingen and Schloss Moosburg are privately owned. While their historical significance is undeniable and they contribute to the local heritage, direct public access to their interiors might be limited. However, their exteriors and historical context can still be appreciated from public vantage points.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The scenic views over Lake Constance, the well-preserved historical structures like Hagenwil Moated Castle, and the unique archaeological insights offered by sites like the Mäuseturm are often highlighted. The opportunity to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities like cycling and hiking also adds to the appeal.
Beyond the castles themselves, you can explore remnants of historical fortifications. For example, the Meersburg Lower Town Gate is a preserved part of the city's western fortifications, offering a glimpse into its defensive past. While exploring, be aware that areas like Meersburg's lower town can be very crowded, especially on weekends.
Yes, Hersberg Castle, which was once a representative monastery outpost, is now used as an educational facility for the Pallottine community. This transformation highlights the evolving roles of these historical buildings in the modern era.
The region around Lake Constance is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the castles and engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The vineyards, such as those at Meersburg State Winery, are particularly picturesque during these seasons. Summer is also popular, though some areas, like Meersburg's lower town, can be quite crowded.


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