All About Schloß Seefeld
Not to be confused with Magic Castle Seefeld in the Tirol region some 120km to the south, Schloss Seefeld was once an important 13th-century Castle Keep in Bavaria.
Seefeld Castle is now a thriving cultural offering in Upper Bavaria.
Fully restored to its former glory, this heritage site is home to many fun activities for visitors.
Features include an art collection, wide-screen cinema, and traditional Bavarian craftsmen, there’s plenty to see, do, and buy.
If you find yourself in the Five Lakes region with some free time or want an eventful but tranquil day out from Munich, Seefeld Castle is a perfect choice.
What is the History of Seefeld Castle?
Schloss Seefeld, as we know it today, is the product of 8 centuries of history.
After the acquisition of the forest in the 13th century, the castle was constructed to house the Toerring-Jettenbach family. It has been the subject, like many buildings of its character, of much change throughout the years.
This means buildings such as the chapel, which has been replaced a total of 3 times over the years so far, provide a special type of perspective into the history of Seefeld, its nobility, and mire!
While original additions to the castle were defensive, such as the keep and towers, after the 16th-century new construction focused on pleasure, including summer houses and fountains in the gardens, and the theatre.
At the turn of the 20th century, the castle had lost many of its defensive buildings, though Schloss Seefeld still offers visitors a chance to see many uniquely well-preserved features of a medieval Bavarian keep.
Where is Castle Seefeld Located?
Located southwest of Munich, Seefeld finds itself at the heart of the Five Lakes region, 20 minutes drive west of Starnberg.
With exquisite scenery including glimmering lakes, sprawling meadows, and lush forests, it’s no wonder Seefeld Castle was built with views of the Pilsensee.
This also explains why the region was beloved by German romantics, one of which was Seefeld Castle resident, Clemens August Graf von Toerring-Seefeld.
What is There to do Around Schloss Seefeld?
1. Castle Seefeld Museum and Grounds
Aside from the chance to see five distinct architectural styles from throughout history come together, the Schloss Seefeld museum also details the history of the castle and the surrounding area, based upon court documents and paintings, like the engraving by Bavarian artist Michael Wening.
2. Castle Seefeld Interior
Much of the furniture that still dons Castle Seefeld’s interior was added in 1736, and a chance to see this eighteenth century style is best done in the chapel. However, the Silver Hall with its pristine mirrored ceiling, distinct stucco decorations, and walls of oil paint portraits is a great way to transport yourself into the lives of Seefeld’s lords.
3. Bräustüberl Schloss Seefeld
Stop for a spot of traditional Bavarian cuisine at the Bräustüberl Schloss Seefeld. This family run restaurant, housed in the original Graf-Toerring brewery, is a cosy eatery where you can try the beer that Seefeld was known for. Take advantage of the beautiful views while you take a breather, with outdoor seating in the atmospheric castle courtyard.
4. A Spot of Shopping
Once you’ve finished your meal head outside to the preserved farmyard and barns, or baroque archway, where you’ll find a range of boutiques exclusive to Schloss Seefeld. Here you can pick up some distinct Bavarian souvenirs, or browse artists’ studios for the perfect paintings.
5. Kino Breitwand
Finally, end your day at the cinema lounge, open daily from 6pm, complete with a cafe to enjoy a glass of wine while you watch the sunset over Seefeld. Here you can also catch some live jazz music or unique German films that you’ll find nowhere else.
How to Get to Seefeld Castle
If you’d like to take public transportation from Munich to the castle, simply hop on the S-Bahn line 5 in the direction of Herrsching, and depart at Seefeld-Hechendorf station, 15 minutes walk from Schloss Seefeld through the charming town.
If you’re arriving by car, take the A96 from Munich towards Lindau.
Then, take the Oberpfaffenhofen exit in the direction of Herrsching. At the second set of traffic lights make a left, and you’ll find yourself in Seefeld.
Parking is available, with two car parks in the town and at the castle, and disabled parking in front of the castle bridge.
Castle Seefeld: Home to the Counts of Törring-Seefeld
The Counts of Toerring-Jettenbach at Seefeld have been staunch supporters of the powerful Wittelsbach Dynasty from the 14th century.
They were very influential of the Electorate and held much sway in the Bavarian Royal Court.
Seefeld is a municipality in the district of Starnberg in Bavaria, Germany. The town lies on the western shore of the Pilsensee (“Pilsen Lake”).
Schloss Seefeld: Well worth an afternoon trip from Munich
Whilst certainly not as high profile as many other Castles in Bavaria, Schloss Seefeld is a wonderful place to really get away from the touristic buzz of the area and is almost exclusively visited by Germans.
Most of the information and boards throughout the property are in German, so make sure you’ve got your smartphone set to translate!
From Seefeld Castle, you can take an idyllic and relaxing hike, first through the Höllgraben past the small town of Widdersberg and its quaint St. Michael’s Church, and onwards to the famous Andechs Monastery, which you can see just a few kilometers ahead.
We love the laid-back vibe of the place, and of course, thoroughly enjoy the Beer Garden in the middle of the castle courtyard surrounding the castle’s Bräustüberl.
We hope you enjoy visiting Schloss Seefeld as much as we have. If you like reading about castles then why not check out our article on Grünwald Castle in Munich which is also a top day out.
Cheers and thanks for reading.
