[Translate to English:] Ein Besuch im Schloss Schenna

A visit to Schenna Castle – History, Culture and Tyrolean Heritage in Merano and environs

Alive and quietly commanding, Schenna Castle rises above the village. Majestic, yet never distant, it belongs to the landscape as naturally as the slopes, the gardens and the wide view across the valley. Here, tradition meets the present and history feels tangible. Visitors encounter the distinctive atmosphere of Merano and environs at close quarters.

From many corners of Hotel Hohenwart, the eye is drawn towards the castle. It greets and bids farewell from the Bellavista terrace at the entrance to the main house, and lends a familiar backdrop whilst you unwind in the “Traumkulisse” quiet room or float in the warm waters of the 360° saltwater pool at the VistaSpa. Even a simple stroll through the lanes of Schenna keeps the castle within sight. Its walls and towers feel constant, woven into the landscape. And yet, each visit reveals something new. At times, it is the gardens in bloom; at others, the stillness of evening as the sun settles into the valley. With the changing seasons, the castle opens fresh perspectives across Merano, Merano and environs and the surrounding walking trails.

[Translate to English:] Schloss Schenna mit traumhaftem Ausblick

[Translate to English:] Hoch oben thront das Schloss Schenna

A castle at the Heart of Village Life

Built around 1350, Schenna Castle gained particular prominence under Archduke Johann of Austria and today ranks amongst Tyrol’s most significant historic castles. Yet it is far from a monument frozen in time. It remains lived in, accessible and open to visitors. The Countess of Meran resides here with her husband, Count Spiegelfeld, and continues to welcome guests within its historic walls. Guided tours take place several times a week; regular events bring life to the courtyard, cellars and period rooms.

Its connection to village life is unmistakable. Whilst the centre of Schenna grows lively in the evening, a gentle calm settles on the castle hill above, enhanced by subtle illumination. Past and present meet here quietly, shaping Merano and environs in a way that feels both authentic and enduring.

Beyond the Walls – History to Experience

A guided tour is almost essential not only for the architecture but also for the stories preserved within. The castle houses the largest private collection dedicated to Andreas Hofer, alongside paintings, portraits, antique furnishings, weapons and everyday artefacts spanning several centuries.

Evening tours are particularly atmospheric and are personally led by the Count. As daylight fades and the rooms grow still, history draws closer. Stories unfold in the knights’ hall, the faces of Tyrolean rulers look back from the walls, and time itself seems to soften. At Schenna Castle, there is no formal lecture – only storytelling: vivid, personal and direct.

[Translate to English:] Besonderes Ambiente für Veranstaltungen im Schloss Schenna

[Translate to English:] Gin Festival im Schloss Schenna

Schenna Castle and Events – a Setting for Special Moments

Throughout the year, the castle hosts a carefully curated programme of events that enrich village life and attract visitors from Merano and environs and further afield.

In May, the Gin Festival brings renewed energy to the courtyard and vaulted cellars. In July, the vintage cars of the Südtirol Classic pass by. Historic vehicles set against an equally historic backdrop. During Advent in December, traditional crafts are demonstrated, accompanied by folk music and the scent of local specialities.

Music, too, holds its place here. Performances by the Schenna brass band and classical concerts as part of the Südtirol Festival Meran regularly bring the castle walls to life. To visit is to see, hear and feel history.

For Guests of Hotel Hohenwart

Reaching the castle from Hotel Hohenwart is effortless. A short walk through the village lanes opens onto the historic walls. Those who linger will discover not only the castle itself, but sweeping views across Merano and environs and the gentle slopes of Schenna.

Paths around the castle lead through tended gardens, along ancient stone walls and towards viewpoints offering memorable vistas over the village, Meran and the surrounding mountains.

[Translate to English:] Sehenswürdigkeiten in Ihrem Südtirol Urlaub

[Translate to English:] Die Dorfeinfahrt von Schenna

History that lasts

Schenna Castle is not somewhere one simply ticks off. It is somewhere to experience – in movement, in changing light, in dialogue with the village and the surrounding landscape. Each visit feels different, shaped by season and mood. Those who take their time will sense the calm and the enduring connection between culture and landscape in Merano and environs.

Conclusion

Schenna Castle brings history quietly to life. It unites past and present, village life and culture into something that feels whole. Visitors gain not only insight into the history of South Tyrol, but also lasting impressions of Schenna, Meran and the wider region. Elevated yet deeply rooted, it is a place of stillness – and at the same time, full of life.

[Translate to English:] Mann bekommt Gesichtsmaske im Day Spa Schenna