Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria

Driving, driving, driving... oooh! Castle! Gotta love Europe!

Before driving home, we checked out Hohenwerfen Castle, about 30 minutes south of Salzburg. We parked, bought tickets, and took the funicular (I STILL couldn't remember what it was called!) up to the castle.

Neato!

Mighty Hohenwerfen Castle has towered over the 155 meter high craggy rock pillar above the Salzachtal Valley for more than 900 years. These are some of the best preserved late medieval defenses and rooms in Austria.  Over the centuries, the castle has seen countless attacks, seiges, and gone through many rulers and lords.

The castle reached its current state in the 15th century after hundreds of years of expansions and changes.

Looking down from the castle to the Salzachtal Valley. So beautiful. Austria has to be one of my favorite countries to drive through. The hills are definitely alive. With the sound of music. Ah-ah-ah-ah.

This castle is a sister fortification to Hohensalzburg in Salzburg and were built around the same time.

Some hand-crafted glass artisans had their work on display including this awesome light fixture.

Kids loving life.  Walking down the walled in courtyard.

The Evans family at Hohenwerfen Castle on Saturday March 26th 2016.

The cute door to... the old outhouse! Inside there was a statue of a dude doing his business. Don't worry, I'll spare you the photo.

Looking back up towards the castle.  I spy my little family!

The castle tavern looked like fun and we were hungry so we decided to get some lunch.  Fox enjoying the view.

Kids. They were actually really good as we explored the castle sans stroller.

As soon as I saw Kasespatzel on the menu I knew what I was getting!

After lunch the sun had more fully come out and revealed a gorgeous day. 

We drove across the river so we could take in the castle in all its glory. 

Not too shabby!

We still have over 1.5 years here, but I'm already missing living in Europe, if that makes sense.

Look! Salzburg! For reals! Above the stadium, that bright white structure is the Hohensalzburg Fortress. I was tempted to take a little detour to see Salzburg again, but I was outnumbered.

As always, a fun trip! Next stop: Bucharest, Romania!