Chapel
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Schloss Wernberg / Stift Wernberg

4.6
·112 reviews·Wernberg, Austria

A historic monastery offering warm hospitality, delicious farm-to-table dining, and a glimpse into the serene life of the Missionary Sisters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily Lunch (12:00-15:00)

Enjoy fresh, local cuisine

CrowdMedium
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Chapel

Schloss Wernberg / Stift Wernberg

Best Time

Daily Lunch (12:00-15:00)

Enjoy fresh, local cuisine

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic monastery offering warm hospitality, delicious farm-to-table dining, and a glimpse into the serene life of the Missionary Sisters.

4.6
(112 reviews)

"Great little gem in Wernberg, what a great experience dining there."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tours & Meals

Contact the monastery in advance to schedule your visit and dining experience. :calendar:

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy the simple, delicious meals made with fresh ingredients from their farm and gardens. :forkandknifewithplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monastery Tour with the Sisters

Monastery Tour with the Sisters

Schloss Wernberg

Discover the history and daily life of the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood. Tours are often led by the sisters themselves, offering a unique and personal perspective.

Reddit
Farm-to-Table Monastery Dining

Farm-to-Table Monastery Dining

Stift Wernberg Dining Hall

Savor simple, delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients from the monastery's gardens and farm. A true taste of wholesome living.

Reddit
The Singing Nun's Performance

The Singing Nun's Performance

Schloss Wernberg

Experience the joy and talent of the sisters, particularly Sister Monika, who may share her singing and musical talents during your visit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

Schloss Wernberg, also known as Stift Wernberg, is a working monastery. Tours and dining are often by appointment. Contacting them ahead ensures you can experience their hospitality and learn about their history without disappointment. Reddit

Embrace Simple, Local Dining

The monastery is renowned for its delicious, farm-to-table meals prepared with ingredients from their own gardens and farm. Expect fresh, wholesome dishes that reflect a simple yet satisfying culinary experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daily Lunch (12:00-15:00)
Why
Enjoy fresh, local cuisine
Crowd
Medium
When
By Appointment
Why
Ensure a personalized tour
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nekrolog - was ist denn das? 🤔 #nekrolog #totenbuch #gedenken #jedentag #🕯 #rip #kloster #windberg #wirfüreuchinwindberg
@kloster.windberg
2.9K likes • 44.2K views

🎯 Book Tours & Meals

Contact the monastery in advance to schedule your visit and dining experience. Reddit :calendar:

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy the simple, delicious meals made with fresh ingredients from their farm and gardens. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

🔔 Glocken der Klosterkirche Windberg 🔔 #glocken #geläut #kloster #windberg #wirfüreuchinwindberg
@kloster.windberg
1.6K likes • 31.6K views
Guest in Paradise #castle #gardenparty #friendship #orsinirosenberg
gerykeszler
92 likes • 0 views

🎶 Experience the Music

If you're lucky, you might hear the talented sisters sing during your visit. Reddit :musical_note:

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is available in a gravel lot by the front gate for cars. Reddit :car:

english landscape garden and park
markusorsinirosenberg
88 likes • 915 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours & Meals

Contact the monastery in advance to schedule your visit and dining experience. Reddit :calendar:

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy the simple, delicious meals made with fresh ingredients from their farm and gardens. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

🎶 Experience the Music

If you're lucky, you might hear the talented sisters sing during your visit. Reddit :musical_note:

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is available in a gravel lot by the front gate for cars. Reddit :car:

🏡 Consider a Stay

Guest quarters are available if you wish to stay and experience monastic life. Reddit :housewithgarden:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(112 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Schloss Wernberg is highly praised for its warm hospitality, delicious farm-to-table dining, and the unique experience of interacting with the Missionary Sisters. Visitors consistently highlight the fresh, wholesome meals and the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere of the monastery. Some minor points of feedback include the need for advance booking and the simplicity of the facilities, which aligns with the monastic lifestyle.

"Stopped here for a tour and some dinner as part of our Trafalgar Switzerland and Austria trip. Great little monastery with a lot of history. They had the sweetest people and the “lead nun” was an absolute gem. The dinner was simple but delicious and with all local ingredients!"

Mark S Smith

"Just west of Villach, in the rural countryside, is the Castle Wernberg Kloster, overlooking the Drau River. The ancient Castle dates back to 1575, when it began as a Benedictine monastery. It fell into disrepair and the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood discovered it, renovated it and it is now their working home and farm.
Our tour and dinner were hosted by Sister Monika, the Singing Nun. She did indeed play and sing for us and gave a very informative tour, telling us about the monastery and the Sisters work there.
Dinner was supplied from the monastery gardens and farm. It was fresh simple fare; home farm raised chicken, and salads from their gardens, fresh bread from their ovens, and fresh fruit from their trees. It was quite good.
The lifestyle for these 62 sisters [who, at the time of our visit, ranged in age from 45-97] is wholesome, simple, and filled with fresh air, joy, work, and prayer.
There are guest quarters for those who wish to stay and join the sisters for a few days.
There are single stall restrooms, which are very clean, and simple.
Free Parking is available for autos only in a gravel lot. By the front gate.
Make an appointment to tour this peaceful place."

Celeste Ruppelt

"Great little germ in Wernberg, what a great experience dining there. I am so mad at myself for putting of trying this great little place. Very reasonable price for the quality. Beware, they only open daily for lunch (unless they have other announcement) from 12:00 to 15:00. Menu includes Salad, Soup, 2 mains to choose from and a dessert. Please go and have a great time and support the local nunnery."

Steven Yu

What People Like

Warm sister hospitality
Delicious farm-fresh food
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Need for advance booking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Schloss Wernberg is located just west of Villach, overlooking the Drau River. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method, with free parking available at the front gate. Reddit

Information on direct public transport routes is limited. It's best to check local bus or train schedules for routes near Wernberg or consider driving. Reddit

There is free parking available for cars in a gravel lot located by the front gate of the monastery. Reddit

Driving is recommended for ease of access, especially if you plan to visit during their lunch hours. Ensure you have directions ready as it's in a rural countryside setting. Reddit

The drive is generally straightforward, situated in the rural countryside west of Villach. Follow local signage for Wernberg. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While not explicitly stated as 'tickets,' it's highly recommended to make an appointment for tours and dining to ensure availability and a personalized experience. Reddit

The monastery is typically open daily for lunch from 12:00 to 15:00. For tours and other activities, it's best to contact them directly to arrange an appointment. Reddit

It's strongly advised to make an appointment for tours and meals. While spontaneous visits might be possible for a brief look, a reservation guarantees your experience. Reddit

Specific entry fees for tours are not widely published, but dining is described as very reasonably priced for the quality. It's best to inquire directly about tour costs when booking. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and often led by the sisters themselves, offering a unique insight into their life and the monastery's history. Booking in advance is essential. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Tours provide insights into the monastery's history, the work of the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood, and their daily life. Some tours may include musical performances by the sisters. Reddit

While no strict dress code is mentioned, it's a place of religious significance. Modest attire is generally recommended out of respect. Reddit

Yes, single-stall restrooms are available and described as very clean and simple. Reddit

The monastery offers guest quarters for those who wish to stay and experience a few days of monastic life. Inquire about availability when booking. Reddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, wholesome, and filled with joy and work. It's a place of tranquility and spiritual significance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The dining experience features simple, delicious, and wholesome meals made with fresh ingredients sourced from the monastery's own gardens and farm. Expect dishes like farm-raised chicken, fresh salads, homemade bread, and fruit. Reddit

The lunch menu usually includes a salad, soup, two main course options, and a dessert. The focus is on fresh, seasonal, and local produce. Reddit

The dining experience is considered very reasonably priced for the quality of the food and the unique setting. Reddit

Given the focus on fresh garden produce, vegetarian options are likely available or can be accommodated. It's best to inquire when making your reservation. Reddit

Yes, reviews mention fresh bread from their ovens, indicating it's baked on the premises. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While general photography for personal use is usually permitted in common areas, it's always best to be respectful and ask for permission before taking photos, especially in private or sacred spaces within the monastery. Reddit

The castle grounds, the scenic views overlooking the Drau River, and the charming monastery architecture offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The gardens can also be picturesque. Reddit

It's advisable to ask your guide during the tour. Some areas might be restricted for photography to maintain the sanctity of the space. Reddit

As a religious and working monastery, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited. Always check local regulations and monastery policies before flying a drone. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) would be useful for capturing both wider architectural shots and details. A prime lens could be good for low-light interiors if permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Schloss Wernberg offers a unique and educational experience for families. The opportunity to see a working monastery and learn about the sisters' daily lives can be fascinating for children. The farm-to-table dining experience, with its emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients, is often a hit with younger palates. Reddit

Consider booking a tour that might include a glimpse into the monastery's farm or gardens. The peaceful atmosphere of the location also provides a calm environment for families. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open spaces and the novelty of the setting can be engaging enough for a memorable family outing. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Retreatants

For those seeking a peaceful retreat and spiritual connection, Stift Wernberg offers a unique opportunity. The Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood provide guest quarters, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the monastic lifestyle for a few days. This includes participating in prayer, work, and experiencing the tranquility of the monastery. Reddit

The simple, wholesome environment and the warm hospitality of the sisters create a conducive atmosphere for reflection and rejuvenation. It's a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with oneself in a serene setting. Inquire directly with the monastery about booking a retreat or a longer stay. Reddit

🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers

Food enthusiasts will appreciate the authentic farm-to-table dining experience at Stift Wernberg. The focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients from their own gardens and farm ensures a delicious and wholesome meal. It's a chance to taste the true flavors of the region prepared with care and tradition. Reddit

Beyond the meal itself, the story behind the food—prepared by the sisters using their own produce—adds a unique dimension to the culinary exploration. The reasonable prices for the quality offered make it an excellent value for those seeking an authentic gastronomic adventure. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Mission of Stift Wernberg

Schloss Wernberg, also known as Stift Wernberg, boasts a rich history dating back to 1575 when it began as a Benedictine monastery. Over time, it fell into disrepair, but its story was revitalized by the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood. These dedicated sisters discovered the ancient castle, undertook its renovation, and transformed it into their vibrant home and working farm. Their mission is centered around a wholesome, simple lifestyle filled with joy, work, and prayer. Reddit

Today, the monastery is home to a community of sisters whose ages range from 45 to 97. They live a life of purpose, contributing to the upkeep of the farm, tending to their gardens, and welcoming visitors. The sisters are known for their warmth and hospitality, making Stift Wernberg a place of peace and spiritual reflection for those who visit. Reddit

The sisters' commitment extends to their culinary offerings, where they utilize the bounty of their land to create delicious, farm-to-table meals. This dedication to self-sufficiency and community spirit is a cornerstone of their existence and a significant draw for visitors seeking an authentic and meaningful experience. Reddit

A Culinary Journey at the Monastery

Dining at Stift Wernberg is an experience in itself, offering a unique taste of monastic life. The meals are prepared with the freshest ingredients harvested directly from the monastery's own gardens and farm. This farm-to-table approach ensures that every dish is not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome and flavorful. Reddit

Visitors can expect a simple yet satisfying menu, typically including a refreshing salad, a comforting soup, a choice of two main courses, and a delightful dessert. The emphasis is on natural flavors and high-quality produce, reflecting the sisters' dedication to healthy living. Reviews consistently praise the quality and taste of the food, often highlighting dishes made with home-raised chicken, fresh bread from their ovens, and fruits from their trees. Reddit

The dining experience is also characterized by its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The sisters' hospitality makes guests feel like part of the community, adding a personal touch to the culinary journey. It's a chance to support a local religious community while enjoying a truly memorable and nourishing meal. Reddit

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