Schloss Tarasp

Schloss Tarasp Review

The village is dominated by the magnificently picturesque stronghold Schloss Tarasp, perched 500 feet above. This grand castle lords over the valley with an impressive main tower. The oldest sections date from the 11th century, when the castle was built by the leading family of Tarasp. Tarasp became part of Austria in 1464; the imperial eagle still can be seen on the castle walls. In the early 1800s Napoléon gave Tarasp to Canton Graubünden, newly part of the Swiss federation. The castle went through several owners and subsequent neglect before passing into private hands in the early 20th century. You must join a tour (German-language, with some info in English) to see the interiors, which range from the Romanesque chapel to the opulent 19th-century reception rooms; the schedule varies, but there are at least two tours a day from May to October. Call ahead for times. Special midnight tours are conducted during the full moon. The bus from Vulpera departs roughly every hour. It's a 1½-hour walk from Scuol, following a well-marked path that goes over the Punt'Ota (high bridge).