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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy fresh, local cuisine

Schloss Wernberg / Stift Wernberg
Best Time
Enjoy fresh, local cuisine

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

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.

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.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace Simple, Local Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:🎶 Experience the Music
If you're lucky, you might hear the talented sisters sing during your visit.
:musical_note:🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available in a gravel lot by the front gate for cars.
:car:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:🎶 Experience the Music
If you're lucky, you might hear the talented sisters sing during your visit.
:musical_note:🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available in a gravel lot by the front gate for cars.
:car:🏡 Consider a Stay
Guest quarters are available if you wish to stay and experience monastic life.
:housewithgarden:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
There is free parking available for cars in a gravel lot located by the front gate of the monastery.
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.
The drive is generally straightforward, situated in the rural countryside west of Villach. Follow local signage for Wernberg.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
While no strict dress code is mentioned, it's a place of religious significance. Modest attire is generally recommended out of respect.
Yes, single-stall restrooms are available and described as very clean and simple.
The monastery offers guest quarters for those who wish to stay and experience a few days of monastic life. Inquire about availability when booking.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, wholesome, and filled with joy and work. It's a place of tranquility and spiritual significance.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The lunch menu usually includes a salad, soup, two main course options, and a dessert. The focus is on fresh, seasonal, and local produce.
The dining experience is considered very reasonably priced for the quality of the food and the unique setting.
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.
Yes, reviews mention fresh bread from their ovens, indicating it's baked on the premises.
📸 📸 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.
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.
It's advisable to ask your guide during the tour. Some areas might be restricted for photography to maintain the sanctity of the space.
As a religious and working monastery, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited. Always check local regulations and monastery policies before flying a drone.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Retreatants
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.
🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Mission of Stift Wernberg
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.
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.
A Culinary Journey at the Monastery
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit