Burgruine Stauf, Medieval castle ruins in Haibach ob der Donau, Austria
Burgruine Stauf is a medieval castle complex in Haibach ob der Donau with a hexagonal tower, palace building, and outer stone walls. The site contains the remains of multiple defensive and residential structures built across different periods of the Middle Ages.
The castle first appeared in written records in 1125 under the ownership of Wernhard de Stove. Various noble families held and controlled the site over many centuries, shaping its long history.
The name Stauf comes from ancient language and refers to a cup without a foot, which reflects the region's linguistic past. This naming connects today's visitors to a distant heritage and shapes how the place is remembered locally.
Hiking trails near the B130 road provide access to the ruins through a walk uphill to the site. Check local conditions before your visit, as access and timing can vary with the seasons.
The ruins are often overlooked, yet the elevated location offers broad views across the surrounding valley and makes it a quiet destination for curious visitors. This vantage point reveals why the site held such strategic importance as a fortified location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
