Our story
A place with history and vision.
Situated directly on the Danube, overlooking the imposing Melk Abbey, Luberegg 1787 is a place where history, exclusivity and hospitality merge in a unique way.
An imperial retreat with a view –
The creation of Luberegg Castle in 1787:
In 1787, Emperor Joseph II had a summer and hunting lodge built in the Wachau for his brother, Archduke Franz – later Emperor Franz I.
The choice of location was no coincidence:
High above the Danube, directly opposite Melk Abbey, a retreat was created far away from courtly duties –
a place of peace, vision and closeness to nature.
The castle ensemble was embedded in a well-thought-out landscape concept:
– with terraces
– Avenues
– and precisely planned sight lines
Luberegg Castle became the heart of a baroque refuge –
intended as an imperial pleasure palace,
but also as an expression of an enlightened way of life.
In 1803, Emperor Franz II used Luberegg Castle as his summer residence.
The retreat high above the Danube served him as a place of relaxation, reflection and exchange –
Far away from courtly constraints, embedded in the peace and beauty of the Wachau.
During this time, Luberegg once again became the vibrant center of an enlightened attitude to life,
where nature, architecture and spirit were in harmony.
From pleasure palace to forester’s house –
The change after 1835:
After the death of Emperor Franz I in 1835, Luberegg Castle lost its imperial purpose.
The complex passed into the possession of various owners – including the Princely Family of Liechtenstein, who managed large parts of the surrounding forests.
From then on, Luberegg served primarily as:
– Forester’s House,
– hunting base,
– and practical administrative location.
The once well-kept garden structures became overgrown, and many architectural elements were altered for practical purposes.
Little of the glory of days gone by remained visible – but the substance survived.
Sleeping Beauty on the Danube –
Use and decay in the 20th century:
In the early 20th century, part of the castle was used as an inn.
Between the war and post-war period, the use changed repeatedly –
without a clear concept, without a long-term perspective.
The historical significance was increasingly forgotten.
In the 1960s and 70s, the ensemble gradually fell into disrepair:
– The basic structure remained intact,
– but the condition continued to deteriorate.
Luberegg slumbered –
an architectural jewel in a deep sleep,
that was waiting to be rediscovered.
After the end of the monarchy, Luberegg Castle was expropriated in 1919
and henceforth administered by the state.
The once imperial retreat thus finally lost its original purpose.
What once radiated splendour and importance has now increasingly become a functional area –
without vision, without care, without perspective.
The glory of times past began to fade.
Between 1920 and 1987, Luberegg Castle experienced turbulent decades. There were repeated attempts to breathe new life into the historic ensemble – but the resources, vision, or persistence were often lacking.
Part of the castle was used as an inn for a time, while other areas served purely practical purposes. Between hope and decay, the site's great potential remained undiscovered for many years.
What remained was the architectural substance – and a faint idea of what this place could one day be again.
A new beginning through our own strength
The turning point from 1988 – the Pichler family and the Donauhof:
The turning point in Luberegg's history began in 1988: Just one week after their wedding, Josef and Eveline Pichler took the step into self-employment - with the construction of the Hotel Donauhof, they fulfilled their lifelong dream.
What began with courage and a vision became a success story: – With a lot of personal commitment, – a high level of quality awareness – and an open ear for the wishes of their guests, they built a lively, family-run business over the decades.
The Donauhof developed into a popular address for travelers, day-trippers, and connoisseurs – and at the same time became the basis for what would later emerge in Luberegg: a new chapter, sustained by experience, hospitality, and genuine trustworthiness.
Vision instead of decay –
The revitalization of Luberegg Castle from 2003:
A property like Schloss Luberegg needs more than just structural renovation – it needs people with vision.
In 2003, Eveline and Josef Pichler recognized the extraordinary potential of this historic property.
Where others saw only a dilapidated ruin, they saw:
– character,
- Story,
– and future.
With unwavering conviction, dedication, and attention to detail, they began to revitalize the castle step by step.
From the once forgotten ensemble, a shining jewel of the Wachau emerged, which today enchants people once again – with atmosphere, style and charm.
The foundation stone for today’s event resort Schloss Luberegg was laid in 1787.
Quality as a principle –
Setting the course at the Hotel Donauhof:
While Luberegg Castle was still in a deep sleep, the Pichler family set a clear example of quality and the future in their existing business.
At the Hotel Donauhof, 24 rooms have been extensively renovated –
with state-of-the-art equipment and sustainable technology:
– cooling ceilings,
– massage mattresses,
– low-energy heating,
– a new exterior facade
– and a modernized kitchen.
This investment was more than just a modernization step: it was an expression of the attitude that would later characterize Schloss Luberegg – comfort, sustainability, and attention to detail.
The departure begins –
Luberegg Castle in the hands of the Pichler family:
With the acquisition of Luberegg Castle by the Pichler family, a new chapter begins: the once neglected complex becomes a stage for celebrations, encounters, and special experiences with heart, vision, and respect for history.
At the same time, the Hotel Donauhof is also taking a significant step: the heating technology is being converted to a resource-saving system with heat recovery – a clear commitment to ecological responsibility and future-oriented thinking.
A year of new beginnings – for the castle, for the region, and for an attitude that is still felt today.
A generational change with attitude –
New perspectives, proven values:
With Maria-Theresa and Franz-Josef Pichler, the next generation follows in the footsteps of their parents.
Familiar with hospitality from an early age, they bring:
– fresh ideas,
– new perspectives
– and a clear claim.
Their goal: to further develop the exclusivity and hospitality of Schloss Luberegg –
with sensitivity, a passion for innovation and a sense for the exceptional.
“Our goal is not just to be hosts – but to create experiences that last.”
– Maria Theresa & Franz Josef Pichler
A generational change with attitude –
and a strong sign for the future of the house.
Something new grows from the ashes –
The 2022 brand and the beginning of a vision:
In 2022, an unexpected fire shook the palace grounds:
The Haferkastn, the gastronomic center of Luberegg Castle, was destroyed.
A place full of memories, encounters and lived hospitality suddenly lay in ruins.
For the Pichler family it was a shock – a loss that hit them right in the heart.
But what many would have seen as a setback became the initial spark for her.
Not reconstruction at any price, but rather: rethinking with foresight.
With courage, creativity and a firm belief in the future
From the ashes a new idea emerged that became reality:
The Schlosserei – Heuriger | Bar
A modern place for enjoyment, encounters and inspiration –
completed in June 2025 – a new beginning with vision.
In 2023, a significant step was taken in the history of Schloss Luberegg: the construction of the new Event & Convention Center.
For the first time, a modern, versatile location has been created on the castle grounds, allowing for the hosting of stylish parties, corporate events, and exclusive formats at a professional level – in direct connection with the historic ambience of the castle.
This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter, not only in terms of space but also in terms of content: Luberegg Castle is developing into a first-class address for exceptional events in the Wachau region – driven by vision, quality, and a clear commitment to hospitality.
The year 2025 marks the beginning of a new era for Schloss Luberegg 1787 – Eventresort Wachau:
For the first time, the castle, hotel, event & convention area and culinary offerings are united under one strong brand –
connected by a line that combines style, authenticity and character.
A place is created that brings together history and future, hospitality and professionalism.
A place for special moments – both private and professional.
Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event or an international conference – here visions find space and encounters find a stage.
With the completed Event & Convention Center and The Schlosserei as the new gastronomic heart, it becomes clear
which has been created over the years with foresight, ambition and sensitivity.
A place that combines architectural clarity, culinary esprit, and inspiring encounters – for discerning people.
For events with distinction. For moments with impact.
This path is carried by Franz-Josef Pichler and his wife Valentina.
They are setting new impulses with foresight – together with Maria-Theresa Blazek, who also runs the Schüttkasten in Geras.
Every project: a sign of lived hospitality.
And very quietly, but full of meaning:
Franziska and Oskar, the children of Franz-Josef and Valentina, grow up in the middle of the action –
lively, curious, in the middle of things.
Just like Lorenz and Frida, the children of Maria-Theresa and Christian Blazek –
connected to the place, with an open mind and a keen sense for what is special.
With them you can feel what makes this place special:
Warmth, naturalness and a feeling of home.
A place with history. A house with a future.
