Schauenstein Castle

Schloss Schauenstein is a castle in Fürstenau, in the Domleschg valley of the Swiss canton of Graubünden. Today it houses a hotel and the restaurant of chef Andreas Caminada, and it remains one of the best-known historic buildings in the area.

Where is Schloss Schauenstein?

The castle stands in Fürstenau, a small village in the Viamala region, at roughly 670 metres above sea level in the heart of Graubünden. From Chur it takes under half an hour to get here, and the valley is among the quieter corners of the eastern Alps.

How did the castle come about?

Its origins go back to the Middle Ages, when the tower served as a defensive element of the episcopal castle town of Fürstenau. The present baroque form is owed to the barons of Schauenstein, who rebuilt it in the second half of the 17th century around the old fortress tower.

In the early 18th century the family sold the estate to Carl Ulysses von Stampa. A fire in 1742 damaged the building, and only the eastern wing was restored to its former grandeur. In the 19th century the west wing housed a boarding school, which closed in 1840. Peter von Planta bought the castle in 1865.

A meeting place for artists

Between 1910 and 1912 Robert von Planta renovated the castle thoroughly and turned it into a gathering place for artists and scientists. In the mid-20th century it passed to Rudolf Schoeller and later to the company Emser Werke.

What is here today?

In 2003 Andreas Caminada opened a restaurant and hotel in the castle. The restaurant is rated 19 points by the Gault Millau guide. Nearby converted buildings were added over time: La Tavlada (2011) and Casa Caminada (2018).

Frequently asked questions

Can I look inside the castle? The interiors serve the hotel and restaurant, so entry usually means booking a table or a stay. You can admire the exterior while strolling through Fürstenau.

Is it a private residence? No. Since 2003 it has been a hotel with a restaurant run by Andreas Caminada.

When is the best time to visit? The Domleschg valley appeals all year: summer suits hiking, winter brings a calmer alpine mood. Book well ahead.

What else is nearby? The Viamala gorge lies close by, as do many other castles of the Domleschg valley, a region known for one of the densest concentrations of castles in Switzerland. Fürstenau also has its own historic village centre.

Who is it for?

Architecture and Swiss history enthusiasts, culinary travellers, and anyone seeking a calm alpine escape off the main tourist routes. The castle combines well with a full-day trip through Graubünden taking in Chur, the Viamala and other valley castles.

Plan the visit several weeks ahead, since restaurant seating is limited and demand from guests around the world is high.