The surroundings of Sopron are renowned not only for their unparalleled natural beauty but also for mysterious, abandoned castles, whose walls echo with centuries of history, legends, and family dramas. These castles are more than just ruins; they serve as important imprints of Hungarian history, stirring all our senses: the past whispers from behind cracked walls, among the branches of old trees, and within nature’s embrace. This article offers an authentic time-travel experience to anyone interested in castle tourism, urban exploration in Sopron, and the secrets of yesteryear.

We provide a detailed overview of the four most intriguing abandoned castles around Sopron: the mystical Sághy Castle in Sopronnémeti, the tragic Sopronhorpács Castle, the baroque Lakompa Castle ruins, and the suddenly depopulated yet elegant Fertőszéplak Széchenyi–Esterházy Castle. We reveal how their destinies were shaped, which legends and historical events are intertwined with them, and practical information to help you prepare for your own exploration.

Enjoy this comprehensive guide to the secret castles of Sopron, where the past truly comes close — whether for historical knowledge or a unique experience among the ruins.

The Sághy Castle, perched on the outskirts of Sopronnémeti, is one of the most imposing yet saddest abandoned castles in Győr-Moson-Sopron County. Its history and ongoing decline border on legend; locals speak of echoes of legends and whispers from the Sághy Castle’s haunted stories that come alive especially during the night hours.

The original castle came into the possession of the Sághy family in the late 19th century and underwent multiple renovations and reconstructions. The current, majestic baroque building took its final shape around 1900. After the turmoil of World War II, the castle experienced several ownership changes, nationalization, and remained abandoned for nearly half a century.

A pivotal moment was the 1990 failed renovation attempt of Sághy Castle, when it was sold for only 500,000 forints amidst waves of privatizations — dreams of restoration soon faded. The city buyer, hoping for tax advantages, tried to breathe new life into the property, but the restoration was never realized, and the structure continued to deteriorate.

Among the abandoned buildings in Sopronnémeti, it has become a magnet for urban explorers, ghost-story enthusiasts, and local history aficionados. The historic park, once a private paradise and communal gathering spot, has been shaped by the passing of time and encroaching nature.

If you choose to explore Sopron’s urban exploration sites, the Sághy Castle’s romantic, almost gothic atmosphere, its picturesque castle park, and the rustling wind among the surrounding trees will enchant you. The Sághy family, whose history is woven into the village’s stories, has forever engraved their name into Sopronnémeti’s history.

The Sopronhorpács Széchenyi Castle park and its monumental building were constructed in the 18th century. Built between 1771-1774 under the commission of Cziráki Mária in baroque style, it was later expanded to host the social elite of the era, embodying the Sopronhorpács Széchenyi Castle as a noble residence. During construction and subsequent renovations, many skilled craftsmen and architects — including Hofstädter Kristóf — worked on the project, and the park became one of the most valuable in the Transdanubian castle gardens.

The castle’s golden age was in the early 19th century: lavish balls were held here, a valuable library was housed, and the family’s art collection was renowned across the country. However, the castles’ ruins after World War II brought a sudden change — severe damages at war’s end, followed by looting that caused most of the library, furnishings, and decorative objects to disappear forever. The once-glorious past was soon replaced by empty, gradually decaying walls.

The Sopronhorpács castle park today, a protected natural area, boasts a rich flora and ancient shade-providing trees, which can resemble a castle ruin garden: walking paths reveal rare plants, centuries-old trees, and remnants of the former decorative gardens. Despite abandonment, the place exudes a captivating scenic beauty, with only the occasional sounds of birds or wind breaking the silence.

Local legends often say that on foggy mornings, the Sopronhorpács Castle’s stories come to life: tales of once-living families, memories of grand balls, and the tragedy of decay seem to hover over the site. The Sopron horpács secret garden park captivates every visitor who explores its pathways with open eyes and a curious heart.

Numerous photographers, history lovers, and urban explorers frequently visit, making it one of the Győr-Moson-Sopron’s notable heritage castles. It vividly reflects Hungary’s castle history’s ups and downs: from golden ages through community management to silent abandonment.

Hidden among the forested hills near Sopron, Lakompa, the village of Lakompa, preserves the ruins of Lánzsér Castle. These baroque castle ruins in Lakompa are historically and culturally unique: the estate has served as a vital defensive and noble residence since the 16th century. The first significant builder, Erasmus Teuffel, constructed a water fortress here between 1548–1552, surrounded by many legends and tragedies, including his death in Constantinople.

In later centuries, other noble families took over, with major renovations during the baroque era, primarily based on the plans of Johann Henrici. The Lakompa castle’s fires (in 1772, 1787, and 1806) inflicted severe damage, leaving parts of the structure unrestored. Napoleon’s wars also played a role in the castle’s history: in 1809, it served as a troop shelter — further deteriorating the building’s condition.

The ruins’ “silent tragedy” largely stems from the fact that the castle was no longer maintained in the 19th century, and later, the remains were partially dismantled. Walking among the remnants near the Lakompa Jewish cemetery — with over 1700 tombstones — offers a unique glimpse into the multicultural and multi-ethnic heritage of the region, with its echoes of a bygone era.

Reaching this urban exploration site around Sopron can be challenging due to the castle’s poor condition and dense undergrowth, yet adventurers are rewarded with extraordinary baroque remains, mystical atmospheres, and the allure of dark legends. Every brick, crack, and remaining decorative element forms a piece of the past awaiting discovery among the shadows of the trees.

The tragic history of the Lakompa Castle by Sopron endures through the ruins — each stone and fragment a testament to the bygone era, waiting in the shade of the woods for the brave explorer.

The haunted castles of the Fertő region include the Fertőszéplak Széchenyi–Esterházy Castle, a remarkable and somber example of how history and political upheavals can transform thriving homes into neglected ruins. The castle was once owned by the Széchenyi family from the mid-18th century, later passing to the Esterházy family. It is therefore sometimes called the Fertőszéplak Széchenyi–Esterházy Castle.

Confiscated during the communist era, it served various functions over decades: a cooperative office, workers’ dormitory, and, like many Hungarian castles, a shared economic facility. In 2011, it was offered for sale for 400 million forints, but with no buyers found, it remains abandoned.

Visitors are greeted by the “Rögtön jövök” inscription on the main entrance, as if the castle is still waiting to return — a silent message across time, indicating that the past still lingers here. Among the ruins in Sopron, this site is a significant historic stage where joyful childhood moments, family celebrations, balls, and later the austerity of the socialist period once took place.

An urban exploration of Sopron reveals many stories concealed in every corner, from the collapsed balcony of the main façade, through empty, curtainless rooms, to the wild overgrowth of the former garden park — all blending into an experience only a Sopron castle tour can provide: a mixture of history, present, and imagination.

The fate of the Esterházy Castle in Fertőszéplak remains uncertain, but it remains a treasure for lovers of historical journeys and urbex adventures.

If you’re planning to explore the abandoned castles around Sopron — whether the Sopronnémeti, Lakompa, Sopronhorpács, or the Fertő region ruins — consider making Hotel Szieszta your starting point and resting place!

Hotel Szieszta is the largest wellness hotel in Sopron, an ideal choice not only for families but also for couples, friends, and individual explorers passionate about urbex. Its location is unbeatable: nestled in the green Lővérek area, close to the city center and surrounded by forests, offering easy access to city culture, natural sights, and historical adventures.

The rooms are spacious, bright, with most featuring balconies overlooking either Sopron or the surrounding hills. Its wellness area includes pools, saunas, and a fitness center, providing the perfect retreat at day’s end. The hotel’s restaurant offers traditional Hungarian cuisine alongside light, healthy dishes — ensuring you have plenty of energy for castle explorations.

Thanks to active leisure options, family-friendly services, and proximity to Sopron’s most stunning attractions, Hotel Szieszta is an almost ideal base for a multi-day adventure around Sopron.

Other excellent accommodations include the Pannonia Hotel, located in the historic city center with a classic style, though its rooms may be smaller and parking more limited; the boutique Hotel Wollner, suited for romantic couples with an appreciation for style; and the Fagus Hotel Conference & Spa, modern with conference facilities, better suited for business travelers. Yet, Hotel Szieszta offers the broadest range of amenities and location for those interested in castles, urbex, and the best sights of Sopron.

Which abandoned castle around Sopron is the most mysterious?

Experts and locals agree that Sághy Castle in Sopronnémeti holds the most secrets. Many legends are associated with it, such as night whispers and ghost sightings, making it often regarded as the most mysterious castle in the area.

Why did these castles become abandoned?

The main reasons include damages caused by World War II, subsequent nationalization, transformations during the communist era, and unsuccessful privatization attempts in the 1990s. Some sites also suffered from fires and vandalism — the Lakompa castle fires serve as prime examples.

Are these castles accessible to visitors?

Most abandoned castles are privately owned or municipally managed. Some, like the Lakompa ruins and park, are freely accessible; others, like Sághy Castle, are private property and should only be approached with care and permission. Always research beforehand, respect conservation rules, and watch out for weather and safety hazards.

What legends or stories are connected to these castles?

The Legends of Sághy Castle in Sopronnémeti include whispers heard within the collapsing walls, mysterious lights at night. The tale of Erasmus Teuffel’s tragic death is linked to Lakompa, while in Sopronhorpács, stories of lost family heirlooms abound. The Fertőszéplak castle’s residents tell of the sign “Rögtön jövök,” as if the castle is still waiting to return.

Tips for preparing an urbex tour around Sopron?

Always wear suitable, durable clothing and footwear, bring enough water, a detailed map or GPS, and inform someone about your route. Enter abandoned buildings at your own risk, respecting private property and legal regulations. Photography is generally allowed, but causing damage or vandalism is forbidden. For more guidance, visit Sopron Media or Amultemlekei.hu.