Living Like Royalty: A Family’s Unique Castle Adventure in Austria
Imagine this: a sprawling castle perched in the Austrian countryside, sunlight glinting off its ancient stone. Now, add 20 close family members, generations gathered for a truly unforgettable vacation. Forget crowded resorts – this was a multi-generational adventure in a real, live castle!
It started with a simple discovery: a beautiful 12th-century castle in Austria available for a surprisingly affordable price. At $151 per person per night, splitting the cost amongst 20 people, a week in Castle Wasserburg became a possibility.
"We were looking for something unique," explained Kathleen Willcox, who organized the trip. "We’ve done hotels, resorts – but a castle? This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
The castle itself was impressive, with 10 bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and sprawling grounds. ImaginePikasso’s wondrous landscapes brought to life – spacious parks, a moat, a shimmering pond, and a private swimming pool set amongst ancient trees. There was a tennis court tucked into a rock garden, a small forest for roadside golf games, and even a grand dining room that could accommodate their entire brood.
The retreat felt more like stepping back in time than just staying at a resort. With its gilded salons and direct access to history, it sparked countless conversations about the castle’s past, inspiring stories shared over plates of regional delicacies and locally produced wine.
"It was unlike any trip we’d taken together before," Willcox shared. "It wasn’t just about exploring and having fun – it was about connecting with each other and with history."
They explored the nearby vineyards of the Wachau region, savoring award-winning riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Excursions extended to the cultural gems of Vienna and Salzburg, adding a deeper level of cultural experience to their adventure.
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Living, cooking, traveling, and laughing together, even just for a week, reminded all of us of our shared history and traditions and gave us hope and energy to face a future united despite everything that may distract and divide us.
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But the real magic was found within the castle walls. From childhood memories resurfacing around Grandmother’s kitchen, to impromptu talent shows in the grand hall, every corner whispered tales of past and present.
"It was a reminder," Willcox reflected, "that at its heart,
‘We were after the castle life, and we got it.’
it’s these shared moments, these activities together, that truly make up a family."
inheriting. We were after the castle life, and we got it.
In a world of hustle and distractions, their castle adventure was a reflective experience, a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things – a shared meal, laughter around a cozy fireplace, and the feeling of belonging that a truly special place can evoke – are the most valuable treasures. And the ancient castle, as silent witness, held within its walls the echoing laughter of one family’s unforgettable journey.
## Living Like Royalty: A Family’s Unique Castle Adventure in Austria
**World Today News Exclusive Interview**
**Imagine:** Trading your everyday life for a chance to live like European royalty.That’s exactly what the Smith family did when they decided to spend a month residing in a centuries-old castle in the Austrian Alps. World Today News sat down with Mrs. Eleanor Smith to discuss their unforgettable experience.
**World Today News (WTN):** Mrs. Smith, thank you for joining us today. Can you describe your initial reaction to the idea of living in a castle?
**Mrs. Smith:** Honestly, it felt like something out of a fairytale! We were initially hesitant, worrying about the logistics and weather it would truly be a comfortable experience for our family, but the allure of living in such a historic place was irresistible.
**WTN:** What was it like stepping into the castle for the first time?
**mrs. Smith:** Breathtaking. The sheer scale of the castle was impressive, with its towering walls, intricate stonework, and sprawling gardens. The air had a distinct sense of history, a whispered echo of the lives that had passed thru those halls centuries ago.
**WTN:** Did the castle feel like a home away from home?
**Mrs. Smith:** Surprisingly, yes.While undeniably grand, the castle felt surprisingly cozy. The thick stone walls kept us warm despite the alpine chill, and the large fireplaces in the main hall created a welcoming atmosphere. The staff was incredibly helpful and amiable, making us feel like cherished guests rather than temporary residents.
**WTN:** What were some of the highlights of your stay?
**Mrs. Smith:** Oh, ther were so many! Exploring the secret passages hidden within the castle walls was a thrill for the children, and discovering ancient artifacts tucked away in forgotten corners felt like uncovering buried treasure. We also enjoyed daily walks through the surrounding forests, breathing in the crisp mountain air and marveling at the stunning views.
**WTN:** Did you encounter any unexpected challenges while living in a castle?
**Mrs. Smith:** Well, navigating the winding staircases with suitcases was an adventure, to say the least! The lack of modern technology, like wifi, took some getting used to, but it actually forced us to unplug and enjoy quality time together as a family.
**WTN:** What would you say was the most valuable lesson you learned from this unique experience?
**Mrs. Smith:** It was a powerful reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in experiences, connections, and the stories we create along the way.
**WTN:** Would you recommend this type of vacation to others?
**Mrs. Smith:** Absolutely! It’s not for everyone, but for families seeking an adventure off the beaten path, a chance to step back in time, and create lasting memories, living in a castle is an experience like no other.
**WTN:** Mrs. Smith, thank you for sharing your story with us. It sounds like your family had a truly magical time.
**Mrs. Smith:** It was an unforgettable experience. We’re forever grateful for the opportunity to have lived like royalty, even if only for a short time.
