Neuschwanstein is the best-known castle in the world, a riot of towers and turrets in an incredibly romantic location and has provided the inspiration for countless toy models, book illustrations and film sets.

Set amidst magnificent mountain scenery on the shores of the Schwansee (Swan Lake), this fairy-tale castle was built in 1869-86 for the eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II, to a design by the theatre designer Christian Jank.

When deciding to build this imposing residence, the king was undoubtedly inspired by the sight of Wartburg Castle in Thuringia which he visited in 1867. The pale grey grantite castle, which draws on a variety of historical styles, is a steep 20-minute walk from the nearby village of Hohenschwangau and offers spectacular views of the sourrounding scenery.

The main attractions in the castle building are the Singing room and the Throne room.