The park, like the castle, was conceived and shaped by its owners. Around 1850, the aristocratic Pourtalès family began the transformation of the former tree garden, which they partitioned: on the one hand, an inner castle area with geometric flower parterres, on the other, a park with paths, lawns and formations of trees. Its outlook today is shaped by the conifers, deciduous trees and four exotic redwoods.
The outstanding walkway, made from hornbeam, evokes romantic emotions and provides shade in the summer. Both the Swiss cross and the conifers by the shore date back to William Maul Measey, the last person to own the castle.
A beautiful park needs a lot of care and in this one there are buildings related to the garden. Of note is the house of gardener dating from 1855–56 and the orangery, in use since 1862. The children’s chalet from 1853 was made for the count’s children, as indicated by the inscription on the south facade.
The landscaped park of Oberhofen Castle is an unrivalled paradise that invites you to linger and appreciate it. For children, there’s a play area on the gravel court near the pergola surrounded by linden trees.
Link to Gartentexte by Sarah Fasolin (Swiss garden guide – in German)
1st March – 30st March 9 am – 5 pm
From 31st March: see Castle park opening hours
31st March – 25th May9 am – 8 pm
26th May – 27th July 9 am – 9 pm
28st July – 14th September 9 am – 8 pm
15th September – 26th October 9 am – 7 pm
27th October – 14th December 9 am – 5 pm
Free access to the park
Photo shoots in the castle park are subject to a fee an require authorisation.
Dogs are not allowed in the castle or the park, with the exception of guide dogs, though they are welcome in the restaurant.