Beer lovers, have you ever dreamed of swimming in your favorite beverage? Well, at Starkenberg Castle in Austria, that dream isn’t just a fantasy. It’s a real-life experience, you can swim in beer! Nestled in the stunning Tyrolean Alps, this 700-year-old castle is home to a historic brewery. It also boasts something truly unique: seven beer-filled pools where visitors can take a literal beer bath.
The World’s Only Beer Swimming Pools
Starkenberg Brewery has been crafting beer for over 200 years, but in 2005, they decided to take their beer obsession to a whole new level. When the fermentation cellar was no longer needed due to modern brewing methods, they transformed it into a beer spa. The result? Seven 13-foot pools filled with warm beer (diluted slightly with water) that guests can soak in while sipping on an ice-cold brew.
Why Bathe in Beer?
Beyond the sheer novelty, beer baths are believed to have some skin benefits. The beer is rich in vitamins and calcium, and some say it helps with circulation, psoriasis, and even healing wounds. While science may still be out on that, one thing is certain—lounging in a warm beer bath with a frosty pint in hand is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What to Expect at Starkenberg Castle
Even if beer bathing isn’t your thing, the castle offers plenty to enjoy. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic brewery, learn about beer’s rich history through trivia games, and indulge in traditional Tyrolean food at the castle’s restaurant. And, of course, there’s plenty of beer to drink—served in a glass, not a pool.
How Much Does It Cost?
A session in one of Starkenberg’s beer pools will set you back around $300, but for beer enthusiasts, it’s an experience worth raising a glass to. Just remember: drinking from the pool is not advised (no matter how tempting it may seem).
Is It Still Open?
Before COVID-19, beer lovers flocked to Starkenberg Castle for this unique attraction. However, it’s unclear if the beer pools have fully reopened to the public. Even if you can’t take a dip, the castle remains a must-visit destination for its rich history, scenic beauty, and, of course, its fantastic beer.
So, if you find yourself in Austria and want to swim in beer (literally), put Starkenberg Castle on your travel list. Prost!