Many South Moravian visitors know Laa an der Thaya for its thermal spa. Right in town, however, stands a medieval castle with the distinctive Butterfassturm tower, making it easy to add a compact dose of history to a wellness day.
Verified facts
- According to the town’s official website, the origins of Laa Castle date to the thirteenth century.
- One of the complex’s most distinctive features is the Butterfassturm; the viewing platform is roughly 26 metres above ground.
- The town acquired the castle in 2007 and restoration work followed in subsequent years.
- The southern wing also houses a beer museum; its visitor regime should be checked separately.
Why visit
The page makes sense because Laa is already a familiar cross-border destination for thermal baths. Instead of repeating generic spa content, it reveals another layer of the town: medieval history, a tower view and a compact historic centre.
For guests who like to mix relaxation with sightseeing, the castle is an easy stop before or after the spa. It also works as a short Austrian trip in its own right.
How to plan your visit
Opening arrangements for the castle grounds, tower and beer museum may not be identical. Check each element on the town website before travelling. The tower involves stairs and the normal limitations of a historic structure.
Practical Terasy Sedlec tip
Terasy Sedlec is a convenient base between Mikulov, Valtice, Lednice and the Austrian border. For this trip, it is usually better to combine two or three geographically close places than to spend the day driving between distant attractions. Check current access and navigation before leaving; in protected areas, also check the latest rules and restrictions.
Who is this trip for?
Couples, families with older children, history enthusiasts, Therme Laa visitors and guests looking for an easy Austrian day trip.
What to combine on the same day
Therme Laa, Laa’s town centre, NONSEUM in Herrnbaumgarten or Galgenberg depending on your onward route.
Frequently asked questions
Is the castle in the town centre?
Yes. Burg Laa is part of Laa an der Thaya and combines easily with a walk through the centre.
Can I climb the tower?
The Butterfassturm has a viewing platform; always check current access and opening hours before travelling.
Is there one ticket for every part?
Not necessarily. The castle area, tower, events and beer museum may operate under different arrangements.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, particularly for children who enjoy castles and towers. Normal supervision is needed on the stairs.
How much time should I allow?
Allow roughly one to two hours for the castle and tower; naturally longer if you also explore the town or visit the spa.
What can I combine with the castle?
Therme Laa, a short walk through town or a trip to Herrnbaumgarten.
Stay at Terasy Sedlec
One trip is rarely enough. Turn South Moravia into a multi-day stay.
From Terasy Sedlec you can head in a different direction every day: Pálava, the Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape, wine villages or the Austrian Weinviertel. Instead of changing hotels, keep one peaceful base and build a different itinerary each day.
Explore the region without rushing.
Plan two, three or more days and mix the famous sights with smaller places that give the region its character.
Official sources
- https://www.laa.at/Willkommen_in_der_Burg_Laa_2
- https://www.laa.at/system/web/sonderseite.aspx?detailonr=226418449&menuonr=226418449
Facts verified: 2026-09-17.