Retzhof Castle

For more than 70 years, the Retzhof Castle Educational Center has been an integral part of Austrian adult education and a vibrant meeting place for education and culture. As a member of ARGE Bildungshäuser Österreich (ARGE BHÖ), we create an inspiring setting for regional projects. Located near the Slovenian border in Southern Styria, we are also a sought-after location for cross-border and international collaborations. Whether for seminars, conferences, cultural events, or an overnight stay – Retzhof Castle offers diverse opportunities for learning, celebrating, and lingering. Our slogan “Transforming through learning” stands for exactly that: for transformation and personal development, which we enable for you in this special place.

Transforming
through
learning

Engraving of Retzhof Castle from 1830.

History

In the heart of the Southern Styrian wine region, near the ancient Roman city of Flavia Solva, lies Retzhof Castle, a former noble residence. The medieval estate, named by the “Retzer” family in the 15th century, was converted into a country castle during the transition from the Middle Ages to the modern era. The Salzburg feudal lordship in the Leibnitz area ended in the late 16th century. Bishop Martin Brenner subsequently expanded Retzhof into his retirement residence around 1595, giving it its present basic architectural form. Numerous Austrian noble families owned Retzhof. Under the Trauttmansdorff and Herberstein families in the 18th century, the classical facade, the staircase, and the baroque castle chapel were designed. Since 1948, Retzhof Castle has been an educational center of the Province of Styria.

Mission

Our mission is to facilitate education and create a place where knowledge transfer, encounters, and hospitality come together. We align ourselves with the lifelong learning strategy of the Province of Styria and continuously develop our offerings. Openness, inclusion, and mutual respect characterize our interactions.

As an educational and event center, we combine learning, culture, and hospitality. In addition to our diverse seminar and event offerings, we provide the perfect setting for conferences, company celebrations, and events. Day guests are also warmly welcome in our castle tavern. With our “Green Cuisine,” we focus on fresh, regional, and seasonal dishes.

Retzhof Castle is a versatile event location, ideal for corporate events, seminars, and cultural events. With flexible spaces and innovative infrastructure, we create the perfect setting for every occasion.

The Retzhof Team

Good ideas only unfold their full potential when they are brought to life. That is precisely the task of the Retzhof team: with motivation, clear roles, and an honest feedback culture, everyone pulls together – respectful in their interactions and with joy in their collaborative work. You will feel this attitude as a guest in every detail of your stay: everyone on the team is committed to not just meeting, but exceeding your expectations. Would you like to book with us or plan an event? Please feel free to contact us – our team will advise you personally and forward your inquiry directly to the right contact person.

Quality

Responsible environmental stewardship is a matter of course for us. As a holder of the Austrian Ecolabel for educational institutions, we commit to high ecological and social standards, from the selection of our food to the conscious use of resources.

Our Green Cuisine focuses on fresh, regional, and seasonal ingredients. “Education is mindful interaction with the environment and with oneself.” This idea guides us in everything we do.

More information about the Austrian Ecolabel can be found at www.umweltzeichen.at.