Steeped in history, the castle was built as a tranquil mountain retreat for the eccentric and extravagant King Ludwig II of Bavaria. After his death in 1886, its doors were finally opened to the public. It now takes pride of place in what is locally known as 'Castle Country', undoubtedly winning the prize as Ludwig's most magnificent creation.

The castle is based on medieval legends, was designed to resemble an authentic German knight's castle and is rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Disney Castle logo. The imaginative 'grotto' is particularly worth a visit, mimicking the style of a dripstone cave.

It is also worth taking time to explore the surrounding area with its gushing waterfalls, limestone gorges and mountain trails. If you're feeling a little less energetic, you can sit back, relax and let a horse-drawn carriage take you on a tour of one of Germany's most scenic spots.

For maximum dramatic effect, take the 30-minute walk to the castle from the village of Hohenschwangau, but make sure you buy your tickets before you set off (from the Hohenschwangau Ticket Center at no 12 Alpseestrasse) as this is the last chance you get and there is no ticket desk at the castle itself.