Exhibitions
Aristocratic Life Around 1900
In recent years, the former stately rooms on the first floor have been carefully restored. Among them, a bathroom from 1904 commissioned by the castle’s then-owner, Helene Harrach. The “Chambre d’honneur” is also accessible – a guest room reserved for distinguished visitors; likewise, a smaller servant’s room intended for accompanying staff. In an open space outside these rooms, a billiard table stands as a reminder of the pastimes once enjoyed here. The presentation offers a glimpse into the life of the Count’s family, who spent their summers at Lake Thun until the 1920s. Our visitors are welcome to use the billiard table during opening hours! Permanent Exhibition on the 1st Floor.
Always at your service – In the kitchen
This extension to the permanent exhibition “Always at your service” reveals the servants’ workplace and kitchen life at the turn of the 20th century. During the counts’ tenure, the kitchen catered for many distinguished guests as well as providing daily meals for the family and their servants. In an engaging manner, the exhibition communicates the kitchen world and shows how food was prepared at that time. Ida, a maid whose job included fetching coal for the cooker, also has her say. The staging of the castle kitchen ensures first-hand experiences and that surprising moments arise. Various kitchen utensils are to be discovered, and are sure to evoke nostalgia for the past.
The World of Children
In a room once used as a servant's quarters, a window opens up to the world of the children who lived in the castle from the mid-19th century until the early 1920s. Unfortunately, their toys haven’t been preserved. Our collection of toys, however, illustrates what they likely played with, while also capturing a slice of cultural history.
Oriental Fascination
In the 19th century, Western fascination with the Orient influenced the castle owner, Albert Count de Pourtalès, leading to the construction of a Smoking Room at the top of the keep. The exhibits shown in the former count’s library on the 4th floor should encourage reflection on the perception of the Orient and the concept of Orientalism.
OPENING HOURS 2026 – CASTLE MUSEUM
10th May – 1st November 2026
Tuesday – Sunday | 11 am – 5 pm
(Monday closed)
Holidays: Whit Monday open
CONTACT
Stiftung Schloss Oberhofen
Postfach 22
CH-3653 Oberhofen
Tel. +41 33 243 12 35 | info@schlossoberhofen.ch
Office opening hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 9 – 12 am
Impressions
