The mighty Heinfels Castle (Burg Heinfels) is located in the Upper Val Pusteria at 1,130 m a.s.l. In 1243, the castle and Knight Otto von Heunvels were first mentioned in a document but it is expected that the castle is much older. Until the 16th century, it was known as "Huonenfels", because its origins are presumed to date back to the Huns in the 5th century AD. But presumably it were the Avars who built the castle complex in East Tyrol.

The castle is conveniently located and offers a beautiful panoramic view until the Gailtal valley. Due to its position, Heinfels Castle is visible from afar, one reason why it is called "Queen of the Val Pusteria". Through the centuries, it had numerous owners - in the 16th century, the area was known as ideal for the chamois and lynx hunt. In 1613, a fire destroyed big parts of the castle.

After years of planning works and renovation, Heinfels was reopened to the public in 2020: It includes a museum of 1,000 sqm, a shop, and a castle tavern. 38 arrow slits and so-called storm piles, which prevented that the walls could have been climbed up at the outside, characterize the castle still today. It can be reached on several paths, already the gorgeous view is worth the ascent!