luxury properties for sale North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

In Barntrup in Lippe, in the middle of the charming cultural landscape along the Weser Renaissance Road, rises the Alverdissen Castle - an impressive testimony to Westphalian history and architecture. Built in its present form around 1662 under Friedrich Christian zu Lippe-Alverdissen on the preserved foundations and vaults of an earlier castle complex, the three-storey baroque ensemble with its crippled hipped roof and striking stair tower is one of the most important aristocratic residences in the region. After centuries of use as a residence, official residence, local court and, most recently, state archive of the county of North Rhine-Westphalia, the listed castle was extensively renovated in 2010 and converted into a versatile residential and commercial building. The measures carried out combined the historical substance of the building with a contemporary usage concept - carefully, stylishly and with a high standard of substance and atmosphere. With over 800 m² of living space spread over three floors, the Alverdissen Castle offers exceptional usage options for private, representative or commercial purposes. The expressive west wing features a spacious baroque hall on the first floor, which is currently used as a registry office, but is also suitable for events, exhibitions or office use. Directly in front of it is an inviting reception area, which serves as an anteroom or waiting area, complemented by a generously equipped kitchen, which is ideal for catering or event-related uses. The east wing has separate offices on the same level with their own access - ideal for independent commercial use, practice rooms or a creative studio. The clear functional structure of both wings creates optimal conditions for the interplay of living, working and representation in a historical setting with contemporary comfort. The second floor is the main living area. The eastern bedroom section with two bedrooms and adjoining bathroom offers privacy and tranquillity, while the west wing features a living room with more than 100 m², a fireplace and a spacious kitchen with adjoining dining area. The generous dimensions continue on the top floor: two separate bedroom wings, each with its own bathroom, offer ideal conditions for guests or additional family members. All levels are easily accessible via a central, restored sandstone staircase and a built-in passenger elevator. An extension of the structural facilities (e.g. guest house, swimming pool or additional garages) is possible in accordance with the approved planning and can be activated. The history of the Alverdissen Castle dates back to 1396, when a castle belonging to the Counts of Sternberg was first mentioned in a document as the county seat. After the destruction of the original building, the present castle was built around 1662 by Count Philipp zur Lippe - later Count of Schaumburg-Lippe - on the preserved cellar vaults and foundation walls of an earlier castle complex. His son Friedrich Christian laid the foundation stone for today's castle building in 1662 while he was still a child. From then on, the baroque building with its striking stair tower became an important manor house in the region. With Philipp Ernst I, a collateral line of the House of Lippe established itself in Alverdissen and resided there until the 18th century. In 1812, the castle was acquired by Princess Pauline zu Lippe, who designated it as the administrative seat for the Sternberg district. From 1879 to 1969, the castle housed the district court. Between 1977 and 1979, the castle underwent a thorough modernization, after which it was used for many years as a branch of the Detmold State Archives. It was not until 2009 - after extensive renovation work - that the castle passed into private ownership and has since been used as a residential and commercial building.

This extraordinary estate unites architectural clarity, absolute privacy, and one of the most coveted panoramic settings in the Rhine Valley. Perched in a privileged hillside position above Bad Honnef-Rhöndorf, the property commands sweeping, unobstructed views across the Rhine, set within a park-like estate of exceptional scale and refinement. The arrival experience is nothing short of cinematic. A private driveway leads to an elegant, subtly illuminated 40-meter entrance tunnel with integrated elevator access, revealing the residence in a manner both discreet and impressive. The main house, guest residence, and garage ensemble are harmoniously embedded into the landscape, forming a secluded retreat of rare tranquility and distinction. The main residence is defined by its clean, timeless architecture and a generous spatial concept with fluid transitions. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing in the principal living and dining areas opens toward the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior. The split-level design introduces compelling sightlines while ensuring a refined separation between representative living areas and private retreats. A highlight of exceptional caliber is the exclusive wellness sanctuary: a spacious indoor swimming pool, sauna, relaxation lounge, and private gym combine to create a personal spa experience at the highest level. Designed as a retreat for restoration and well-being, this area embodies understated luxury and comfort. Multiple sun terraces across various levels provide magnificent vantage points over the Rhine Valley, offering captivating views throughout the day and into the evening hours. The separate guest house offers complete autonomy and versatility. Whether for distinguished guests, family members, or as an executive home office, it mirrors the estate’s sense of privacy and features equally breathtaking panoramic views. Generous garage accommodations for four large vehicles, complemented by additional outdoor parking spaces, further enhance the functionality and exclusivity of the property.