Karnity Castle

On the shore of Lake Kocioł, in the wooded Iława Lake District, stands a building that looks like a medieval castle, though it was built in the age of the railway. Karnity Castle is a neo-Gothic palace from 1856, erected on the site of a manor house that burned down in the 17th century. Since the 1990s it has been a year-round hotel, while red-brick towers, battlements and an old park recall the history of the estate.

History: from a Teutonic farm to a hotel

Karnity appears in records as early as the 14th century, in a charter for the neighbouring village of Bożęcin. After the Thirteen Years' War, in 1470, the Teutonic Order granted the estate to the mercenary commander Hans von Schönaich, whose family held it for about 300 years. The manor house burned down around 1635 during the wars of the 17th century. In 1815 the estate was bought by Baron von Albedyll, and by the early 20th century it covered almost 2,300 hectares. After the First World War it passed to the von Günther family.

The present palace was built in 1856. After the Second World War it served as a holiday centre, and since 1995 it has belonged to a private company that runs it as a hotel.

What to see

The palace is built of red brick on a stone base and faced with clinker. Two towers enliven its outline: an octagonal corner tower facing the drive and a square tower facing the lake. The main entrance leads through an arcaded porch with a rib vault, topped by a terrace whose balustrade carries a neo-Gothic quatrefoil pattern. Mock battlements crown every facade, and pinnacles mark the corners. Inside, original joinery, a fireplace and beamed ceilings survive in the state rooms.

Did you know?

• The former riding hall has become a ballroom with an open, richly carved roof truss.
• The wine bar occupies a former ice house.
• On a hill in the southern part of the park lies the cemetery of the former owners.

Tripto tip

This is a private hotel (Karnity 10, Miłomłyn municipality), not a museum. If you only want to see the palace from outside or walk in the park, ask the reception beforehand whether that is possible. The easiest way to experience the place is to stay overnight or book a meal in the restaurant. Nearby, don't miss the boat lifts (inclined planes) of the Elbląg Canal, as well as Ostróda and Miłomłyn.