Two Finnish friends have provided a captivating insight into their month-long experience residing in a medieval castle in Austria. Alexandra Wegelius and Elsa Saario, both 25 years old, shared their remarkable adventure at Burg Finstergrün, a historic castle built in 1296, through their popular TikTok account, @bratsonvacation. Their posts have attracted significant attention, particularly a humorous video showcasing the challenges of navigating the castle’s intricate hallways, which has garnered over 18 million views.
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Wegelius and Saario discovered Burg Finstergrün through Workaway, a platform that connects travellers with opportunities for cultural exchange and volunteering. The moment they laid eyes on the listing, they were determined to spend their summer in the castle. They explained to PEOPLE that their choice was almost instinctive: “The minute we saw it, we knew this was where we wanted to be.”
During their time at the castle in May, the pair primarily handled food service for guests and assisted with various property projects, including gardening tasks such as planting flowers. Burg Finstergrün allows visitors to either explore the site for a day or stay overnight, making it a popular attraction for those seeking a taste of medieval life.
Describing their initial days in the castle, Wegelius and Saario recalled the quietness of the vast space before guests began to arrive. “There were a few nights when it was just the two of us and two other staff members,” they recounted. “It felt like we had truly moved into a countryside castle.” The sheer size and labyrinthine layout of the castle led them to adventure through its many corridors, both by accident and for exploration’s sake. “The first day, we deliberately got lost just to see where we would end up,” they said. The castle’s numerous staircases and hidden doors created an enchanting, maze-like atmosphere.
When not engaged in their work shifts, the friends made the most of their free time by exploring the surrounding region and indulging in activities such as hiking and reading in the castle’s courtyard. They also seized the opportunity to visit nearby cities, including Salzburg, and bond with fellow travellers participating in Workaway.
Curiously, when asked about encounters with ghosts in the castle, Wegelius and Saario found the atmosphere surprisingly non-haunted. “It is a bit eerie walking alone around the castle at midnight, but we didn’t actually see any ghosts,” they admitted. This twist added to the romantic allure of their medieval dwelling.
Reflecting on their experience, both friends expressed a desire to return to the castle for another stint, emphasising the rewarding connections they made throughout their stay. “There are many insights we will carry with us, but foremost is the people we met,” they noted. The diversity of fellow travellers and the locals brought new perspectives that enriched their adventure.
Wegelius and Saario’s journey serves as a reminder of the unique opportunities available through platforms like Workaway, which allow individuals to immerse themselves in different cultures and share memorable experiences. Their story has struck a chord with many, highlighting the beauty of exploration and the friendships formed along the way.
The duo’s adventure at Burg Finstergrün plants the idea that perhaps there’s more to be found in historic places than just relics of the past; they offer a chance for personal growth and connection. With their viral TikTok account capturing the hearts of viewers, Alexandra Wegelius and Elsa Saario continue to inspire others to seek out their own unique travel experiences.