Owners of German castle offer to swap property for Melbourne apartment

The owners of a German castle have offered to swap their sprawling property for an apartment in Melbourne, Australia.

Lord James Richard Welsh and his wife, Ingrid Straub-Zerfowski, are hoping to swap the Schochwitz castle for a simple home in the world's most liveable city.

The 4,000 square meter property contains 28 bedrooms and sits next to a lake in the wine growing region of northern Germany.

The residence is a two-hour drive from Berlin and half an hour from Leipzig.

"My wife and I bought the castle about 12 years ago and have appreciated our time here in Germany and at this wonderful place," Welsh, who is from Britain, told News Limited on Monday.

"However, we are looking to retire and have family in Melbourne so that's why we are interested in a trade."

He said that he would rather trade the property than sell it due to the taxes associated with selling a house in Germany.

The Melburnian who decides to make the trade will adopt the title of "Lord" with it being associated with the property.

Welsh said he and his wife were looking "for the right person or situation to make a trade."

"We are hoping to find someone who has a nice apartment or house for a similar value. We would prefer three to four bedrooms but can flexible," he said.

"We are also open to something out of the city if there are people interested in our offer."

The castle was built in the 12th century and has been meticulously restored and maintained by the couple who have operated a hotel and therapy center from the property. Endit