Fairytale Stays: European Castles Transformed into Luxury Hotels

A journey through time, amidst history, luxury, and wellness, discovering Europe’s most fascinating noble residences, now exclusive destinations for unforgettable vacations

Europe, with its rich historical heritage, offers the unique opportunity to stay in authentic castles, testaments to past eras, now transformed into luxury hotels and resorts. These structures, immersed in breathtaking landscapes, combine ancient charm with modern comforts, offering unforgettable experiences of wellness and quality.

Ireland: Where Myth Becomes Reality

• Ashford Castle, County Mayo:
  • Located on the shores of Lough Corrib, this 13th-century castle is an icon of Irish hospitality. It offers luxurious rooms and suites, gourmet restaurants, a wellness center, outdoor activities such as falconry and fishing, and even a private cinema.
  • Its history, rich in anecdotes and legends, adds a touch of magic to the experience.

Scotland: Among Heaths and Enchanted Lakes

• Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire:
  • This Victorian castle, immersed in an immense estate with exotic gardens, offers an exclusive stay experience. The suites, furnished with period furniture, offer spectacular views of the sea and the Isle of Ailsa Craig.
  • The castle has a Michelin-starred restaurant, a wellness center, and offers activities such as clay pigeon shooting and salmon fishing.
• Dalhousie Castle, Midlothian:
  • This is a 13th-century castle, one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland. It is located in a beautiful park. The structure offers exclusive services, such as falconry, and also houses a wellness center.

France: The Elegance of the Loire Valley Castles

• Château de Pray, Loire Valley:
  • This Renaissance castle, overlooking the Loire, offers a romantic and refined atmosphere. The rooms and suites, tastefully furnished, preserve original elements such as stone fireplaces and exposed beams.
  • The castle’s restaurant offers high-quality French cuisine, accompanied by a selection of local wines.
• Château de Chissay, Chissay-en-Touraine:
  • This castle allows its guests to sleep in a building rich in history, but with all the modern comforts. In its rooms you can see period furnishings, large stone fireplaces, and all those typical characteristics of a castle.

Germany: Medieval Suggestions in the Rhine Valley

• Schönburg Castle, Oberwesel:
  • Perched on a hill overlooking the Rhine, this medieval castle offers spectacular panoramic views. The rooms, furnished in a rustic-chic style, create a welcoming and romantic atmosphere.
  • The castle’s restaurant serves German cuisine, accompanied by a selection of regional wines.

Spain: The Charm of the “Paradores”

• Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo, Ciudad Rodrigo:
  • Located in a 14th-century castle, this “parador” (Spanish luxury hotel) offers an authentic experience in the heart of medieval Spain. The rooms, furnished with period furniture, preserve the original charm of the castle.
  • The parador’s restaurant serves traditional Spanish cuisine, with a modern twist.
• Castillo de Enrique II de Trastamara, Spain:
  • This 14th century castle is one of the oldest buildings in the autonomous community of Castilla y León. The castle has been completely restored, and inside there is a very luxurious hotel.

Italy: Historic Residences of Unequalled Beauty

• Castello di Limatola, Limatola (Campania):
  • This castle of Norman origin, has been finely restored. Inside there is a hotel, a restaurant and a museum. Furthermore this castle is a very popular location for weddings and events.
• Castello Bevilacqua, Bevilacqua (Veneto):
  • This is a 14th-century castle. Inside there is a restaurant, and events are organized, often weddings, but also work events.

Useful tips for your castle vacation:

• Book well in advance, especially if you are traveling in high season.
• Check the services offered by the castle, such as restaurants, wellness centers, and activities.
• Find out about the history of the castle and its surroundings, to enrich your experience.
• Always check online reviews, to get an idea of what awaits you.