Search results for:

The very pretty Chateau de Maraval is where 15th-century design meets 21st and somehow they get along quite nicely. Its unashamedly contemporary interior design is so well done it doesn’t seem at all incongruous on a five centuries-old canvas. The chateau is a boutique hotel but with only four rooms (book as quickly as you can!), very friendly hosts, and a down-to-earth atmosphere, it feels more like a gathering place for long-lost friends. The breakfast here is a great feast and is served up until noon, later on, you can enjoy complimentary homemade cakes and snacks, coffee and tea, etc. The owners sometimes organize evening dinners for the guests too… > See All the Details & Book

Fairytale setting: 14th-century Franconian castle perched above the town of Colmberg in northern Bavaria. Scenic routes: Located directly on both the Romantic Road and the Castle Road. Nearby gems: Close to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the Franconian capital Ansbach. Historic charm: Castle origins from 1318, with a cosy, atmospheric feel and friendly staff. Hearty dining: Traditional Franconian and Bavarian dishes served in a medieval-style restaurant. Check dates & prices here   This fairytale-like 14th century, Franconian-era, German Castle Hotel sits on a hill above the pretty town of the same name in northern Bavaria. Burg Colmberg forms a picturesque part of two of the most scenic, and romantic, routes… > See All the Details & Book

Why we chose this castle hotel: Boutique castle hotel: Early Norman-era fortress transformed into a stylish luxury B&B in Pembrokeshire. Modern interiors: Contemporary chic décor inside, while retaining castle character with medieval features. Six sleek rooms: Minimalist design, super king or king beds, plush bathrooms with Philippe Starck fixtures. Relaxed facilities: Court Room lounge, sunroom views, honesty bar, hearty breakfasts, and sister hotel dining. Rich history: Built in the 12th century, linked to Lucy Walter and Charles II, restored and reopened as a hotel in 2013 Check dates & prices here   Roch Castle is an early Norman-era castle turned luxury B&B hotel with a lovely hilltop setting overlooking St…. > See All the Details & Book

Château La Breteche is a rustic French chateau for rent near Orléans and the Loire Valley. It is a spacious and elegant five-bedroom property that can sleep up to fourteen guests comfortably and though fully renovated internally it retains an alluring sense of the past. The setting is idyllic and deeply rural; the chateau is hidden away between the woods and the meandering River Cosson and you don’t have to stray too far to find yourself immersed in the peace and tranquility of nature. The Rooms: There are five bedrooms at the chateau, five bathrooms, two large living rooms/dining rooms with satellite TV and a piano, a fully equipped kitchen,… > See All the Details & Book

Tucked away beyond Kilchoan on the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Mingary Castle Hotel is far removed from anywhere you might casually pass through. It’s this gorgeously isolated setting and the commanding Atlantic views that made it on to our favourites list. It’s a 13th-century stronghold that spent much of its later life in ruin before a careful two-year restoration brought its nine-foot-thick defensive walls and Georgian-era additions back into use. It’s a rare example of a true castle hotel in Scotland where authenticity hasn’t been diluted. Accommodation is deliberately limited, with just four suites and a west-wing apartment, all styled in light, subdued tones with four-poster beds and particularly spacious bathrooms…. > See All the Details & Book

Château de Mathod, near Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland, is a very charming and special place. A recognized historical monument, it was once the home of the Swiss artist Louis Rivier and has been in the same family for seven generations now. They have a luxury B&B guest suite at the chateau which is beautifully renovated and decorated, and though having all modern comforts still retains a tangible sense of history. The property also has some beautifully landscaped gardens, including a swimming pool, which guests are welcome to explore and enjoy. The Accommodation: The chateau is the private home of your hosts but they also rent a single 30 m² (320 square foot)… > See All the Details & Book

Historic fortress – 15th-century Castello Aragonese on Ischia, stunning Gulf of Naples views. Unique hotel – Albergo Il Monastero, former convent; simple, clean rooms with patios. Romantic setting – Terrace, gardens, small vineyard, plus swimming/snorkeling access. Dining & service – On-site restaurant with organic produce and estate wines; friendly staff. Adults-only – No children or pets. Prime location – Ischia Ponte village, beaches, hiking trails, Mount Epomeo. Most Notable Former Guests: Michelangelo, Vittoria Colonna, Ludovico Ariosto … The inspiration behind House Greyjoy of Pyke from Game of Thrones, Ischia Island’s 15th century Castello Aragonese is a stunning hilltop fortress with equally stunning views over the Gulf of Naples. Within the… > See All the Details & Book

Why we chose this castle for rent: Romantic folly retreat: 19th-century Gothic tower hidden in Snowdonia, now a unique self-catering holiday stay. Charming interiors: Two cosy bedrooms, bright living spaces, and sweeping views from the top floor. Modern comforts: Kitchen, wood-burning stove, WiFi, TV, and a spacious roll-top bath. Prime location: Set in stunning countryside near mountains, coast, and picturesque Welsh villages. Rich heritage: Linked to Owain Gwynedd, built by industrialist Joseph Huddart in 1821, restored in the 1990s.   Brynkir Tower is a stunning, early 19th-century tower folly hidden away in the woods of Snowdonia National Park, Wales. This lovely building has been extensively renovated internally and now offers… > See All the Details & Book

Rustic charm – 900-year-old castle hotel in southern Chianti with authentic character. Accommodation variety – from simple rooms to luxury suites and self-catering farm apartments. Facilities – swimming pool carved from the moat, tennis courts, and traditional Tuscan restaurant. Scenic surroundings – vineyards, olive groves, woodland, and nearby Chianti villages to explore. Welcoming hosts – happy to arrange tours, excursions, and share local tips. Family & pet friendly – suitable for children and pets alike.   Castello di Tornano is a rustic, very charming, castle hotel in Chianti, Tuscany, with a history going back over nine hundred years. It has a broad selection of accommodation ranging from relatively basic rooms… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Victor Hugo, Charlie Chaplin, Coco Chanel… The 5-star Beau Rivage Palace sits on 10 acres of its own private gardens on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne, and has stunning views across the lake and of the French Alps beyond. The hotel itself, including its spacious and elegant rooms and suites, is equally stunning and the entire experience is one which will satisfy even the most discerning of luxury hotel aficionados. It has four restaurants to choose from, all of which are excellent quality but with one particularly stealing the show: the 2 Michelin-starred Anne-Sophie Pic at Beau-Rivage Palace. Add to that some chic bars and… > See All the Details & Book

There are plenty of castle hotels in Ireland that rely heavily on their heritage Castlemartyr Castle Resort gives it more than a nod, sure, but it mainly wowed us with the facilities of a genuinely first-rate luxury resort. The setting certainly helps too. The estate is in peaceful, rural East Cork, and the estate has 220 acres of gardens and woodland, and the ruins of the 800-year-old Castlemartyr Castle. While much of the accommodation is housed in newer wings, we’d be inclined to choose one of the rooms in the 18th-century manor house if budget allows. The Manor House Grand Suites in particular would be our favourite, having a character… > See All the Details & Book

On a 54-acre private estate that has seen more than eight centuries of Scottish history, Melville Castle Hotel is an authentic castle stay within easy reach of Edinburgh. The current castle dates to the late 18th century and has welcomed notable figures including Sir Walter Scott, Queen Victoria and King George IV. That heritage still lingers in the structure, but what stands out today are the confidently bold colours and patterns. Lots of good interior design work to be admired at Melville. Rooms are spread across a wide range, from singles to spacious suites that can accommodate families or small groups. Dining takes place in the vaulted cellar brasserie, where… > See All the Details & Book

Historic significance: Childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. Most notable guests: Queen Anne Boleyn, Queen Anne of Cleves. Accommodation: 28 B&B rooms in two Edwardian-era wings (Astor Wing & Anne Boleyn Wing). Exclusive access: Guests may explore the original 13th-century castle until midnight. Edwardian extensions: Built in 1903 by William Waldorf Astor in mock Tudor style, with dining and lounge areas. Interior style: Antique furniture, tapestries, and art pieces combined with modern comfort. Grounds: 125-acre castle grounds surrounding the moat.  Enter your dates & check prices here   Hever Castle Hotel near London, in the Garden County of Kent, was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry… > See All the Details & Book

Dating back to the late 1600s, this 17th-century castle sits within 14 acres of gardens and woodland along the River Calder, outside Glasgow. The atmosphere at Crossbasket ls quietly opulent. Antique furnishings, ornate detailing and period architecture meet modern comforts. Accommodation is varied, from intimate double rooms in the castle to larger suites and private lodges set within the grounds. Dining at Trocadero’s is an event, whether you’re staying at the hotel or not. Overseen by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, it sets French culinary techniques onto fresh Scottish produce in a classy but welcoming dining hall. The estate itself encourages exploration, with river walks, woodland trails and access to fishing,… > See All the Details & Book

A former 12th-century Knights Templar castle, Château Saint Martin is now a magnificent, 5-star luxury hotel retreat set high in the hills above Saint Paul de Vence and the French Riviera. It has magnificent views, spacious, comfortable rooms and suites, over 30 acres of beautifully tended gardens which include a swimming pool and tennis courts. It can also boast a Michelin Star Restaurant, opulent spa facilities, and a dedicated staff team that is really second to none. To top it all Château Saint Martin also has an amazing array of art adorning its walls, art which includes works by such iconic figures as Picasso, Matisse, Renoir, and Chagall. The Rooms:… > See All the Details & Book

Hilltop estate – overlooks 600 acres of vineyards with views of the Alps and Piedmont plains. Boutique luxury – stylish castle hotel with B&B rooms and self-catering apartments. Wine heritage – estate renowned for fine wines, with cellar visits and vineyard tours. Dining – restaurant serves modern takes on traditional North Italian cuisine with local ingredients. Outdoor amenities – castle gardens, swimming pool, and fishing lake. Family & pet friendly – welcoming to both children and pets.   Perched on a hilltop overlooking its 600 acre estate and vineyard Castello di Gabiano, near Casale Monferrato, Alessandria and Turin is an arresting sight at first glance. The views from the castle… > See All the Details & Book

Historic hilltop castle: Dating back nearly 1,000 years, overlooking the village of Elgersburg. Charming rooms: Cosy standard and deluxe options blending medieval character with modern comfort. Authentic dining: Traditional German cuisine served in a grand hall, plus house-brewed Elgersburger Beer. Guided castle tours: Learn the rich history dating back to the 12th century. Scenic location: At the edge of the Thuringian Forest, with Goethe connections and Weimar nearby. Most Notable Former Guest: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Check dates & prices here.   Near Weimar and Leipzig, Germany is the beautifully atmospheric Elgersburg Castle. It has a history going back to at least the 12th century, is one of Thuringia’s best-preserved… > See All the Details & Book

Exclusive retreat – medieval castle hotel, and restored hamlet available entirely for guest stays. Scenic setting – classic Tuscan hilltop village surrounded by 1000 acres of forest. Authentic lodging – B&B rooms and self-catering apartments in village houses, historic yet comfortable. Medieval atmosphere – no TVs to preserve the historic charm. Guest facilities – swimming pool, top-class restaurant La Torre di Gargonza, and rustic bar café. Outdoor spaces – lemon gardens, woodland walks, and scenic resting spots.   Castello di Gargonza is a very unique place – a mixture of medieval castle and (once abandoned) hamlet between Arezzo and Siena that is now exclusively available, in its entirety, for guest… > See All the Details & Book

In Scotland’s Glenshee, where the Cairngorm foothills gather themselves into something more dramatic, Dalmunzie Castle Estate is very much part of the landscape. It is a 6,500-acre Highland estate of rivers, woodland and open countryside. The building is a Scots Baronial castle dating from the late 19th century, though the estate dates back to the 16th centure. These days Dalmunzie is small, atmospheric, boutique type hotel with just 17 rooms. We love that intimacy; it never feels like a staged heritage experience, more like staying in a private country mansion. Rooms vary from compact doubles to more spacious suites with sitting areas and fireplaces. Some rooms are cosy and simple,… > See All the Details & Book

Dromoland Castle has obvious grandeur, and a big reputation. It is in fact one of South West Ireland’s very best hotels. Location wise it’s convenient too, not far from Shannon Airport, Limerick City and close enough to the Cliffs of Moher for a day trip. There’s a lot of history here, tied to the O’Brien clan and going back around a thousand years, although the castle you see today is a 19th-century Gothic Revival building. The history isn’t overplayed, but it’s always there in the background. What also really stands out about Dromoland Castle is the space. The estate is a full 500 acres, you can fill whole days just… > See All the Details & Book

Just outside Edinburgh, Carberry Tower is set within 35 acres of gardens and woodland near Carberry Hill, where, in 1567, Mary, Queen of Scots was forced to abdicate. The building itself spans centuries, with origins stretching back to the 15th century and later Victorian and early 20th-century additions shaping the building we see today. Rooms range from singles to the ultra spacious Royal Suite. All are relatively modrn in style but with touches of heritage, like four poster beds and antique furniture pieces. Dining is centred on The Campaign Room, a highly rated bistro serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a stately, but fairly relaxed setting. We like their Champagne… > See All the Details & Book

Historic palace – 16th-century Residenza in central Rome, linked to Napoleon III’s family. Lavish suites – Napoleone Suite with four-poster bedroom, marble baths, lounge, and Rooftop Garden Suite with terrace and modern kitchen. Historic details – Frescoes, chandeliers, tapestries, and antiques blended with subtle modern amenities. Modern comforts – Air-con, WiFi, satellite TV, HiFi, and tech hidden to preserve the atmosphere. Service & perks – Butler, maid, concierge, organic breakfast, and welcome Chianti Classico. Prime location – Via del Corso, steps from Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Most Notable Former Guest: Emperor Napoleon III.   Of all Manor Castle’s historic hotel rooms or suites, the Napoleone Suite, at the 16th century… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Charles I & Zita, Last Emperors of Austria… The family & pet-friendly, Schloss Wartegg/Wartegg Castle Hotel has comfortable accommodation in a lovely setting by the shores of Lake Constance in Northeastern Switzerland. The castle dates back to 1558 and was the birthplace of Zita, the last Empress of Austria & Queen of Hungary, in the 19th century but was extensively renovated in the 1990s. The passage of time had resulted in quite a bit of structural damage and so much of the historical fabric was lost during the renovations. This means that the hotel, including the rooms, now looks quite modern internally, which is something of… > See All the Details & Book

Why we chose this castle hotel: Unique setting: Grade II listed French-style villa on Anglesey with 3 acres of gardens and a private beach. Historic charm: Built in 1849 inspired by Loire Valley châteaux with period features throughout. Elegant accommodations: 22 rooms and suites inside the château plus lodge suites on the grounds. On-site activities: Restaurants, bars, sauna, hot tub, wine cellars, games room, tennis courts, and bespoke activities like falconry and cocktail classes. Views: Spectacular panoramas of the Menai Straits and Snowdonia mountains. Check dates & prices here   A little corner of the Loire Valley in Wales; Château Rhianfa is a very unique Grade II listed French-style villa… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guest: Louis XIII of France. Château de Brissac, near Saumur and Angers, is one of the Loire Valley’s, and indeed France’s, best-known chateaux and sees many day visitors both French and international. With seven floors it is the country’s tallest, and its sheer scale alone makes it quite a jaw-dropping sight. It is also though an incredibly beautiful building, an elegant masterpiece of architecture that is still thankfully with us after over 400 years of service to the Dukes of Brissac, with the thirteenth Duke of Brissac being your welcoming host today. The chateau is the Duke and his family’s main home and so, despite the chateau’s… > See All the Details & Book

This elegant 19th-century neo-Baroque castle in Pontresina near St. Moritz, Swiss Alps, has long been considered a very special property but never more so than now, in its current form as one of Switzerland’s finest luxury 5-star hotels. It has panoramic views of some of the country’s most wonderful scenery; the Bernina glaciers and the Engadine Mountains, an award-winning restaurant, a luxury spa, and a host of other superb facilities. The service here is impeccable and the wonderful staff go out of their way to ensure both adults and children have a smooth, stress-free luxury hotel experience in an opulent, distinctly old-style, ambience. The Rooms: They have a great choice… > See All the Details & Book

There is plenty at Barberstown Castle for anyone interested in Irish history, but it never feels overly grand. Instead, the atmosphere is warm, comfortable and relaxed. We also appreciated the location. Being less than half an hour from Dublin Airport makes it a nice, easy choice for a first or last night in Ireland, or just a break from the city. The rooms are found in the Elizabethan and Georgian manor buildings rather than the medieval castle itself, but we were particularly pleased to see that much of their period character has been preserved. There’s a kind of anonymous feel that creep into some historic hotels after too much refurbishment,… > See All the Details & Book

Tiara Chateau Hotel Mont Royal Chantilly, to give it its full title, is a lavishly beautiful, 5-star chateau hotel near Paris, France with a sublime hilltop setting overlooking the ancient royal hunting grounds of Chantilly Forest. The chateau is quite a sight from the outside and was certainly built to impress. It is towering and commanding and yet elegant and refined. The interiors are more simple and understated than you might expect for such a lavish building but have oodles of old style, Belle Epoque charm. Their rooms and suites are suitably luxurious and elegant, and the hotel has superb facilities including a fine dining restaurant, a spa, a swimming… > See All the Details & Book

Tucked between Donegal Town and the Blue Stack Mountains, we love Lough Eske Castle’s setting, with the lake on one side and woodland all around, it feels wonderfully secluded. The rooms are exceptionally spacious, whether you stay in the castle itself or in the former stables and garden cottages, and are pretty much as good as you’ll find in any luxury urban hotel. The decor is fairly formal, and demur though, and the rooms give very little of the historic hotel feel, we’d prefer. It’s still a great hotel and the estate is just gorgeous, with lovely views all around. Lakeside and woodland trails, and the excellent spa facilities encourage… > See All the Details & Book

Most Famous Guests: Princess Diana, Prince Rainer, Grace Kelly, Michael Jackson… The 5 Star luxury Gstaad Palace Hotel is another Swiss Alps institution smoothly fulfilling the desires of discerning international guests with great style and class. It has stood on a hill over the lovely Alpine resort of Gstaad for over a hundred years and is very much a hotel of the old-school type. The atmosphere is grand and regal and the impeccable service leans on the side of formal. It has 90 luxurious rooms and suites and lots for guests to pass their time with; five different restaurants, two bars, a nightclub (the infamous GreenGo club), a fitness centre,… > See All the Details & Book

Parador de Alarcón is a truly stunning 8th-century Moorish fortress turned luxury Spanish castle hotel, in the village of Alarcón, near Cuenca. The setting is spectacular, the hotel has a wonderfully authentic historical ambience and it has one of the finest restaurants in the region. The Rooms: Parador Alarcon, though quite a large structure, has only 14 bedrooms and so is very much a boutique hotel. The choices are between standard doubles, standard twins, and superior doubles. All of them are beautifully designed and decorated, and have a real touch of class, though the superior doubles, located in the castle tower, are really worth the extra premium. At 28 m²… > See All the Details & Book

Authentic castle hotel – 4-star medieval fortress outside Turin with sweeping views. Elegant rooms – 27 romantic doubles, twins, and suites with period furnishings. Modern comforts – satellite TV, WiFi, mini bar, and air conditioning included discreetly. Renowned dining – award-winning restaurant with both intimate frescoed rooms and grand banquet halls. Family friendly – welcomes children but not pets.   Castello di Pavone is a tremendously authentic, 4 star, Italian castle hotel just outside Turin, Piedmont. Once a medieval hilltop fortress, it commands tremendous views over the surrounding little village of Pavone Canavese, the surrounding mountains, and the city of Turin. It has 27 very atmospheric romantic double or twin… > See All the Details & Book

Elegant boutique manor hotel with centuries of history in the heart of the Cotswolds Set on 10 acres of landscaped grounds, near some of the area’s most beautiful villages Just 15 individually styled rooms, combining antique charm with modern comforts Renowned restaurant with fresh, local produce and a refined atmosphere Close to Broadway, Stanton, Snowshill, and well-connected by train and road Enter your dates & check prices here   Buckland Manor is an elegant, very historical boutique hotel in the Cotswolds. It lies on 10 acres of landscaped grounds in the village of Buckland and is in the heart of some of the Gloucestershire/Worcestershire Cotswolds’ loveliest countryside. It is also… > See All the Details & Book

Hilltop setting – magical castle hotel overlooking Perugia, Umbria. Convenient location – just over 1 km from the old town, peaceful yet close to the city. Deeply Historic – 700-year-old building restored with respect for its history. Luxury done right – modern comforts blended subtly with heritage. Dining – two castle restaurants, including Michelin-starred Il Postale. Wellness – swimming pool and spa facilities on site. Family friendly – child friendly but not pet friendly.   Castello Di Monterone is a magical castle hotel in Central Italy perched on a hill overlooking the wonderful city of Perugia, Umbria. It’s very convenient to the city centre, just over a kilometre from the old… > See All the Details & Book

12th-century castle hotel: Overlooking the Rhine River in Oberwesel, near Frankfurt. Elegant rooms & suites: All with balconies or terraces facing the Rhine or vineyards. Knight’s Hall restaurant: Plus extensive gardens with winding paths and views. UNESCO-listed setting: In the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, surrounded by castles and vineyards. Rich Schönburg history: Rebuilt after 200 years of ruin, now family-run. Convenient location: Easy trips to Frankfurt, Mainz, Bonn, Cologne, and Koblenz. Check dates & price here   Schloss Schönburg is a luxury German castle hotel on the Rhine River by the medieval town of Oberwesel. And it’s really quite a stunning sight at first glance. There are also gorgeous views… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guest: Orson Welles. Parador de Cardona is a towering, 9th-century-era, hilltop fortress near Barcelona now converted into a beautifully atmospheric, modern luxury hotel. It is seen as the most important medieval fortress in Catalonia and one of the most important in Spain, the strategic setting allowing for jaw-dropping views and the castle itself still retaining a strong historical ambience. The Rooms: They have a choice of rooms: doubles, twins and triples, and some large double suites. The rooms are spacious, clean, comfortable, and generally furnished in a modern, minimalist style. The building as a whole is incredibly impressive and steeped in Catalan history, and though the rooms… > See All the Details & Book

Wine & estate – 7,100-acre Brunello-producing castle estate near Montalcino. History – 12th-century castle and 17th-century hamlet with vineyard views. Rooms – 14 boutique rooms and suites, 40–110 m², modern amenities included. Dining – Three restaurants, from casual to fine dining, plus enoteca tastings. Facilities – Pool, gardens, gym, massage pavilion, cookery school. Wine experiences – Vineyard tours, tastings, picnics, local wine visits. Location – Near Montalcino, under 1 hour to Siena and Montepulciano; beaches ~45 mins.   Aficionados of Italian wine, particularly Brunello, will be well aware of Castello Banfi near Montalcino, and Siena, Tuscany. The 7,100-acre estate has been producing quality wines since 1978 and offers a full complement… > See All the Details & Book

Top of the range, luxury hotel, one of the South West England’s very best. Great facilities include Michelin-starred restaurant, golf, tennis, croquet, and manicured gardens. Gorgeous, quintessential English village of Castle Combe provides the perfect setting.   The Manor House in Castle Combe is a quintessentially English, luxury castle hotel next to what is undoubtedly Wiltshire’s, and the Cotswold’s, loveliest village. The Manor dates all the way back to the 14th century but the present building and the general ambience lie firmly in the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The hotel has extremely high levels of service and comfort, and an elegant sophisticated ambience throughout. It also has superb facilities including a… > See All the Details & Book

In a beautiful setting in the wilds of Connemara, Galway, Ballynahinch Castle has acres of woods, a lake and a famous salmon fishing river on its grounds, within which you’ll find miles and miles of beautiful country walks. It also makes a superb base for further exploration of some of Europe’s most iconic scenery. The hotel itself is full of old world charm, and is a relaxed, sociable place that effortlessly mixes the formal and informal, with fine dining in the Owenmore restaurant and traditional Irish Pub ambience in the Fisherman’s Bar. There are no business meeting facilities here and no spa or the like. It is a place for… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev… The very exclusive Dolder Grand, long regarded as one of Europe’s best hotels, sits on a hill overlooking Zurich, Switzerland, a city in which it is very much an iconic building. It first served as a Curhaus or health spa in the late 19th century and still does today though with much more modern facilities at its 4,000-meter spa. It has two fairly distinct sections, the old, Belle Époque era castle building with its copper-topped turrets and the newer (completed 2008) modernist wings on either side. The addition of newer sections to historical hotels is a tricky business and many have… > See All the Details & Book

Built in the late 19th century, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel, on Glasgow’s leafy Southside, is a charming boutique hotel with all the aesthetics and atmosphere of a small Scottish castle. Rooms are split between the main castle and a separate garden building. We’d recommend opting for the castle rooms if you want more character, though the garden rooms have their own appeal too. Interiors are contemporary and the comfort level is consistently high. Bathrooms are a real highlight, with heated floors, rainfall showers, deep soaking tubs and Scottish-made toiletries. Dining is a strong point. At the Morrison Room refined Scottish cuisine is served in an elegant, formal setting that still feels… > See All the Details & Book

Some castle hotels can feel a little formal or overly grand, but Ballyseede has a warmth and ease about it. The location helps too. It’s just outside Tralee in County Kerry, and makes a very convenient base for exploring this, one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. The castle dates back to the 16th century and retains plenty of historic character. We preferred the rooms and suites in the castle itself, which feel much more a part of the experience than the separate lodge accommodation. Another thing that stands out is the food. Ballyseede has built a strong reputation for its dining, and you can see see why. Evenings tend to… > See All the Details & Book

Parador de Chinchón is a 17th century convent palace, in a charming little town near Madrid, now converted into very classy, stylish and friendly hotel. Kudos go to the interior designers here for keeping a perfect balance between the modern and the historic. The exteriors are very much old style (apart from the obviously modern outdoor swimming pool) and beautifully atmospheric, with a lovely old cloister and traditional gardens perfect for strolling and lounging around in. The interiors are a lovely blend of modern luxury hotel and centuries’ old palace. The original architecture is on display almost everywhere and the majority of the furniture and fittings is antique but you… > See All the Details & Book

We first loved Abbeyglen Castle Hotel for its setting. It sits above Clifden Bay with the Twelve Bens away in the distance. it feels very rural Connemara, but with the centre of Clifden, the region’s capital in all but name, just a short walk away. The hotel itself occupies a Victorian-era castle folly and has a comfortable, welcoming feel. It’s not the grandest castle hotel in Ireland, nor does it try to be. But it does have great facilities. A fine-dining restaurant, a nice bar with regular live music, spa facilities and tennis courts. The rooms are homely and full of character, with antique furnishings, and some with four-poster beds… > See All the Details & Book

Just outside Edinburgh, Dalhousie Castle Hotel is recognised as Scotland’s oldest continually inhabited castle. It has origins going right back to the 13th century, with later medieval and 15th-century additions shaping the structure we see today. Its long association with the Ramsay family defines its character, and its former guest list, including many monarchs, can read like a who’s who of Scottish history. Accommodation is spread across 29 rooms within the castle and a nearby lodge. Rooms have classic styling with warm tones and period-inspired details, while bathrooms are more contemporary. The Dungeon Restaurant delivers a uniquely atmospheric experience in a semi-medieval setting, while the Orangery offers a brighter alternative… > See All the Details & Book

Historic pedigree: 16th-century castle with Renaissance architecture, set in Weserbergland Nature Park. Famous guests: Tsar Peter the Great of Russia once stayed here and was amazed by its exotic gardens. 5-star luxury: Lavish rooms, spa & beauty center, swimming pool, and Michelin-starred dining. Gourmet choice: Haute cuisine at the Michelin-starred Gourmet Restaurant, plus casual dining in the Schlosskeller. Recreation: 18-hole golf course, landscaped gardens, hiking, biking, and boating in the surrounding countryside. Convenient location: Less than an hour from Hanover, near Hamelin of Pied Piper fame. Check dates & prices here.   Near Hanover, Lower Saxony, Schlosshotel Münchhausen is yet another, highly rated, 5 star castle hotel in Germany It… > See All the Details & Book

Iconic castle – 13th-century landmark with views of Siena and the Crete Senesi plains. Historic charm – preserved rustic atmosphere with limited modernization. Italianate gardens – beautifully maintained grounds for peaceful strolls. Family-run – welcoming hosts also manage an organic farm, vineyards, and a farm restaurant nearby. Flexible lodging – B&B rooms and self-catering apartments for up to four guests. Family & pet friendly – children and pets are welcome.   Il Castello Delle Quattro Torra – the castle of the four towers – is an iconic sight on the outskirts of the walled city of Siena, Tuscany, and comes with tremendous views over the city on one side and… > See All the Details & Book

Hilltop castle hotel – 11th-century property near Montalcino with panoramic Brunello vineyard views. Exclusive retreat – intensely luxurious but with a notable price tag. Standout amenities – extensive spa and wellness, including natural thermal spring baths. Fine dining – two on-site restaurants that hold Michelin stars. Accommodation range – rooms to opulent suites (one with private pool) and spacious self-catering apartments.   Castello di Velona is a stunning 5-star, 11th-century era, castle hotel set high on a hilltop outside Montalcino, Tuscany, and comes with panoramic views over the iconic Brunello vineyards of the Val d’Orcia. It is very much an exclusive, luxury retreat, and one which also comes with a… > See All the Details & Book

Prestigious address: Grade II listed landmark on Hyde Park Corner, one of London’s finest locations. Unmatched luxury: Lavish late Georgian/Regency interiors with 24-hour butlers for all rooms. World-class dining: Double Michelin Starred Céleste Restaurant and vintage cognac at the Library Bar. Award-winning spa: Previously voted England’s Best Hotel Spa, with bespoke treatments. Exceptional service: Elite concierge team, chauffeur-driven Rolls Royces. Check dates & prices here   The Lanesborough, on Hyde Park Corner, has perhaps London’s most prestigious address and consistently appears near the top of any sensible list of that city’s finest luxury hotels, with the added bonus of its double Michelin Starred Céleste Restaurant. A Grade II listed, Neoclassical… > See All the Details & Book

The four-star 19th century Château Hotel Grand Barrail lies among some beautiful countryside near Bordeaux and nearer still to Saint-Emilion in the heart of South West France’s Aquitaine Dordogne. The estate is surrounded by beautifully tended gardens and acres of vineyards. It is particularly known for two things: its kitchen, run by Chef Romain Gondras, serves up some of the most innovative cuisine in the region, and its extensive spa has two hammams, two saunas, a hot tub, various treatment and fitness rooms, and a wide choice of Cinq Mondes body treatments. The Rooms: Between the château and its three neighbouring annexes, there is a choice of over 40 rooms… > See All the Details & Book

Overlooking Loch Fyne on Scotland’s Kintyre Peninsula, Stonefield Castle Hotel has a suitably wonderful setting for its small, 60 acre estate. Built in 1837 in the Scottish baronial style, the castle still carries a strong sense of its original character. Wood panelling, traditional detailing and a timeworn elegance create the vibe. It feels more like a lived-in historic house than a formal hotel, which is why we like it. Rooms are spread across 36 Classic and Deluxe categories, some quite contemporary, others more heritage. We particularly like the loch-facing rooms, naturally enough, but they come with an extra premium.. Dining is at the Stonefield Restaurant, where large windows overlook the… > See All the Details & Book

Neo-Gothic castle hotel: Striking Gothic atmosphere, famous filming location, and a landmark in Windsor. Expansive grounds: 33 acres with gardens, woodland, golf, tennis, spa, pool, and fine dining. Notable Former Guests: Prince Imperial Napoléon, Lilly Langtry, Christopher Lee. Enter your dates & check prices here.   Perhaps Windsor’s most famous hotel, the luxury Oakley Court is a fabulous Neo-Gothic castle hotel on the banks of the River Thames. It has a quite palpable, brooding Gothic atmosphere, something that led to it being the set of many movies and TV series: The Rocky Horror Picture Show, various Hammer House of Horrors films, and The Hound of the Baskervilles, to name but… > See All the Details & Book

Historic Cumbrian castle: Augill Castle in Upper Eden Valley, nearly 200 years old, homely luxury. Beautiful surroundings: North Pennines, Yorkshire Dales, Lakeland Fells nearby. Enter your dates & check prices here   The enchanting Augill Castle Hotel has stood proud in Cumbria, England’s, Upper Eden Valley, for nearly two hundred years. It also has some of the country’s loveliest rural regions at its doorstep – the North Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lakeland Fells. Built in 1841, in the very popular (at the time) Neo-Gothic style, Augill Castle started life as a grand country retreat and is still as grand as ever in its present incarnation as a luxury… > See All the Details & Book

The spectacular Château Gütsch is a Lucerne, Switzerland, landmark  — a fairytale-like, 19th-century folly castle, it sits high on a hilltop with stunning views over the city and Lake Lucerne. The setting is peaceful and isolated but the hotel has its own historical funicular which runs from 4.30 am until 1.15 am so guests can come and go to the city in a matter of minutes. The Rooms: They have a choice of 31 spacious rooms and suites at Chateau Gutsch with the rooms, both doubles and triples, being pretty much identical except for the view. There is an extra premium for the ‘Lake View’ rooms which have magnificent views… > See All the Details & Book

In the foothills of County Offaly’s Slieve Bloom Mountains and surrounded by a scenic 650-acre estate, Kinnitty Castle Hotel offers romance and seclusion. The history here stretches back more than seven centuries, although the present castle dates largely from the early 18th. It’s a pretty big castle but there are just 37 rooms, creating a nicely intimate feel. The rooms are spacious sure, but much of the space is given over to common areas which are a particular highlight at Kinnitty. The Dungeon Bar, Drawing Room and Sli Dala Restaurant are lovely spaces, full of character and atmosphere. Beyond the castle, meanwhile, lie acres of woodland and parkland, with walking… > See All the Details & Book

Castillo de Arteaga is a fabulous Neo-Gothic castle hotel near Guernica in the rolling hills of the Basque Country. The present-day structure was built in honour of Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, Prince Imperial of France, in the mid-19th century, on the site of a ruined castle dating from the mid-15th century. Its four grand towers now make a very imposing sight over the wilds of the Urdaibai Nature Reserve and its interiors are a lavish feast for the eyes, though it has been fairly recently renovated the design and decoration remain true to the historical essence. The castle has just 13 rooms & suites for overnight stays and so has very much… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Ferdinand II of Aragon, Isabella I of Castile… Castillo del Buen Amor/Buen Amor Castle near Salamanca, Spain, and less than two hours from Madrid, is a splendidly atmospheric place with a history going all the way back to 1227. The property is huge, with a great amount of common space; there are a total of seven living rooms, for example. Outside there are beautiful gardens, a vineyard, a maze, a pine forest, and a saltwater swimming pool. The Rooms: They have a range of rooms and suites, 41 in total and all doubles or twins (all with king or queen size beds as standard), from Standard… > See All the Details & Book

Kilkea Castle is perhaps Irelands most authentic castle hotel. There’s a huge amount of history here, dating back to the 12th century, and is reputed to be Ireland’s longest continually inhabited castle. It’s in County Kildare, under an hour from Dublin, so it’s very easy to reach. We liked the variety of accommodation at Kilkea, from rooms inside the castle itself and courtyard rooms, to more modern, more independent, lodges scattered in the grounds. The castle rooms stand out most, especially the suites, which are old school romantic luxury but don’t feel over-styled. Dining also leaves a strong impression, from the relaxed, low key feel of The Keep Bar to… > See All the Details & Book

Why we chose this castle hotel: Grand 5-star manor, blending classic British elegance with modern comforts. Set on Dartmoor, with 275+ acres of countryside, gardens, and golf course. Variety of stays, from castle rooms to spacious self-catering estate lodges. Extensive facilities, including spa, indoor pool, fine dining, and outdoor activities. Rich history, from aristocratic retreat to wartime hospital to luxury hotel.   The very grand, 5-star Bovey Castle is a Dartmoor and South Devon institution. It has served as a luxury hotel for nearly 90 years now and still has oodles of old-fashioned British elegance and class. It has a gorgeous setting too, by the River Bovey and Dartmoor National… > See All the Details & Book

Different from most castle hotels in Ireland, Clontarf Castle is just minutes from the centre of Dublin, making it a decent choice for anyone wanting a luxury city break with a little history thrown into the mix. Parts of the property date back centuries, but the interiors are contemporary, with not too much of the history on display inside. Purists looking for creaking staircases and medieval ambience may prefer somewhere else, but that’s not really what Clontarf is trying to be. Instead, it sees itself as an upscale city hotel with castle walls and an interesting history. Granted though, the rooms are generally more historic, which we appreciate, and some… > See All the Details & Book

Château de Bourron is a classy, boutique chateau hotel in Fontainebleau, near Paris. It has a moat, two small pavillons, 100-acre of wood and parkland, and has a history going back to at least the fourteenth century. The Accommodation: They have five entry-level double rooms in an adjacent building, Maison d’Artagnan, then some nicer rooms in the chateau itself, the latter being divided into superior, prestige, and deluxe categories with the deluxe being the largest and most expensive. It’s worth the extra to stay in the chateau itself we think, unless maybe you’re staying as a group or family and rent out all five bedrooms at Maison d’Artagnan, so you… > See All the Details & Book

Schloss Schadau is a wonderfully elegant 200-year-old manor house that offers old-world charm and atmosphere, friendly staff, a lovely restaurant, and a very romantic setting by Lake Thunersee, just south of Bern in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region. The Rooms: It has a choice of accommodation from small double rooms to suites ranging in size from 18 to 44 m². The larger suites and rooms have a balcony and some terrific views over the lake and mountains, with the best value perhaps being the ‘Deluxe Room with Balcony’ which is only marginally smaller than the suites and has equally good views. The entire hotel is unashamedly old-style, and the decor of… > See All the Details & Book

Notable guests: Mahatma Gandhi, John Profumo, Christine Keeler, Harold Macmillan. Royal connection: Meghan Markle stayed here before her wedding to Prince Harry. National Trust: Property open to the public seasonally with grounds accessible year-round. Historic scandal: Site of the 1960s Profumo affair, adding a touch of notorious glamour. Luxury hotel: 5-star manor house near London with top service and facilities. Enter your dates & check prices here.   Meghan Markle left Cliveden House, near Windsor, on the morning of Saturday 19th May for her wedding to Prince Harry, having spent her last night as a single woman there. We can’t be sure how much time she spent considering her accommodation… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Marlene Dietrich, Alfred Hitchcock, Audrey Hepburn… Long a St Moritz, and Swiss Alps, landmark, the 5-star luxury Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is a splendid building and a legendary hotel. Built in the grand, Neo-Gothic style popular in the late 19th century its historical elegance is still very much intact. It has now been wedded to modern facilities and levels of comfort and service that are simply world-class. It is very much a hospitality institution, and one of Switzerland’s, and Europe’s, very best luxury hotels. The Rooms: It has 157 rooms, 37 of which are suites. All are as plush and grand as you would expect and run… > See All the Details & Book

This Castle Hotel’s Highlights: Iconic villa – 5-star Arabesque villa on Lake Orta, built in 1879 with stunning minaret and unique historic design. Rooms – Classic rooms to spacious suites with romantic décor, antiques, four-poster beds, and modern amenities. Dining – Two Michelin-starred restaurant with creative Italian cuisine and a 1,800-label wine collection. Wellness – Cooking classes and Chandra Deva wellness centre offering Indian-inspired treatments. Outdoors – Gardens, lakeside walks, cycling, and guided excursions to Orta San Giulio and nearby UNESCO sites. History – Built by cotton pioneer Crespi, completed in 1899, once visited by royalty and artists. Location – Lakeside, 10-min walk to Orta San Giulio, 25 km from… > See All the Details & Book

Co. Cavan isn’t generally an obvious destination for foreign tourists to Ireland, it’s an unassuming, typically rural, inland county that many people only end up passing through on their way from Dublin to the more mountainous, coastal charms of places like Sligo or Donegal. This location might be one of the reasons Cabra Castle is more under the radar for foreign visitors than other castle hotels in Ireland, but it has to be said that the castle itself alone might just make a detour worthwhile. It is a very impressive, and very large, building, constructed in the early 19th century on the site of a more ancient castle. It was… > See All the Details & Book

5 Star Georgian manor hotel: Stylish blend of historic and contemporary. Stunning setting: Lovely gardens flow down to the Exe estuary and Jurassic Coast. Award-winning dining: Michelin-starred restaurant within six months of opening. Enter your dates & check prices here   The 5-star Lympstone Manor Hotel in South Devon is a Georgian-era manor house turned exclusive contemporary hotel that has realistic ambitions to become one of South West England’s very finest. It describes itself as a ”new generation’ country house hotel and oozes style and class; the superb interior design blending old and new with great panache. The setting is tremendous too with gardens running all the way down to… > See All the Details & Book

Rising above Salzburg on the summit of Mönchsberg and surrounded by private woodland, Schloss Hotel Mönchstein the kind of dreamy location few hotels anywhere can match, with views stretching across the city to the distant Alps beyond. We particularly like the sense of peace you have at Schloss Mönchstein. It really is so quiet, almost, rural up there, despite being only a short walk from Salzburg’s Altstadt. It has a very storied, layered past, which we detail in the review. Its origins date back to the 13th century, with various transformations turning it from a medieval fortress into, step by step, the elegant hilltop retreat we see today. The hotel… > See All the Details & Book

Château de Bagnols, near Lyon, France, is a really quite magnificent 800-year-old Beaujolais château now serving as a 5-star luxury hotel. It has some terrifically opulent rooms and suites, beautiful gardens, top-of-the-range spa facilities, and terrific fine dining at a Michelin Star-awarded restaurant. Those factors alone would make it a wonderful place to stay but what makes Château de Bagnols extra special is its remarkably well-preserved castle structure and the extremely impressive interior design which weds perfectly the historical and the modern. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful chateau hotels in France. The Rooms: They have a range of suites on offer, in the chateau itself… > See All the Details & Book

Tudor Era: Castle with beautiful grounds and a 500-year-old vineyard. Luxury B&B: Combines period features with modern comforts. Activities: Private massages, fine dining, and outdoor activities available. Most Notable Former Guests: King Henry VIII & Anne Boleyn. Enter your dates and check prices here   Thornbury Castle Hotel is a true luxury B&B retreat at the edge of the South Gloucestershire Cotswolds, and one of the finest examples in England of a genuine, immaculately preserved, Tudor castle. You can soak up history with a stroll through the castle itself and its beautifully tended grounds which include, surprisingly enough, a 500-year-old vineyard. Treat yourself too, to a massage in the privacy… > See All the Details & Book

Historic luxury – 5-star Four Seasons in Florence, set in 15th-16th century palaces with 11-acre walled gardens. Elegant rooms – 116 rooms & suites, from deluxe doubles to the 234 m² Royal Suite, with marble bathrooms and fine linens. Fine dining – Michelin-starred Il Palagio, casual poolside options, and Atrium Bar for cocktails and tea. Spa & leisure – Top hotel spa, pool, gym, jacuzzis, and tranquil gardens for picnics or strolls. Exclusive experiences – Private Uffizi tours, Ponte Vecchio dinners, and hot air balloon trips. Family & pets – Kids’ club, babysitting, child-friendly menus; pets welcome. Central location – Under 15 minutes’ walk to Florence’s historic centre, Duomo, and museums.  … > See All the Details & Book

Château de Fonscolombe is a magnificent 18th-century château built in the Italianate Quattrocento style, now a 5-star boutique hotel in Provence, France. It has wonderfully elegant accommodation, beautiful botanic gardens, a vineyard and winery, spa facilities, and an excellent restaurant. The Rooms: They have 50 B&B rooms and suites at the château, from doubles to quadruples, with the rooms being classed as Standard, Deluxe, and Superior, and the suites; Junior and Prestige. The Prestige Suites are the ultimate in style and class and a lavishly romantic feast for the senses, but even the most standard rooms at Château de Fonscolombe, though more minimalist, are also elegant and chic. The entire… > See All the Details & Book

Elegance & space: Beautiful 400-year-old manor house with 1,000 acres of estate. Gardens & dining: Famous Victorian gardens and even more famous Michelin-starred restaurant. Notable Former Guests: Queen Mary, Gertrude Jekyll.   The 400-year-old Gravetye is a gorgeous 17-room boutique manor house hotel near East Grinstead, Sussex, Gatwick Airport, and just 30 miles from central London. It is surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of peaceful countryside including some deservedly famous Victorian-era gardens, designed by Gertrude Jekyll. To top that it also has one of Sussex’s very finest restaurants, the renowned, Michelin-starred ‘Dining Room’.   The Rooms: Range of options: 17 rooms from singles to suites, all classically styled. Design… > See All the Details & Book

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel feels both connected to Dublin and pleasantly removed from it. One of only two castle hotels within the city, it occupies an enviable position above Dublin Bay in the leafy, upper class suburb of Killiney. What began life as the 18th-century manor house, Mount Malpas, acquired the turrets and castle-like flourishes in the 19th-century that give it its castle folly architecture today. Inside, the 113 guestrooms are all quite individual with plenty of choice on offer. The decor is 20th century sophisticated, classic style, kind of demure maybe but with some flourishes of colourful wallpaper and fabric. Two restaurants, a bar, spa facilities, a, more substantial than… > See All the Details & Book

Set just outside Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle is something of a Highland icon. It has a particularly alluring combination of magnificent scenery, history, and grandeur. Queen Victoria’s famously admiring diary entry after her stay. That she ‘never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’ still feels apt, and later visits from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip reinforce the point. Built in the 1860s on what would become the 42,000-acre Inverlochy Estate, the building was transformed into a hotel in 1969 after a long lineage of private ownership and sporting estate life. There are only 17 rooms at Inverlochy, so be prepared to book… > See All the Details & Book

The 17th-century era Château de Tourreau is without doubt one of the finest châteaux for rent in Provence, and indeed one of Provence’s finest properties in general. It has been beautifully renovated in keeping with its historical spirit, but with 21st-century conveniences and facilities, and the interior design is immaculate at every turn. It also has 17 acres of private parkland which includes a historic consecrated chapel, meticulously designed gardens (with a large swimming pool and tennis courts), as well as woodlands, orchards, streams, and a small lake. The Accommodation: Note: There is a 3-night minimum stay at this property. The interiors cover at least 800 square metres, with nine… > See All the Details & Book

The 4 Star Château de Labro is a luxury vineyard hotel & spa near the town of Rodez in central France’s Occitanie region, previously known as Midi-Pyrénées. The medieval château oozes old-world elegance and the grounds have charming gardens, a swimming pool, orchards, and vineyards. There is a very fine restaurant at the château and the food and wine are superb. For an extra novel stay, if a medieval château bedroom doesn’t appeal, you can also spend the night at the luxury treehouse in the gardens. The Rooms: The treehouse is a very popular choice so can get booked out months in advance. It is a fine piece of engineering,… > See All the Details & Book

The 4 Star Château de la Caze is a very romantic, Renaissance-era chateau hotel with a fairy tale-like setting in the Gorges du Tarn near Rodez, a canyon gorge that is one of this area of France’s most well-known natural wonders. The chateau has an intimate, boutique hotel feel and a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. It also has some lovely gardens, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a spa bath, a gym, and an excellent gastronomic restaurant amongst other things. The Rooms: They have a choice of rooms and suites available from standard double rooms to 40 m² suites. Most of them are in the chateau itself with some suites also to… > See All the Details & Book

Fonab Castle Hotel sits quietly on the edge of Loch Faskally with Ben Vrackie rising in the distance. The castle itself dates to the late 19th century and has evolved over time into a small estate rather than a single grand building. The accommodation is spread across the original baronial-style castle, a modern wing and a series of lodges, and with just 42 rooms in total, it always feels nicely intimate. Interiors are more contemporary than historic, even in the castle sections, but comfort is consistent throughout. Our favourite room is, and who can blame us, the top-floor Penthouse Suite which has gorgeous open views across the loch. The main… > See All the Details & Book

Being able to stroll around the grounds of Europe’s most iconic historical sites after the tourist hordes have left and staying within the walls of Granada’s Alhambra fortress feels like an exclusive experience, and that it certainly is. The only way to do this is to stay in the luxury Parador de Granada, something which makes it one of Andalusia’s and Spain’s most desired castle hotels, and just hotels in general. And so, unless you are lucky, it can be extremely difficult to find a room here without booking well in advance. The Accommodation: The accommodation is in a beautifully atmospheric medieval building, a building which was once part of… > See All the Details & Book

The 5-star Parador de Santiago – Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos is an integral part of the historic core of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain, and one of the world’s very oldest hotels. It is located on Obradoiro Square beside the cathedral which marks the end of the infamous Camino de Santiago, with which the hotel is intrinsically linked. It was commissioned by King Ferdinand in 1499 as a place of rest and recuperation for pilgrims. A mixture between a medical hospital and a hotel, known in those days as a hostal, guests were originally allowed a free stay of 3 nights in summer and 5 nights in winter courtesy… > See All the Details & Book

The Napoleon III-era Château de Sacy is now a sophisticated boutique hotel near Reim in the heart of France’s Champagne region and just over an hour from Paris. With just 12 rooms and suites it is a homely, intimate place, which has friendly, helpful staff, an excellent restaurant, and sweeping views over the surrounding vineyards. The Rooms: Your choices are between classic, superior, and deluxe rooms and two lovely 50 m² suites. All are individually decorated, opulent, and chic, and get the balance just right between modern and period style. They are also spacious with even the most basic rooms; the classic rooms, covering a minimum of 23 m². Of… > See All the Details & Book

Hilltop fortress: A medieval stronghold overlooking Lake Edersee and Kellerwald-Edersee Nature Reserve. Historic yet modern: Exterior remains castle-like while interiors lean sleek and contemporary. Stylish rooms: Boutique hotel feel with touches of medieval character. Dining variety: Gourmet restaurant in a medieval hall, plus modern café, bar, and lounge. Spa facilities: Relax in a wellness area with castle views. Check dates & prices here   The 4 Star Schloss Waldeck is a stunning German hilltop castle hotel overlooking the Kellerwald-Edersee Nature Reserve and Lake Edersee itself. It is a jaw dropping sight – it has the look and feel of exactly what it is – a medieval hill fortress protecting this… > See All the Details & Book

Near St Tropez and the Riviera, this 5 Star French château hotel is a slice of heaven in rural Provence, and guaranteed to please lovers of nature, wine, and food. The vast majority of the 1,235-acre estate is left to the supervision of Mother Nature and is a classic Provençal mix of garrigue and centuries-old trees. They have some charming gardens too, which include a swimming pool, and surrounding it 320 acres of vineyards. Their vineyards have been producing Provençal wines and rosés for over three hundred years, with their wines highly regarded. There are two fine restaurants at the hotel to enjoy too, one of which, Jardin de Benjamin,… > See All the Details & Book

Château Marteret is a fairytale-like, luxury chateau for rent in the heart of Gascony, South West France, near both Bordeaux and the foothills of the Pyrenees. It has eight bedrooms and can sleep up to fourteen people very comfortably. The beautifully renovated interiors are minimalist and chic, maintaining loads of historical charm. Surrounding the chateau are over 400 acres of estate to be explored, including orchards, woodland, meadows, a lake, and a small herd of Meren horses. The Rooms: The chateau has a total of six spacious double bedrooms and one twin. It also has five very nice bathrooms some with romantic bathtubs, an elegant, French country-style kitchen (catering services… > See All the Details & Book

Historic estate: Grade II listed building with 300+ years of history and grand interiors. Stunning grounds: Vast 20,000-acre estate with gardens, parkland, woodland and five lakes. Top dining & spa: Fine dining, cooking courses and a full spa & country club on site. Activities galore: Falconry, horse riding, fishing, clay shooting, golf and more on offer. Check dates & prices here   Swinton Park Castle is a luxury castle hotel in the Yorkshire Dales, England, and a Grade II listed building with a history going back over 300 years. It is a fabulous building full of historical intrigue and ambience, and the huge estate is extremely picturesque with a mixture… > See All the Details & Book

Chateau de Chantore is a truly gorgeous 18th-century era Norman chateau B&B, with a view of Mont-Saint-Michel, and surrounded by nearly fifty acres of peaceful woods and parkland which includes a lake. It has a selection of tremendously elegant rooms and suites that really are a treat for the eyes and, though modern with some touches, they are so in keeping with the historical fabric that you’d be forgiven for a waking dream that Louis XV is still on the throne. The eye for design – the attention to historical detail in particular – is very impressive indeed. There are no duvets – only traditional linens and wool blankets on… > See All the Details & Book

Very Historic: Cave Castle combines a ‘newer’ Victorian era grandeur with a history dating back to the Doomsday Book. Spacious rooms: Over 70 well-appointed doubles and twins, with castle rooms featuring historic character and four-poster beds. Extensive facilities: Includes a renowned health club, spa, beauty salon, and a full 18-hole golf course. Dining variety: Choose between formal meals at Windsor Restaurant or relaxed dining at the Courtyard Bistro. Accessible location: Set in South Cave, near Hull, York, and Leeds, with strong transport connections. Enter your dates & check prices here.   Cave Castle is a luxury historic hotel retreat near Hull, York, and Leeds, with superb facilities including an 18-hole… > See All the Details & Book

Historic castle hotel: Nearly 1,000 years of history overlooking the Neckar Valley. Michelin-star dining: Elegant Swabian cuisine with a view, plus an excellent wine list. Thirty unique rooms: Blend of rustic traditional charm and sleek contemporary comfort. Scenic activities: Discounted access to a top golf course, hiking trails, and river adventures. Family heritage: Still owned by the von Rassler family after nine generations. Check dates & prices here.   Schloss Weitenburg, a castle hotel near both Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany, with a history going back nearly a thousand years. It also boasts a Michelin Star-awarded restaurant, and a stunning setting overlooking the Neckar Valley between the Black Forest and the… > See All the Details & Book

Parador de Alcañiz is a stunning Spanish hilltop castle hotel overlooking the town of the same name between Zaragoza and the Mediterranean. It has a history going all the way back to the 12th century and some of its original features are intact from that time, from the later medieval period, and after its conversion from a defensive fortress to a monastery and then to a residential palace in the 18th century. The views from all around are stunning, and you could spend many happy hours just wandering the grounds. Internally, though renovated on numerous occasions over the years (and centuries!), the castle has that charming old-world feel. Much of… > See All the Details & Book

Hidden away in the forests of South Ayrshire, Glenapp Castle Hotel rewards a detour. Designed in the 1860s by David Bryce in the Scottish Baronial style, the castle retains plenty of Victorian character, with original turrets, stonework and period detail intact. The interiors are elegant with oak-panelled corridors, drawing rooms with open fires, and comfortable lounges setting a relaxed tone. The Michelin-starred restaurant at Glenapp is an absolute highlight, offering polished multi-course dining, and you can order lighter meals throughout the day from the castle kitchens. Rooms are spacious and traditionally furnished, some with fireplaces and sea views towards Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran.

UK visitors may know Chateau Mareuil from the Channel 4 series, Escape to the Chateau DIY, which ended in 2021. It’s a very charming 15th-century chateau with a lovely setting overlooking the Asse valley in the Hautes Vienne region of France. It has, as fans of the series will know, been painstakingly restored and the result is a chateau guest house with an authentic look and feel. The environment is gorgeous too – the chateau’s flower gardens and lawns are flanked by a river, and surrounded on all sides by silent green fields in this deeply rural part of central France. The Accommodation: There are three guest suites in the… > See All the Details & Book

Long the jewel in the crown of Irish Castle Hotels, and more than ever after its acquisition, and subsequent upgrade, by the Red Carnation Hotel group in 2013, the 5 star Ashford Castle is a globally recognized brand. We could never not put Ashford in a list of Ireland’s best castle hotels. It’s always in the running for Ireland’s best hotel in general in fact. So you can come with extremely high expectations, and expectations are met consistently and comfortably by this extravagantly beautiful hotel. Ashford Castle sits on the wooded shores of Lough Corrib in north Co. Galway, with the lake and its small islands stretching out on front and… > See All the Details & Book

Why we chose this castle hotel: Historic luxury castle: 12th-century era, immersive history. Thoroughly medieval: Retains defensive walls, moat, portcullis. Notable Former Guests: King Henry VIII, King Charles II, Queen Elizabeth II.. Enter your dates & check prices here   The 12th-century era Amberley Castle is a unique luxury hotel just south of London, in West Sussex, England with an impeccable historical pedigree. Some of England’s most famous historical figures have passed through its doors and it still retains a huge number of historical features, including 60-foot-high defensive walls, portcullis, and moat. In its present incarnation as a luxury hotel it offers an immersive historical experience as well top-class service… > See All the Details & Book

Few grand hotels carry their history as effortlessly as Vienna’s Hotel Imperial. Originally built in 1866 as the Palais Württemberg, this stunning palace hotel has welcomed everyone from Brahms and Wagner to Queen Elizabeth II and Charlie Chaplin, yet what continues to impress us is how little of its old world character has been sacrificed for modern comforts. We love the sheer theatricality of the interiors. Marble halls, crystal chandeliers, hand-carved statues and richly detailed Belle Époque décor create something quintessentially Viennese. We especially love the service at Hotel Imperial, and the personal butlers that come with many of the suites are a cut above. The food impresses everyone here,… > See All the Details & Book

Black Forest charm: Medieval castle surrounded by its own vineyards near Baden-Baden and Karlsruhe. Michelin-star dining: Home to Werner’s, a celebrated restaurant with cooking classes available. Fairytale setting: Castle perched above Gernsbach with sweeping views of the Murg Valley. Luxury stay: Rooms in the adjacent manor house offer comfort with a touch of old-world atmosphere. Wine & wellness: Estate vineyards, tours, tastings, and easy access to spa-town Baden-Baden. Check dates & prices here.   Nestling in Germany’s Black Forest and near both Baden-Baden and Karlsruhe, Schloss Eberstein is a medieval-era stately home & castle surrounded by acres of its own vineyards. It is a place to relax and be pampered… > See All the Details & Book

Majestic Baroque palace: A 300-year-old 5-star luxury hotel near Cologne and Düsseldorf. World-class dining: Home to Vendôme, a 3-Michelin-starred restaurant acclaimed as Germany’s best. Elegant rooms: Suites range up to 120 m², with marble bathrooms and Rhine Valley views. Lavish facilities: Full-service spa, multiple restaurants, lively bars, and exceptional service. Prime location: Overlooks Cologne Cathedral, with easy metro and airport access. Check dates & prices here   The 5-star Schloss Bensberg Hotel, near Cologne & Düsseldorf, Germany, is a quite majestic, and quite enormous, 300-year-old Baroque Palace. It coms with gorgeous gardens, and a host of superb facilities, including what many consider to be Germany’s very best restaurant; the 3… > See All the Details & Book

On the northern edge of the Isle of Mull, Glengorm Castle Hotel sits above the Atlantic with wide views towards the Hebrides, including Coll and Barra. Built in 1858 in the Scots Baronial style, the castle reflects a period of major change on the island during the Highland Clearances. It has since been restored and adapted into a castle hotel, with accommodation spread across the main building and former stable blocks. Interiors are simple and comfortable rather than decorative or very historic. Expect warm colours, traditional furnishings and practical layouts, with Victorian-style baths being the main nod to the building’s heritage. T There is no full restaurant, the accommodation is… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Grace Kelly, Jacques Chirac, Queen Elizabeth II… The magnificent walled city of Carcassonne, France, is certainly a wondrous sight. The words ‘walled city’ can be used to refer to a huge number of cities around the world but in Carcassonne’s case the ‘walls’ are more castle ramparts than walls and so, rather excitingly, it could be said that Carcassonne is a city within a castle. So popular is it though that the hordes of tourists that descend on it every summer can take somewhat from the experience that such a stirring sight can promise. The walled city of Carcassonne has a, not so little, secret that… > See All the Details & Book

Most Notable Former Guests: Richard Wagner, Jean Cocteau, Marlene Dietrich, The Dalai Lama…. The name Beau Rivage Hotel tends, these days, to be more associated with Lausanne than Geneva in Switzerland, Though its special concept of luxury is known around the world, the very first Beau Rivage was, and still very much is, a Geneva hotel. The Right Bank Geneva original no longer has any association with those who share the illustrious Beau Rivage name, and it carries on independently as one of, if not the, most elegant and opulent 5-star luxury hotel in Geneva. A 5-star luxury hotel that also boasts an internationally famous, Michelin-starred restaurant, and one that… > See All the Details & Book

Known as one of the most beautiful chateaux in Deux-Sevres, Aquitaine, the majestic Château de Saint Loup was commissioned in 1609 to honour Good King Henry, Henri IV of France, and is now an intimate boutique hotel. The chateau is a stirring sight, it still has a wonderfully medieval atmosphere and, though you may be paying for the pleasure, it feels quite a privilege to stay there. Knowing that in times gone by such a property would have been out of bounds for all except the highest levels of French aristocracy. The Rooms: They have just nine spacious rooms to choose from; doubles, triples, and one larger ‘family room’ which… > See All the Details & Book

This Castle Hotel’s Highlights: Historic castle – Dates back to the 12th century, with ties to the Medici family and Dante’s Divine Comedy. Authentic stay – Self-catering accommodation ranges from cozy studios to grand castle apartments & classic Tuscan villas. Art & charm – Antique furniture, wood-beamed ceilings, frescoes, and open fireplaces give a true old-world feel throughout. Tuscan cuisine – On-site restaurant serves traditional, locally sourced dishes paired with Chianti wines. Facilities & views – Outdoor swimming pool, small children’s playground, and panoramic views over Chianti hills. Location – 20 km from Florence, ideal for exploring Chianti, Pisa, San Gimignano, and other Tuscan gems; Florence airport under 30 minutes…. > See All the Details & Book

Royal heritage: Built by Empress Victoria of Germany in 1893, with ties to the Prussian and British royal families. Notable former guests: Empress Victoria, U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower, and many more. Film connection: Used as Sandringham House in the Princess Diana film Spencer. 5-star luxury: Fine dining restaurant, beauty salon, English-style gardens, and 18-hole golf course. Lavish interiors: Packed with antiques and artwork from Titian, Rubens, and Gainsborough. Prime location: In the spa town of Kronberg, just 20km from Frankfurt Airport. Check dates & prices here   In the lovely old spa town of Kronberg, conveniently near Frankfurt Airport, Germany, Schlosshotel Kronberg is a beautifully evocative building, both inside and… > See All the Details & Book