When we travel-obsessed ones venture out, we genuinely expect nothing less than oodles of luxury, royalty and pampering! I mean why else would one splurge thousands of dollars on a holiday right?! While the luxurious islands of Maldives offer over-water villas and the plains of Africa propose fancy tent accommodation, we still prefer the luxury of castles! The prestige and experience within the walls of one are like none other! These days’ staying in a castle is far from the ancient era, I mean we’re talking elaborate spa treatments and outdoor swimming pools!
We’re not that surprised that 8 of these castles have found home in Europe. With its fine heritage, striking beauty and intriguing history, most castle hoppers would most likely opt for landscape of Europe.
Based on the reviews and rankings of millions of TripAdvisor users, here are the 9 best castle hotels in the world.
9. Ashford Castle – Cong, Ireland
With stunning views of Lough Corrib and the lush green lawns, the 1228-built castle entails 82 rooms. Considering it’s a castle, you only imagine what the rooms are like. Elegant and tastefully made, entailing antique rosewood furniture, custom carpets and bespoke beds, with Egyptian cotton linens. Dated way back to the 13th century, this massive flamboyant castle resembles a romantic Irish castle and has had the privilege of hosting the likes of President Reagan, John Travolta, Brad Pitt, and Pierce Brosnan—who got married here. At an average rate of $270, we’d definitely recommend this hotel!
8. Chateau Heralec – Boutique Hotel & Spa by L’OCCITANE – Heralec, Czech Republic
Finding a beautiful spot in the heart of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands of the Czech Republic, this castle, dated back to the 13th century encompasses 20 luxurious rooms. The one we have heard a lot about is the King’s suite – and of course you can only imagine this is the largest one! Coined in honour of one of the most prestigious Czech families, the suite is simply majestic. Think wooden ceilings, mosaic floors and a handcrafted mirror. What we loved is the contemporary decor and striking restoration. Especially worth a visit since the average price per night is $219.
7. Castle in Clarens – Clarens, South Africa
The only castle that has made it to this list outside Europe, the Castle in Clarens is fondly known as “Rapunzel’s Tower”; well with good reason. If you gaze high enough, you can spot the Princess’ bedroom right on the top floor entailing a fine four poster bed and a medieval stone bath. If you are one of those seeking your typical fairy-tale experience, we’d definitely recommend this one. While the three storey castle features a lounge and the Prince’s bedroom on the ground floor, the middle floor encompasses a kitchen (with breakfast on request of course). The average rate is $155.
6. Rowton Castle – Shropshire, England
Set within 17 acres of lush-green landscapes, the Rowton Castle dates back to the 17th century. While all rooms have a contemporary feel with modern decor, we still preferred the ones entailing four-poster beds and hydrotherapy baths. Set in an oak-panelled dining room with velvet furnishings, the award-winning Cedar Restaurant is definitely worth visiting. Travellers are invited to stay in one of 19 lavish guest rooms that offer jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding gardens. The average rate is $124.
5. Castello di Monterone, Perugia, Italy
A military headquarter by birth, Castello di Monterone is a place of peace and hospitality. Set upon a hill overlooking the green valley between Assisi and Perugia, Castello Di Monterone takes its name from the area where it stands. The first reference to the castle was discovered in Perugia’s historic archives in a document dating back to the 13th-century. What we loved is the spa and the Turkish bath. Evenings can be spent relaxing under the stars and enjoying the city lights of Perugia’s ancient skyline. Especially worth a visit since the average price per night is $135.
4. Castello di Petroia, Gubbio, Italy
Yet another hidden gem lost in the beauty of Italy is the Castello di Petroia. Well for one, the front gate is locked; you ring to be let in. The bedrooms entail beeswax polished floors and shadowy corners, aristocratic furniture and elegant beds, the swishest with hydromassage baths. (Ask for bathside strawberries and cream for the ultimate romantic escape!). The castle is set on a hillock surrounded by pines in beautiful unpopulated countryside with a marked footpath running through it. Walk to Assissi – it takes a day – then taxi back. Reserve a room at $153 a night.
3. Hotel Castello di Sinio, Sinio, Italy
Set in a renovated castle dating back to 1142, it is located between the Barolo and Barbaresco vineyards. With floral gardens and a beautiful swimming pool, its period décor is highlighted by the original stone, timbers, and terracotta floors. A family-run hotel at heart, the restaurant at the hotel serves some spectacular Piedmont cuisine paired with an extensive wine list. The fact that there are as many windows in this ancient stone edifice for the 18 guest rooms is remarkable in itself. Reserve a room at $260 a night.
2. Castle Hotel Auf Schoenburg, Oberwesel, Germany
The history itself of this castle hotel amuses you. A castle later restored by the Hüttl family, was burned down by French soldiers in the 1689. A middle aged romantic castle, built in the 10th century is one of the most expressive German castles on the Rhine River. The façade is a fairy tale picture of towers and battlements reached by crossing a narrow wooden bridge. Many of the original features, the stone walls and pillars, archways and old beams have been carefully restored. Dish out barely $174 to stay here.
1. Fonab Castle Hotel, Pitlochry, Scotland
Truth to be told, this 26-room castle hotel has already established itself as one of the finer castle hotels in the world. Set by a loch in Highland Pertshire, this hotel is set well within the heart of Scotland. Each individually designed room has been decorated sympathetically to blend a contemporary style with the original room features. What’s popular is the scrumptious 7 course menu at the Sandemans fine dining! Here you may be dishing out an average of $378 a night.
