Admit it. We’ve all had that moment where we wonder when our real mom and dad, the king and queen of some foreign Royal Land, will whisk us off to live in some fancy castle. While you come back down to reality, we’ll entertain you with these 5 castle hotels from around the world that you can actually stay in.
1. Swinton Park, UK
Built in the late 17th century, Swinton Park in Ripon is the ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family, the “Earls of Swinton.” The castle itself is a Grade II* listed building (meaning it’s a particularly important building of more than just special interest). Still owned by the family, it was only turned into a luxury, 32-bedroom castle hotel in 2001. Indulge in the simple pleasures of country life by exploring the stunning 200-acre parkland and grounds of the estate. There are English gardens to stroll in, and of course all the beauty of the North Yorkshire landscape to admire.
2. Château de Bagnols, France
Located in the heart of the Beaujolais vineyards in eastern France, Château de Bagnols is a Medieval castle with all the classic elements like fortifications, moat and drawbridge. Constructed in the 13th century, the château has a rich history, with past visitors including the French King Charles VIII in 1490. In 1992 it was turned into a hotel, meaning you now have the chance to walk the same halls once graced by royalty. Known as one of the best castle hotels, the now 5-star establishment has 22 unique suites of different themes, along with modern touches like a swimming pool, gym and other facilities.
3. Ashford Castle, Ireland
The oldest castle hotel in Ireland, Ashford Castle was built by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family in 1228. Over its nearly eight centuries of history, the castle has passed through several families including the famous Guinness clan. Located on the banks of Lough Corrib, the second largest lake in Ireland, the castle looks straight out of a fantasy novel with turrets, fortifications and a stunning 345-acre wooded parkland. Inside you’ll find enough lavish crystal chandeliers and Medieval armour to keep your dreams of nobility alive for the duration of your stay.
4. Hotel Burg Wernberg, Germany
Situated on a picturesque hill overlooking the small town of Wernberg-Köblitz in southeastern Germany, this Gothic castle dates back to the 12th century and was converted into a hotel in 1953. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Bavarian countryside, relax in nature, or hke in the Bavarian Forest Reserve. Culture is in easy reach with Prague, Munich and Nuremberg all within driving distance. Back at the castle, savor local delicacies in its first-class gourmet hotel restaurant, headed by a Michelin-starred chef.
5. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Canada
Located on the north bank of Saint Lawrence River in Quebec City, Château Frontenac lies at the heart of the city’s Old Town. Originally built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, it is the most photographed hotel in the world. It is also the filming location of 2016 popular K-drama ‘Goblin’ as well as Hitchcock’s classic film I Confess. Besides being photogenic both on the inside and out, the hotel has also played host to some significant guests including Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt. They met here in 1943 to plan strategies during World War II.
