From fairytale hideaways in the Scottish Highlands to fortresses in France and towering turrets in Austria, these are the best castle hotels in the world.
Is there anything more whimsical than residing within the walls of a historic castle? These days, castle hotels are set within lush and sprawling estates, framed by manicured gardens and accompanied by indulgent spas and Michelin-worthy restaurants. Carefully restored and artfully presented, these properties offer classic genteel pastimes, from archery, fishing and falconry to horse riding, boating and hiking. If you’re ready to swap bustling city escapes for secluded estates steeped in centuries of history, these properties are the best places to go.
Castle hotels in England
Amberley Castle | West Sussex
One of the most luxurious castle hotels in England, Amberley Castle is nestled within the South Downs and boasts a history dating back over 900 years. Prior to its transformation into an exclusive hotel in 1989, Amberley Castle was a timber hunting lodge built in 1103 by Bishop Luffa, then evolved into a fortified manor complete with battlements and a portcullis. The property was even a royalist stronghold during the Civil War, until its defences were partially dismantled by Cromwell’s forces in 1643. Today, Amberley Castle is synonymous with refined English hospitality. Guests can dine in the Queen’s Room and gaze upon its 12th-century vaulted ceiling, or in the Great Room, a Norman masterpiece from 1165 adorned with lancet windows, oak floors and suits of armour.
Leeds Castle | Kent
Discover 900 years of English history with a stay at Leeds Castle, a lakeside retreat once graced by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Winston Churchill and even Charlie Chaplin. Available on select open dates, guests can stay in the elegant 14th-century Battel Hall or the period-style Maiden’s Tower. Wander through manicured gardens, explore the Dog Collar Museum and Birds of Prey Centre, or take in a falconry display. The estate also features a historic nine-hole golf course, designed in 1931 by Sir Guy Campbell. With opulent rooms and timeless Tudor charm, it’s the epitome of English country living.
Cliveden House | Berkshire
Located a leisurely one-hour drive from London,Cliveden House is a beautiful country retreat famed for hosting England’s aristocracy since 1666, when it was built by the second Duke of Buckingham for his mistress. Now a five-star hotel, it remains the setting for glamorous celebrations and elevated escapes for discerning clientele. Guests enjoy access to the Cliveden Club, spa, pool, gym and tennis courts, and while away days with traditional pursuits such as clay pigeon shooting, falconry, archery, axe throwing and foraging for wild mushrooms and berries. Drift along the Thames aboard a private vintage boat with Laurent-Perrier in hand, then dine in style at the Cliveden Dining Room, the Astor Grill, or with a traditional high tea.
Castle Hotels in Scotland
Inverlochy Castle Hotel | Fort William
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle Hotel, A Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, is a 19th-century gem imbued with gothic beauty. To ensure an authentic experience, opt to stay in one of the castle suites and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Lochaber. Hike, fish or tee off on an 18-hole course at the mountain’s base, or explore from Glencoe to Skye on a day tour arranged by the smiling staff. Then, return to the Scottish Baronial castle for afternoon tea or feast upon the refined flavours of Seasgair by Michel Roux Jr. at the Mary Shaw Table dining experience.
Tulloch Castle | Dingwall
Hidden away in the Scottish Highlands, Tulloch Castle is a 12th-century estate and the ancestral seat of the Bain (Bayne) lairds of the 16th century. After careful restoration and modernisation, Tulloch Castle is now one of loveliest castle hotels in Scotland, showcasing original fireplaces, ornate ceilings and a 250-year-old panelled Great Hall. For a refined stay, the Oak Suite offers traditional elegance with rich palettes and classic furnishings. Pets are welcome, making it ideal for a sophisticated yet relaxed getaway for the entire family. Savour Highland cuisine at Turrets Restaurant or enjoy a dram by the fire in the Green Lady Bar.
Crossbasket Castle | Lanarkshire
Tucked away in Lanarkshire near Glasgow, Crossbasket Castle is a 17th-century landmark lovingly restored into one of Scotland’s most luxurious castle hotels. Crossbasket Castle is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collective and delivers charm in spades. Babbling brooks, crisp gardens and picturesque woodlands surround the sprawling estate, which boasts a relaxing spa and fine dining at Trocadero’s restaurant, where the menu is guided by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux.
Castle hotels in Ireland
Adare Manor | Limerick
The story of Adare Manor starts in the 12th century and passes through many hands, but the grand estate we know today is a 19th-century feat framed by 840 acres of pristine parkland. Offering characterful interiors comprising wood panelling, rich palettes and open fireplaces, the property balances the old with the new, replete with a spa and private cinema. Guests can fill their bellies at the Michelin-starred Oak Room, enjoy an elegant afternoon tea, or try their hand at archery, falconry, shooting and golf.
Ashford Castle | Cong
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic castle hotels in Ireland, Ashford Castle is a five-star property with expansive views over Lough Corrib. Set within the heart of a 350-acre estate and steeped in 800 years of history, the castle comprises 83 individually styled rooms and suites, including a secluded boathouse stay. Ashford Castle offers refined country pursuits such as horse riding, falconry, fishing and shooting, alongside golf and cycling. Should gastronomy pique your interest, only the finest highland produce is plated at the George V Dining Room. Alternatively, sample relaxed fare at Cullen’s at the Cottage or sip afternoon tea in the Connaught Room.
Dromoland Castle | Newmarket on Fergus
A magnificent 16th-century estate set amidst 500 acres of Irish parklands and woodlands in County Clare, Dromoland Castle is the ancestral home of the O’Briens and the seat of Ireland’s last High King, Brian Boru. Days are filled with authentic pursuits, from clay pigeon shooting and archery to boating, falconry and fishing. The elegant suites and staterooms provide exemplary comfort, while the acclaimed Castle Spa – winner of multiple World Luxury Spa Awards – offers indulgent treatments administered using products from Dr. Barbara Sturm, Seabody and OSKIA. Golf enthusiasts can putt their stuff on a championship course designed by Ron Kirby and JB Carr, spanning more than 6,800 yards.
Luttrellstown Castle Resort | Castleknock
It’s hard to believe this distinguished 15th-century estate is just a hop, skip and a jump from Dublin, yet Luttrelstown Castle Resort stands resplendent with 567 acres of lush private parkland. Known to be one of Ireland’s premier castle hotels, the property boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, expertly crafted by Donald Steel and Tom MacKenzie, complete with mature parklands, links-style bunkers and challenging water hazards. A wealth of activities are on offer, from falconry, archery and fishing to leisurely bike rides and scenic woodland walks. With 20 unique castle guest rooms, two bars, a refined restaurant, and a charming terrace, Luttrellstown offers a seamless blend of heritage and contemporary luxury.
Best castle hotels in Europe
Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron | Salzburg, Austria
With a tranquil lake on its doorstep, breathtaking views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the majestic Untersberg, Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron is the finest of castle hotels. Built in 1736 and framed by 17 acres of impeccably manicured grounds, this former palace offers 55 elegant rooms and 12 refined suites, just moments from Old Town Salzburg. Guests break their fast in the opulent Marble Hall, while the palace’s superior and premium suites (once home to Max Reinhardt) offer splendid vistas over the lake and gardens. The grounds themselves are a spectacle: grand parterre lawns adorned with sculptures, fountains and vases, leading to a historic open-air theatre with trellised walls and a dedicated orchestra pit.
Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel | Tuscany
Hidden away in the heartlands of Tuscany, Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel has roots reaching back 2,500 years to the Etruscan civilisation. Once a playground for Hollywood’s elite, the medieval castle has been meticulously restored using reclaimed terracotta, ceramic tiles and timber. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and a private game reserve, guests can enjoy wine, play tennis, join hunting excursions or rejuvenate at the Essere Spa, or simply relax by the pool.
Château de Mirambeau | Bordeaux, France
An 11th-century fortress once stood upon the grounds of Château de Mirambeau, but after enduring sieges, fires and a series of masters, a Neo-Gothic revival was built in its place in 1570. Completely reconstructed against in the early 19th century, Château de Mirambeau was reborn as a Relais & Châteaux five-star hotel in 2002. Standing proud among the vines of France’s famed Bordeaux region, the estate supplies 40 opulent rooms and suites adorned with antique furnishings, rich fabrics and marble bathrooms, including 18 rooms housed in the charming Orangerie. Guests enjoy access to a spa with two pools, hammam, sauna and first-class beauty treatments, while the acclaimed restaurant serves refined cuisine crafted from regional produce. For a quintessentially Bordeaux experience, the château’s dedicated Cognathèque offers expert-led wine and cognac tastings.
Château Herálec | Havlíčkova Brodu, Czech Republic
Those seeking a romantic escape should look no further than Château Herálec, a masterfully restored 13th-century landmark in Bohemia. Blending history with art to produce a charming five-star boutique accommodation experience, each of the rooms are named for the castle’s former owners or after artworks from the Regional Gallery of the Highlands. Guests can restore equilibrium between mind, body and soul with L’Occitane spa treatments, or sweat out negativity in one of the many saunas, ranging from Finnish to infrared and herbal. A swimming pool, castle silencarium, a herbarium and fitness centre round out the wellness selection. The Honoria restaurant, set in the oldest wing of the château, reimagines classic Czech cuisine using the finest local ingredients.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa | Vence, France
Positioned above the French Riviera, just 15 km from Nice International Airport, Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a historic estate with a fascinating story. Originally a Roman fortification, later the home of Saint Martin of Tours (a 4th-century bishop and saint), then bestowed upon the Crusaders before becoming the 12th-century stronghold of the Knights Templar, the castle was left to ruin until the 20th century. A Polish count purchased the property and partially rebuilt it, then sold it to a Parisian industrialist in 1935 who turned it into a hotel in 1954. Today, the fairytale structure offers discerning guests a rare blend of heritage and indulgence, with six private villas, four refined dining venues, a world-class spa, pool, manicured gardens and courts for tennis and pickleball. Among Europe’s most distinguished castle hotels, Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a sanctuary of history.
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl | Salzburg, Austria
Standing on the shores of Lake Fuschl and encircled by forested peaks, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is a historic retreat recently reimagined and reopened in 2024. Offering 98 accommodations, including 42 suites and six lakefront chalets, guests can satiate their cravings at one of the six restaurants and bars, all of which showcase locally sourced ingredients and a carefully curated wine selection. The Asaya Spa provides an exceptional wellness experience, featuring winter ice infusions, Aufguss rituals, ice swimming, yoga, botanical walks and personalised therapies all designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Reschio Hotel | Umbria
Set within 1,500 hectares of unspoiled Umbrian countryside, Reschio Hotel is a thousand-year-old estate reimagined as one of Italy’s most refined castle hotels. With just 36 exquisitely designed rooms, vaulted ceilings and tranquil courtyards, the atmosphere is one of understated elegance. Guests can enjoy truffle hunting, wine tastings, horse riding, artisan workshops or simply unwind in the Library, Palm Court Bar or saltwater pool. Dining is a highlight, with seasonal, foraged produce served at the refined Ristorante Al Castello and relaxed Alle Scuderie.
COMO Castello Del Nero | Tuscany, Italy
Found in Tuscany’s famed Chianti region, COMO Castello Del Nero is a refined twelfth-century retreat with new interiors executed by Milanese designer Paola Navone. Original Renaissance frescoes from the 18th century appear throughout the property, including in some of the spacious and sophisticated guest rooms and suites. Recognised with a Michelin Key in 2024, the hotel is surrounded by sweeping views of cypress-lined hills, and guests enjoy daily wellness sessions and access to COMO Shambhala’s spa facilities, including the fitness centre, sauna, steam room, and indoor and outdoor thermal pools. And, with a complimentary shuttle ferrying guests to Florence and Siena, COMO Castello Del Nero is a perfectly poised escape in the Tuscan countryside.
Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg | Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
Once a stately hunting lodge, the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg is now one of Germany’s leading castle hotels. Boasting panoramic views over Bergisches Land while remaining conveniently close to Cologne and Düsseldorf, this five-star haven is renowned for its Michelin-starred dining at the acclaimed three-star Vendôme restaurant by Joachim Wissler, one of Germany’s foremost chefs. The ‘4 elements’ spa by Althoff is another major drawcard, providing visitors a variety of therapies, including NSTITUT UNIQ – a collaboration with renowned surgeons Dr Dirk F. Richter and Dr Maria Wiedner – known for their world-class aesthetic treatments.
Cap Rocat | Mallorca, Spain
Cap Rocat borders a crystalline coastline of marine meadows and lush pine forests in the Spanish Bay of Palma. Set atop the historic 19th-century fortress of Cap Enderrocat, the adults-only boutique hotel has reimagined bunkers and shooting buttresses into resplendent rooms. Cap Rocat’s crowning jewel is a decadent spa carved into the heart of the fortress, designed to harness natural light despite its 12-metre depth below ground.
Château de Mirwart | Saint-Hubert, Belgium
Tucked within 1,350 hectares of forest in the village of Mirwart, Château de Mirwart first appeared in history books as a stronghold in 955. A turbulent history saw the property rebuilt several times, until it took its current for in the early 18th century. Now reimagined as one of Belgium’s most exclusive castle hotels, it has 20 premium suites and rooms showcasing a harmonious blend of natural materials, neutral tones and contemporary design. Guests dine across two sophisticated venues, L’Écrin de Mirwart and Bistrot de la Lomme, making this forested estate a discreet and distinguished destination for the discerning traveller.
FAQs
What is a castle hotel?
A castle hotel is defined as such when it meets a selection of criteria addressing historic significance and authenticity; preservation of original features and structures; and the level of hospitality provided to guests. Generally, the building must have verifiable origins as a genuine castle or fortress (usually dating back more than a century), and have served as a residence to royalty or nobility, or as a religious seat of power or stronghold. The original character of the castle (such as interior and exterior architectural features) must be preserved and/or restored. The property must also hold some cultural or national importance, such as being listed as a historic monument.
Where can I stay in a castle in Europe?
Almost all regions of Europe have a castle of some sort within their borders, though such structures are rarely seen in Baltic and Nordic countries or southeastern Europe. Castle hotels typically abound in nations whose histories are long, medieval or feudal. Travellers seeking to stay in castle hotels will find a fantastic selection in France, Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Czech Republic, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Belgium. There are fewer, though still a range, found in the Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, Hungary and Romania.
What is the best castle in Ireland to stay in?
It comes down to the toss of a coin as to whether Ashford Castle or Adare Manor takes out the top spot as the best castle in Ireland to stay in. Both are beautiful, steeped in centuries of history and offer guests plentiful genteel pursuits for an authentic Irish countryside experience – though Ashford Castle does afford visitors a stay framed by water, and Adare Manor has an 18-hole golf course versus the former’s nine.
Where is the best place to go to see castles?
Germany has the most castles of any European country, and is home to the famous Disney-esque Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, the medieval Heidelberg Castle and the imposing Eltz Castle.
Is it worth staying in a castle in Scotland?
Step outside Scotland’s city limits and into the rolling hills of the Highlands, where castles overlook lochs, peaks and sprawling woodlands. To stay in a castle in Scotland is to step back in time when falconry, archery and game hunting were the pastimes of the aristocracy. The scenery is breathtaking and the pace of life is slow, allowing guests to soak in an authentic experience, from hearty meals and warm hospitality to the traditional (yet undeniably plush) interiors and immersion in nature.
Read more:
25 dreamy château hotels in France
50 best hotels in the world: Signature Selects
The world’s 32 most beautiful hotels
Live like a 17th-century Japanese ruler with a stay at Ozu Castle
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