The 15 Best Castle Hotels for Your Next Fairytale Getaway

Set on 350 lakeside acres in the Irish countryside, Ashford Castle is the definition of grandeur. Dating back to 1228, this impeccably restored estate offers a five-star experience wrapped in historic splendor. Think stained-glass windows, chandeliers, and clawfoot bathtubs, plus activities like falconry, horseback riding, and boating on Lough Corrib. Every room is uniquely designed with antique furnishings and silk-lined walls, while the spa—set in a former conservatory—feels like a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Once home to the Guinness family, Ashford now plays host to travelers seeking timeless elegance in a fairytale setting.

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This neoclassical gem in the Loire Valley is less a hotel, more an 18th-century dream realized. Originally built for a nobleman of Louis XV’s court, Château du Grand-Lucé blends aristocratic charm with modern refinement. Think Versailles-worthy gardens, salons dripping in original boiserie, and suites outfitted with plush fabrics and curated antiques. The château’s grandeur is balanced by impeccable service and an air of effortless French glamour. Guests can lounge by the orangerie-style pool, enjoy a private dinner in the mirrored ballroom, or simply stroll the formal gardens, glass of Sancerre in hand.

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Tucked away in a pristine alpine valley near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Schloss Elmau is a castle reimagined for the discerning modern traveler. This historic retreat offers two five-star hotels on one sprawling property—each with panoramic mountain views and understated elegance. Expect world-class spa facilities, Michelin-starred dining, and a robust cultural program featuring classical concerts and literary readings. The juxtaposition of old-world architecture and sleek interiors creates a rare harmony, while the surrounding nature provides both serenity and inspiration. It’s no wonder global leaders chose it as a G7 summit location—it’s peaceful, luxurious, and quietly spectacular.

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Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle delivers Scottish romance at its most refined. Built in the 19th century and beloved by Queen Victoria, this baronial mansion now operates as a Relais & Châteaux hotel. Each of its 17 rooms is individually decorated with period furnishings and offers views of serene lochs or sweeping Highland landscapes. The fine-dining restaurant, overseen by Albert Roux’s legacy, is a destination in its own right. Whether you’re sipping whisky by the fire or exploring nearby glens, Inverlochy is the perfect blend of heritage and high luxury.

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Once a crumbling 10th-century fortress, Castello di Reschio has been transformed into a design-forward estate that marries rustic history with high style. Set among the rolling hills of Umbria, the castle is now a boutique hotel where stone walls meet custom Italian furnishings and curated art collections. Suites feature soaring ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, and terrazzo bathrooms that rival any Milan showroom. Beyond the interiors, you’ll find a Roman-inspired spa, horseback riding trails, and organic gardens supplying the property’s chic trattoria. Reschio doesn’t just offer an escape—it delivers a masterclass in Italian elegance.

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Nestled in the heart of the Beaujolais wine region, Château de Bagnols is the epitome of French medieval elegance. Built in the 13th century, this stunning property has been meticulously restored to offer a blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury. With its impressive stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and ornate tapestries, the château exudes old-world charm. Each suite is a serene haven, combining antique furnishings with contemporary comforts. Guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining, unwind by the pool, or explore the surrounding vineyards. Château de Bagnols is where history and indulgence meet in perfect harmony.

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Set along the shores of picturesque Lake Fuschl in the Austrian Alps, Hotel Schloss Fuschl is a regal lakeside retreat dating back to the 15th century. Its setting—surrounded by forests and sparkling waters—feels like something out of a dream. The castle’s opulent interiors are steeped in history, with gilded chandeliers and sumptuous fabrics that recall the days of European royalty. Guests can unwind at the lakeside spa, dine in the elegant restaurant, or sail across the lake in a private boat. For a getaway that combines relaxation, beauty, and aristocratic elegance, Schloss Fuschl is unmatched.

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Housed within a 14th-century castle, Parador de Oropesa is a charming retreat that blends Spanish history with modern luxury. Situated in the picturesque province of Toledo, this beautifully restored fortress offers sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Its stone-clad rooms are decorated in classical Spanish style, with rich fabrics, exposed beams, and antique furnishings that evoke the region’s noble heritage. The hotel’s refined atmosphere extends to the on-site restaurant, which serves delectable regional dishes. Whether strolling the castle’s grounds or soaking in the panoramic views, Parador de Oropesa promises a peaceful, unforgettable stay.

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Dromoland Castle, set on 450 acres of pristine parkland in County Clare, Ireland, is a resplendent example of 16th-century Irish heritage. This grand castle, with its soaring turrets and lush gardens, invites guests to experience a life of luxury once reserved for nobility. The interiors are equally stunning, with richly decorated rooms, ornate ceilings, and antique furnishings. Dromoland offers unparalleled service, with an 18-hole championship golf course, falconry, and a tranquil spa. Whether sipping Irish whiskey by a roaring fire or exploring the estate’s woodlands, Dromoland Castle delivers a regal experience in every sense.

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A symbol of American opulence, Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned house in the U.S., set against the dramatic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Built in the 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II, the mansion boasts 250 rooms, acres of formal gardens, and an extensive art collection. Guests can explore the estate’s historic grounds, dine in elegant surroundings, and stay in the nearby inn. The estate’s wine cellar is another major highlight, offering tastings of locally produced vintages. Biltmore is not just a castle; it’s a grand American institution that blends history with hospitality.

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Perched above the St. Lawrence River in Quebec City, Fairmont Château Frontenac is one of the most iconic castles in North America. This grand château, designed in the style of a French château, dates back to 1893 and dominates the skyline with its steep copper roof and turrets. Inside, the opulent rooms boast rich wood paneling, plush furnishings, and sweeping city views. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining at the hotel’s renowned restaurants or enjoy a spa day. With its historic charm and modern amenities, Château Frontenac offers an unforgettable stay in the heart of Quebec’s Old Town.

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For a refined escape amidst rolling Tuscan hills, Castello Banfi Il Borgo is the pinnacle of Italian charm. Nestled in the heart of Italy’s famed wine country, this 13th-century castle is a dream for wine lovers and lovers of luxury alike. The meticulously restored property offers elegant suites, many with panoramic vineyard views. Guests can explore the sprawling grounds, enjoy private wine tastings, or relax in the spa, where treatments incorporate local ingredients. The onsite restaurant serves Tuscan delicacies alongside the estate’s renowned wines, making it an idyllic getaway for those seeking indulgence in Italy’s most beautiful region.

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Schlosshotel Fiss is a chic fusion of medieval elegance and contemporary Alpine luxury. Located in the Tyrolean Alps, this 5-star castle hotel is renowned for its ski-in, ski-out access and spectacular mountain views. The interiors combine rich, traditional elements like wooden beams and luxurious finishes with sleek, modern design. The hotel’s spa, which features an infinity pool overlooking the snow-capped peaks, is the ultimate in relaxation. Guests can dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, explore the surrounding mountains, or unwind in one of the many refined lounges. Schlosshotel Fiss is the perfect balance of adventure and elegance.

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While not a traditional castle, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa occupies one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in England, exuding regal charm and luxury. Set within an 18th-century Georgian crescent in the heart of Bath, the hotel’s sweeping architecture and verdant gardens offer an aristocratic retreat. Inside, guests are treated to refined rooms with classic British style—think luxurious fabrics, antique furnishings, and soothing tones. The hotel’s spa, housed in a former coach house, provides a sanctuary of relaxation, while the nearby Roman baths and historic sites complete the experience, ensuring a stay fit for royalty.

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Château de la Couronne, located just outside Windsor, is an enchanting hideaway with an undeniable connection to British history. The property blends Victorian grandeur with an inviting charm, offering a perfect blend of comfort and heritage. The rooms are furnished with an elegant mix of antique and contemporary pieces, and the charming courtyard and gardens offer a peaceful escape from the bustling world. Guests can unwind with a traditional afternoon tea or take a short drive to explore the famed Windsor Castle. Château de la Couronne promises a stay where history, luxury, and timeless beauty come together seamlessly.

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