Curator’s statement
Have you ever wanted to stay in a castle? Here are five castles in Europe where you can do just that.
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Where to stay in Europe
Ashford Castle
A fairytale castle on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Mayo, known for superlative service and award-winning cuisine.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Crossbasket Castle
A 17th-century castle turned into a luxurious hotel with Victorian-style design and amenities worthy of a royal.
Fora Perks
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Welcome amenity
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Castello Banfi Il Borgo, Relais & Chateaux
Castle accommodations on a hillside in Tuscany.
Fora Perks
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VIP welcome & amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Castillo de la Emperatriz Eugenia de Montijo
Your historic retreat in the heart of Toledo, where royal elegance and Spanish heritage combine for an enchanting stay in Spain.
Dragsholm Slot
Your fairytale escape on the Danish coast, where centuries of history, architectural beauty, and culinary excellence converge for a regal stay.
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Castles to stay in Europe
Ashford Castle - Ireland
Located just north of Galway, Ashford Castle dates to the 13th century. What was once a medieval fortress is now a beautiful Irish retreat set on 350 wooded acres. This incredible landmark has hosted royalty, nobility and many prominent figures. The castle boasts an award-winning spa, a beautiful cinema, luxurious rooms/suites, five restaurants and two bars.
Best time to visit Ireland: Summer
Things to do:
Falconry
Fishing
Boating
Kayaking
Lake Cruising
Horseback riding
Cycling, Clay shooting & archery
Golf and Tennis
Gardens
Guided Tours
Crossbasket Castle - Scotland
Luxury castle near glasgow. Crossbasket Castle is an exclusive Scottish retreat in central Scotland just south of Glasgow. This 17th-century castle features opulent rooms with historical furnishings and decor. Additionally, there are lodges on the estate for a more private stay. This tranquil escape is surrounded by lush woodland with nature walks, waterfalls and local wildlife to explore. The castle also offers fine dining, a lovely lounge and afternoon tea service.
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do
Golf
Explore the gardens
Take a Whiskey tour
Visit Chatelherault Country Park
Enjoy a cultural tour
Castillo de Arteaga - Spain
Castillo de Arteaga dates to the French gothic architecture of the 18th century. The castle is surrounded by cliffs, rivers, marshland and meadows. Stay in a magnificent room in the original tower (the first was built in the 15th century) with stone walls and a spiral staircase. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the castle restaurant or a wine tasting in the well-stocked cellar.
Best time to visit: Spring or Autumn
Things to do
Visit the Urdaibai Reserve
Visit the Parque de la Paz, with sculptures by Chillida and Henry Moore
Take a day tour to the Guggenheim Museum
Explore the nearby city of Balboa
See the fishing port of Bermeo or Elantxobe
Dragsholm Slot - Denmark
Set in the countryside of Odsherred, Dragsholm Slot is one of Denmark’s oldest castles, dating back more than 800 years. Over the centuries, wars have raged, aristocrats have married (in the estate's chapel) and prominent prisoners have been led across the castle courtyard. Today, Dragsholm Slot serves as a hotel with 41 double rooms and several well-known restaurants (one with Michelin stars).
Best time to visit: Summer
Things to do
Visit the museums
Stroll on the beach
Enjoy a guided tour of the castle and estate grounds
Taste wines with the castle sommelier
Archery (for groups)
Mountain biking (for groups)
Morning bathing in Sejerø Bay
Train on Outdoor Fitness course
Castello Banfi Wine Resort - Italy
Luxury 5-star hotel Ascona. Set in Montalcino amid olive groves, vineyards and rolling countryside, Castello Banfi Wine Resort is a wine lovers dream. Enjoy tasting the delicious wines and dining in luxury in this Tuscan paradise. With a history dating to the 13th century, this magnificent castle offers elegant rooms/suites, a restaurant offering Italian/Meditteranean cuisine and much more.
Best time to visit: Autumn
Things to do
Wine Tastings
Horseback Riding
Helicopter Rides
Biking and Golfing
Guided Tours
Swim in the heated pool
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Travel Advisor
Shanna Paynter
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Best Colorado Hot Springs Resorts and Hotels.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Europe.