Kilkea Castle in Ireland
Take an evening stroll through the romantic garden on your way to the ancient library, all before heading back to your hotel room.
Castles with rich histories all over the world have transformed into rentable spaces and bookable hotels, giving visitors the chance to feel like royalty while taking a break from reality.
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From romantic French chateaus to Italian castles with beautiful vineyards, we found seven castles that have been renovated into elegant hotels you have to add to your bucket list.
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Tuscany, Italy / Website
Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Tuscany, Castel Monastero is a restored medieval castle, village and monastery that exudes a feeling of elegance, history and nature. Castel Monastero features 74 rooms and suites, one villa, a spa and a restaurant. While soaking up the rustic, medieval beauty of the castle, enjoy the calming countryside and gardens that surround the royal grounds.
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Casteldormot, Ireland / Website
One of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland with a history that dates back to 1180, Kilkea Castle's mystical charm and sophistication will have you stepping into the 12th century—with all the modern conveniences of now. Located an hour from Dublin in Castledromot, the family-owned and operated castle welcomes visitors from all over the world to share in the history and beauty of the estate. The 140-bedroom resort includes multiple options from the Castle to the Carriage room, plus dining, golf courses, a luxurious spa and more.
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Mirambeau, France / Website
Built on the site of a medieval fortress, this renaissance architectural Chateau is located between two french vineyards that produce Bordeaux and Cognac. Château de Mirambeau is settled in a breathtaking location, boasts 40 rooms and suites, and features an outdoor and indoor pool, a sauna and two tennis courts. Designed with antique furnishings and elegant fabrics, you will feel fully immersed in the elite history of the château.
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Asheville, North Carolina / Website
The Vanderbilts new a thing or two about luxury, and today, their estate offers a pristine look into the Gilded Age. Since 1896, the Biltmore has given guests a masterpiece of landscape with views of the gardens,surrounding mountains and the majestic home. Sprawling across more than 8,000 acres, the Biltmore has been transformed into a hotel for guests to experience all the charm and luxury of the family's history.
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Bolton Landing, NY / Website
Located on a mountaintop of Bolton Landing, NY, the Highlands Castle is a tranquil and luxury getaway. This hidden gem overlooking Lake George is perfect for a more private getaway and still gives that medieval-yet-elegant feel. With three unique castles and suites, and terraces that offer breathtaking views, the Highlands Castle can be your fairy tale home away from home.
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Udaipur, India / Website
Constructed from 1743 through 1746, the Taj Lake Palace was transformed into a heritage hotel in 1963. It's made of marble and seems to float in the middle of Lake Pichola, creating a sight that must be seen to be believed. It has much to offer its guests, with 65 rooms and 18 grand suites, elegant restaurants, and a royal spa to make you feel on top of the world. Surrounding lakes, temples and gardens offer something to explore beyond the palace and become fully emerged in the culture.
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Paradores, Spain / Website
The Parador de Santaigo, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, represents history, art and tradition in Paradores. With illuminating cathedral-like facades, elegant rooms and magical sights, the hotel lies in a unique and exclusive location. Originally built as a royal hospital in 1499, it now shares its beauty with guests. Find it in the city's historic district.
Photography by: Bruno Sternberger/Kilkea Castle
