Castles you can stay in
These days anyone can live like a prince at a pauper’s price … well, almost.
Castle stays are a magical addition to any European holiday and it’s surprising how many there are to choose from.
Here’s a starter list from five different countries with prices that won’t blow your holiday budget but will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Germany Hotel
Castle Liebenstein
You’ll be the envy of the river cruise ships as they pass by when you stand on the balcony of Burg Liebenstein in the Rhine Valley. This small family run hotel replete with its medieval room décor has a famous history with the knights and nobles of yore. Most notable is the story of the “hostile brothers” that resulted in two castles being built to placate them.
As the highest of the castle along the Rhine, the views are naturally stunning. An added bonus here is that you can eat traditional German meals in the still intact Knights Hall.
Rooms from AUD$190
http://www.castle-liebenstein.com/
Italy
Castello di Ripa d’Orcia
The Aluffi Pentini family has owned this castle in the southern reaches of Tuscany for no less than four centuries so there’s no doubting you’re in for an authentic experience.
The family still lives in the medieval settlement at the end of a dusty road and they welcome visitors from across the globe to share their amazing home, local produce and wines and unspoilt village life.
Rooms from AUD$130
http://info1341.wixsite.com/castellodiripadorcia
Ireland
If nothing else, it’s worth visiting Blackwater Castle to walk in the footsteps of an electic history. You don’t get a much more unusual roll call than Sir Walter Raleigh, Michael Jackson Oliver Cromwell and the local Druids who all have a connection with the home of the former Viscount of Fermoy.
Blackwater is popular with groups as you can hire the whole venue but there’s also individual suites available.
Rooms from AUD$100
http://www.blackwatercastle.com/
Spain
Parador de Oropesa
Once the home of a Spanish countess, Parador de Oropesa has had a diverse history.
Dominating the medieval town of Oropesa between Madrid and Extramdura, the castle has offered refuge to monks, soldiers and aristocrats over the centuries. Today it boasts all you’ll need for a relaxing stay overlooking the Sierra de Grados mountains with a huge pool, restaurant and cellar to enjoy.
Rooms from AUD$130
http://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-oropesa
Scotland
As you’d expect, Scotland has its fair share of castles to stay and one of the most popular and affordable is Traquair which is also the country’s oldest inhabited premises. A stay here includes a tour of the house and chance to savour the House Ales produced at the brewery built in 1694. An ideal stopover if you’re heading north to Edinburgh, Traquair is technically a B&B. Make sure to check out the maze as well.
Rooms from AUD $140
Published under license from Well Travelled.
