There’s nothing more romantic than staying overnight in a fairytale castle, surrounded by the picturesque countryside where you can marvel at stone arches and ornate details and enjoy luxury service and amenities. Offering the perfect ambiance for a romantic getaway with the one you love, Europe boasts an array of majestic castles that have been transformed into hotels. Imagine what it was like to live like nobility centuries ago by booking a stay in one of the most romantic castle hotels in Europe.
Ashford Castle: Cong, Ireland
Set on a 350-acre property, Ashford Castle offers five-star luxury and stunning views of the dazzling blue waters of Lough Corrib. The castle dates back to 1228 and offers an array of activities for a romantic getaway, from horseback riding to lake cruising, fishing and golf. You can pamper yourself in the indulgent spa or dine on gourmet fare at the George V and Connaught Room Restaurants before resting your head in one of the 82 luxurious rooms with old-fashioned grandeur.
Castle Mönchstein: Salzburg, Austria
Offering panoramic views of Salzburg, Castle Mönchstein is a historic castle hotel boasts 24 spacious rooms and suites that feature antique decor with crystal chandeliers, flat-screen TVs and some with private terraces. You’ll have plenty of places to unwind, from the infinity pool to the hot tub and spa, while all guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace with its fireplace, bar and restaurant and the option to have an intimate dinner in the tower spire.
Castello delle Quattro Torra: Siena, Italy
Located just a short drive from Siena, Castello delle Quattro Torra is a family-run bed and breakfast. Enjoy its intimate ambiance with only three rooms, where you’ll be captivated by the charming decor with red-brick walls, terracotta floors and cross-beam ceilings, but the biggest draw is its location on a hilltop surrounded by rural landscapes. Enjoy a free breakfast every morning, snuggle up with a book in the reading room or take a 45-minute scenic hike to Siena.
Lough Eske Castle, a Solis Hotel & Spa: Donegal, Ireland
A luxurious castle hotel that sits on the shores of its namesake lake, Lough Eske Castle, a Solis Hotel & Spa is surrounded by lush landscapes and green gardens. It is a perfect place for a countryside retreat, where you can enjoy massages in the spa housed in a Victorian Glass House, a dip in the infinity pool or fresh seafood in the on-site restaurant. Spacious rooms boast luxurious bathrooms with walk-in showers and soaking tubs, while suites also have larger living room areas.
Swinton Park Country Club and Spa: Ripon, England
Marvel at the ivy-covered Swinton Park castle with a stay at this luxurious hotel, as you’ll be surrounded by 200 acres of beautiful grounds with roaming reindeer and swans. Pick from 31 rooms at this country estate to discover antique furnishings, stone fireplaces and oil paintings while modern comforts include flat-screen TVs and designer toiletries. Enjoy the large kitchen garden, see the aviary of birds or sign up for the cooking school before relaxing in the lovely spa.
Castello Vicchiomaggio: Greve in Chianti, Italy
Perfect for a romantic escape in the Tuscan countryside, Castello Vicchiomaggio is a 10-minute drive from the village of Greve in the Chianti area. If you’re a wine-loving couple you’re in luck, as the property produces wine on-site. Take a tour of the wine-production area in the cellar, sample the wines and have a four-course Tuscan dinner paired with some of their delicious wines. When you need to unwind, soak up your countryside surroundings with a swim in the infinity pool.
Fonab Castle Hotel: Pitlochry, Scotland
Nestled on the scenic shores of Loch Faskally, Fonab Castle Hotel was built in 1892 and offers the perfect escape for two. Enjoy the contemporary interiors in the cozy lounge and two on-site restaurants, where you can indulge in fine-dining cuisine with a multi-course gourmet. Book a massage for two in the chic spa with a sauna, steam room and pool, then relax in one of the upscale rooms and suites located in the main castle or the vaulted-ceiling penthouse.
Ballygally Castle: Ballygally, Northern Ireland
Located right on the Antrim Coast overlooking the Irish Sea, Ballygally Castle offers a romantic ambiance housed in a 17th-century building in Northern Ireland. While it’s become famous for its friendly resident ghost, couples can enjoy its charming character and modern conveniences throughout its 54 guest rooms. You can soak up views of the landscaped gardens and sea from your room, then enjoy traditional afternoon tea and Game of Thrones-related activities.
Pousada de Óbidos: Óbidos, Portugal
Set within the city walls of Óbidos, Pousada de Óbidos is one of Portugal’s finest castle hotels. You’ll only find nine rooms at this historic Portuguese hotel, where you can marvel at 9th-century medieval features, sip on wine in the Castelo bar and explore the impressive esplanade. Its suites offer a unique experience with traditional tiles and fireplaces, where you can step outside to explore the history and charm of the small city.
Abbaye de la Bussière: Burgundy, France
Soak up the tranquil ambiance in the romantic Abbaye de la Bussière castle in Burgundy, France. This former monastery dates back to the 12th century and is nestled on 14 acres of stunning Burgundian parkland. Step inside to discover dramatic vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows and a sweeping staircase, where rooms feature large bathrooms with a Jacuzzi and are adorned with antique furniture and luxurious fabrics. You can explore nearby abbeys and historic landmarks or indulge in famous wines from picturesque wineries.
