Castles have long been home to the royalty of the world. They are fortresses that have survived centuries with various design, architecture and features. What once were reserved for the noble are now available for your next getaway! Whether you prefer the rolling hills of Scotland or the mountains of North Carolina, these are just a few of our favorite castle escapes for your next vacation.
Castello di Ripa d’Orcia
Tucked away on an Italian hilltop just off the main road, this 13th-century castle immediately brings you back to the 1400s. Family-owned and operated, Castello di Ripa d’Orcia has been virtually unchanged in its architecture throughout its history. Its sprawling vineyards and olive orchards provide guests with some of the best wines straight to your table. As a special treat, we recommend taking home your very own bottle of vinsanto. It is made right on the grounds from the family’s very own white grapes. You are welcome to relax in the gardens, take in the open-air swimming pool, experience authentic wine tasting or just simply explore the countryside. Guests have their pick of Castello’s guest rooms or self-catering apartments. For more information about booking a room of your own, visit their website HERE.
Talabgaon Castle
Originally built as a fort in 1818, Talabgaon Castle remains under the same ownership today. Located in the heart of Rajasthan, this Indian fortress is made up of 26 rooms, polo grounds and swimming pools. Looking for adventure? Book a safari through Ranthambore National Park to catch a glimpse of the tigers or take a camel safari through the desert. With a variety of room options to choose from, guests have access to the concierge service as well along with their own personal room service. The castle also hires local residents to provide job opportunities throughout the company. To book a room at Talabgaon Castle, visit their website HERE.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel
This Scottish red stone castle dates back to the 13th century and is now the country’s oldest inhabited castle. With many parts of the original architecture still in place, you can even see the old parapets through which defenders threw boiling oil down onto the intruders. Some of its remaining features include a wood-panel library, barrel-vaulted dungeon and 500-year-old well. Its falconry is also a popular sight which houses a variety of birds such as hawks, eagles, owls and falcons. Guests can even try their hand at archery or visit the spa for a relaxing day of massages, facials and other treatments. Dalhousie Castle also has no shortage of nearby activities including Rosslyn Chapel, climbing the extinct Arthur’s Seat volcano, horseback riding and golfing. To book a room or view their current offers, visit their visit HERE.
The Biltmore
Built by George Vanderbilt in 1895, the Biltmore holds 250 rooms, a banquet hall, indoor pool, bowling alley and 10,000 book library. This 8,000-acre estate is hidden away in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina along with its own village and winery. While the main house isn’t open to rent, guests are invited to stay at the historic cottage right on the castle grounds. The Biltmore is the perfect romantic escape, complete with farm-to-table dining, live music, carriage rides and various tours of the estate. Along with estate shops and award-winning dining, there’s a little something for everyone at the Biltmore. To book your own stay and activities, visit their website HERE.
While not everyone can afford an $83 million dollar castle like Queen Elizabeth, now we can all have a taste of the high life. Many castle and estate owners have began renting out their properties to guests to create the most memorable vacations yet. With centuries of history and acres of activities, a night in a castle could be just what you need. So are you looking to travel abroad to visit your favorites? Don’t forget to check out our guide for traveling with Crystal AirCruises to get there in style and comfort.
