5 Castles You Can Stay In

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