Top 10 most luxurious and romantic castle hotels

We present you with the top 10 most luxurious and romantic castle hotels. These hotels were built in magical ancient castles against the backdrop of picturesque mountains or on the shores of beautiful lakes. They provide their guests with the opportunity to plunge into history, to get into the reign of kings and lords, while not looking up from the amenities of today.

10. Inverlochie Castle Hotel - Fort William, Scotland

Inverlochie Castle Hotel is a nineteenth-century mansion located in Scotland near Fort William. It was built in 1863 by James Scarlett, Abinger's first Baron. In 1873, Queen Victoria visited the castle on her way to Balmoral, after staying here for a week. Then she described Inverlochie like this: "I have never seen a place more romantic and charming than this castle." Inverlochy was converted into a hotel in 1969. It was voted "Best Hotel in Europe" in 2006 by Travel + Leisure magazine.

9. Mansfield Castle Hotel - Thane, Scotland

Among the most picturesque hills of Scotland, just an hour's drive from Inverness airport is one of the most beautiful castles of the Victorian era - Mansfield. This luxurious four-star hotel was built in the 1870s. Mansfield is a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying art and ancient architecture.

8. Abbeiglen Castle Hotel - Connemara, Ireland

Built in 1932, Abbeiglen Castle is run by the second generation of the Hughes family. It is located in a picturesque park in the heart of Connemara, just 50 miles west of Galway. The hotel is renowned for its luxurious rooms and unmatched cuisine. Abbeiglen has 45 superb four-poster rooms designed especially for royalty. In this hotel you will not only be able to touch the history, but at the same time enjoy all the modern comforts that Abbeiglen provides. But it is the serenity and tranquility of this place that makes it truly special. This four-star hotel has already won several prestigious awards (AA Courtesy and Care Award in 2002 and two AA Rosettes for Food). He is also a member of Manor House Hotels.

7. Castle Hotel Ballinahinch - Cashel, Ireland

In the heart of the Connemara area, in County Galway, against the backdrop of the picturesque Twelve Ben mountains, lies the exquisite and beautiful Ballinahinch Castle. It is located on a private estate of 450 acres. This luxurious four-star hotel is famous not only for the elegant interior of the rooms, but also for the mesmerizing views that open to the eyes of the castle's guests. Ballinahinch also has excellent cuisine, where the famous local salmon is prepared.

6. Bussaco Palace - Portugal

In the very center of Portugal, the municipality of Meallada, among the Serra do Bussaco mountains, stands one of the most beautiful castles - the Bussaco Palace. It was built in 1888-1907 for the last kings of Portugal. The first architect of this legendary palace was the Italian Luigi Manini, who designed it in the Neo-Manuelino style, inspired by the architecture of the sixteenth century. The Bussaco Palace was once part of the monastery of the Barefoot Carmelite Order, founded in 1628. The monks not only created the monastery, but also created a delightful garden that represents heaven on earth. The hotel is perfect for all art lovers.

5. Dalhousie Castle Hotel - Edinburgh, Scotland

The Dalhousie Castle Hotel is a thirteenth century fortress located in a picturesque forest on the banks of the Esk River. It is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels to welcome guests with true Scottish hospitality. Whether you are relaxing in the spa, reading one of the books in the rich library, or enjoying fine wine sitting in front of the fireplace, you will always feel like a king and queen. Interestingly, the fortress, which once served for military purposes, has now become one of the best castle hotels in the world, where they organize luxurious weddings in Scotland.

4. Solis Lough Eske - Donegal, Ireland

Located in the town of Donegal, this fifteenth century castle has a rich history dating back to the O'Donnells, the founders of the state of Donegal in northwest Ireland. Solis Lough Eske is a hotel that provides comfort and coziness, an ideal place for both businessmen and companies who want to enjoy modern comfort and convenience, as well as for newlyweds who want to make the most important day of their life even more special and memorable. The hotel has won many international awards including World Luxury Hotel Award, Luxury Country Hotel, Wedding Venue of the Year. It was also voted the best castle hotel in the world by international tourism expert Stephanie Abrams.

3. Schloss hotel Kronberg - Kronberg

This five-star luxury hotel is housed in an ancient castle built between 1889 and 1894 for the widow of the German Emperor Frederick III Victoria, Princess of Great Britain, and was named after her husband. The empress lived here until her death in 1901. Then the youngest daughter of the emperor, Princess Margaret of Prussia, inherited the castle. The hotel, together with the adjacent park, is currently the property of the Hesse House. Since 1954, the castle has been used as a first class hotel.

2. Castle Hotel Dromoland - Newmarket-on-Fergus, Ireland

The fairytale castle Dromoland was converted into a hotel in 1962. The history of the castle dates back to the 5th century. It is the ancestral home of the Gaelic family, who are direct descendants of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland. Guests of the hotel, being in this magical old building with all modern amenities, will be able to relax from the hustle and bustle of the big city, to feel the real atmosphere of Ireland. The hotel is located on a private estate and is only eight miles from Shannon International Airport.

1. Ashford Castle Hotel - Mayo, Ireland

Ashford is another 350-acre castle from Ireland with a long history. It is one of the most beautiful five-star hotels in the world. Ashford provides guests with the most comfortable rooms and the most delicious food imaginable. While staying at this castle, you can enjoy wines at the Connaught Room and George V Restaurants, sip afternoon tea at the Drawing Room or sample pre-dinner drinks at the Prince of Wales Cocktail Lounge.