Turrets, wrought-iron balconies, topiary maze gardens and even secret passages? All of these have one thing in common, fantasy. We have a stunning selection of fairytale castles kids will love for your family holiday in France, Italy and the UK guaranteed to capture kids’ imaginations.
Found in 20 hectares of (probably) pixie-filled lush land, this chateau is the kind of place dreams are made of. The courtyard and gardens of this golden stone chateau are the perfect place for playing hide and seek, while the Renaissance fireplaces are the spot to sit warming up and sharing elaborate tales.
Sleeps: 16
Price from: £42pppn
Built in the 17th century and renovated in 1997, Chateau Seiguier combines the charm of a historic property with the comfort and amenities of a modern home. What could be more fairy tale than waking up to deer grazing under your window in your very own French Chateau? Maybe the fact that it’s a dead ringer for Cinderella’s childhood home to boot. The opulent four-poster beds, large open fireplaces and myriad places to explore in the extensive gardens will only add to the storybook feel of your family holiday.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £20pppn
This fabulous self-catering chateau is surrounded by medieval ruins, which provide a uniquely atmospheric holiday experience. Imaginations can run wild in this unusual estate, which is protected by the government as a Historic Monument, some parts of the ruins date all the way back to the 12th century. However, the ancient building has been combined with 21st-century touches such as a fully fitted kitchen, hot and cold running water and modern bathrooms with luxe showers.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £28pppn
Just by glancing at the property you can already see its grand aura! It’s any princess’s dream to stay in this beautiful chateau- what’s more fairy tale than staying in your very own palace? This chateau is impeccably finished from the inside out, with its renovated interiors, antique decorations and exquisite carved-stone stairway.
Sleeps: 38
Prices from: £29pppn
This turreted Disney-esque castle in the mountains dates back to the 15th century. With spiral staircases, four poster beds and commanding views over the Cevennes mountains – children will feel like kings and queens of their own kingdom. If that wasn’t fantasy enough, dining with the coats of armour under the vaulted stone ceiling of the dining room is sure to get the ball rolling.
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £63pppn
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Tiber Valley in the very heart of Italy is the magnificent Castello Maddalena. The lovely patch of lawn surrounding the infinity pool is a great place for all the family to enjoy playing and relaxing with the view of the castle itself as a striking backdrop. When evening comes in, the whole family will delight in al fresco dinners crowned by a pinky-orange sunset scene. Meraviglioso!
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £193pppn
This 20-person castle is ideal for a large family holiday. The former residence of Leopold II, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, this 16th-century castle offers an authentically regal experience. This unique property has antiques, hidden doors, beautiful grounds, marble floors, frescoes, high ceilings and even its own ghost! Driving up the cypress tree-lined driveway, the first glimpse of this castle is an experience to spark fairy tale thoughts in even the most grown-up holiday-maker.
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £91pppn
There’s nothing that spells medieval fairytale quite like a castle stay in Scotland. Close to the banks of Loch Lomond, this house is very original and different from the ones in the surrounding area, giving the impression of entering a parallel world, as if you were going back in time to the start of the 19th century. Inside, the house is full of character and charm – beautiful objects like a vintage rocking horse, rope swing and a wendy house are sure to delight and entertain little ones.
Sleeps:10
Price from: £35pppn
On the Isle of Portland, you’ll find the whimsical and wonderful Dorset Castle, an awesome 9-bedroom neo-gothic-style home that enjoys panoramic sea views over Church Ope Cove and the famous Jurassic coastline, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The real wow factor can be found in the orangery, during selected months, guests will enjoy splashing around in the indoor heated pool while enjoying the wonderful sea views. The tranquil gardens are perfect for afternoon strolls or picnics, and the home even hosts weddings.
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £118pppn
This stunning 15th-century manor house is sure to bring stories to life. Coats of armour stand sentinel around the house and grounds, and a beautiful long, narrow pond stretched along the manicured lawn to an arbour, where you can sit and survey the estate.
Sleeps: 10
Price from: £78pppn
So there you have our selection of castles kids will love. Has all this talk of storybook-inspired holidays sparked your interest? Maybe you’re daydreaming of your very own Rapunzel-towered chateau or Goldilocks-esque cottage for your family holiday? Have a look at some of our other quirky chateaux in France and interesting holiday villas to get the ideas flowing, or give our concierge team a ring to help you find exactly what you’re after.
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