Let’s face it, everyone loves castles. Be it the girls who want to indulge their inner princess or the chaps who like to imagine themselves donning a full suit of armour and wielding a broadsword. Castles you can rent have tangible magic about them that will captivate and delight anyone of any age.
Staying in one is an experience unlike any other, and so to help you choose the perfect location for your fairytale getaway we’ve sourced 10 castles you can rent that are an adventure for kids and a truly memorable break for anyone who’s got a bit of imagination and romance in their heart.
This magnificent lakeside 19th-century chateau rental is the stuff of fairytales. Extensively renovated with beautiful antiques and fabrics, Chateau Crystal still retains a homely and welcoming feel. Indulge in its unfounded luxury; 22-acre private lake, swimming pool, gorgeous garden and woods overflowing with wildlife.
Open log fires and Wi-Fi, are available and housekeeping, catering and laundry services can be arranged. You won’t need to lift a finger.
Sleep: 15-38
Price from: £92pppn | approx. $114pppn (based on 15 people)
Formerly the home of Leopold II Grand Duke of Tuscany, this is really something to behold and one of our finest castles you can rent. Situated between two of the most beautiful cities Italy has to offer, Lucca and Sienna, its positioning enjoys views of Elba Island and the sea beyond. Here you can relish the private rose garden, outdoor dining area, swimming pool and outdoor jacuzzi tub.
The interiors are beautifully dramatic with high ceilings and fitted with family heirlooms, and yet there is every mod-con imaginable. Catering, laundry, housekeeping and day trips are available on request!
Sleeps: 20-26
Price from: £88pppn | approx. $109pppn (based on 20 people)
This unbelievable Grade II listed castle is a phenomenal place to stay for anyone looking for the ultimate medieval experience. Enjoying 360-degree views over the North Somerset country and the Bristol Channel, it’ll be the picture you always dreamt of. The main part of the accommodation is housed in an octagonal keep, which sits in the centre of a beautifully maintained lawn and cobbled courtyard. If you can wrangle the master bedroom, you won’t regret it – fitted with a glorious roll-top bath and private terrace.
Other highlights include the patio which boasts a wooden hot tub, BBQ and the indoor pool.
Sleeps: 16
Price from: £107pppn | approx. $133pppn
It’s not often you get the chance to sleep in luxury in an ancient Disney-style castle in the Cevennes Mountains. Surrounded by 5 acres of land – this chateau mixes a modern style with fine medieval character to great effect.
With 10 comfy bedrooms, spiral staircases and sparkling chandeliers you’ll feel fully emerged in fairytale-land. There is also a heated outdoor pool and a sunny terrace for enjoying breakfast every morning. For sights, outdoor pursuits and shopping, you are within easy reach!
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £69pppn | approx. $85pppn
Set among the idyllic landscape of rolling Tuscan hills, Villa Sartino is a delightful hideaway for 12 guests with perfectly manicured gardens and sumptuous interiors created by a renowned designer. The home’s pool is set amongst the olive trees, sculpted into the grounds, with an infinity edge that disappears into the spectacular backdrop. Surrounded by over 70 acres of its own land, all fenced to maintain the safety of the natural environment and the protection of the animals that live within the woods, it provides the perfect backdrop for a truly memorable holiday in a castle you can rent.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £173pppn | approx. $215pppn
Another castle for lovers of contemporary style, this renovated castle looks just as impressive inside as it does outside! A fairytale building with its own private tennis court, Kirkliston Castle is nestled in 32 acres of manicured parkland, making it feel like a real retreat in the countryside. As you venture indoors, you’ll find each room decorated in its own unique way, with opulent furnishings giving off a sophisticated feel. There are plenty of places to entertain – the BBQ outdoor dining area, marble lounge, piano room, orangery and even a fully-stocked bar! Best of all, the buzzing heart of Edinburgh is only 20 minutes away, and you can get to the Edinburgh Gin or Glenkichie Whisky Distilleries in less than 30 minutes!
Sleeps: 24
Price from: £162pppn | $202pppn
Deep in the Loire countryside, this 17th-century chateau is surrounded by acres of private grounds. The six bedrooms and interiors have been decorated in a historic but modern style, with periodic furniture, high ceilings and exposed beams.
Apart from horse riding and the occasional tennis game, visitors can enjoy an occasional glimpse of deer under their windows, and anglers can try their hand at catching fish in the chateau’s private pond.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £32pppn | approx. $40pppn
Choose Castle Nardelli if you’re ready to experience a romantic hilltop castle in all its glory. The Stocchi family opened their doors to the public in 2013 for guests to enjoy the masterpiece for themselves.
The interiors are intrinsic as you’d expect them to be but equally as warm and welcoming. Besides the six captivating bedrooms, the castle also has exclusive wellness facilities. Slip on your robe, slippers and swim cap at the ready and get comfortable in the jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £80pppn | approx. $99pppn
The story of how Chateau Bourgogne came to be is beautiful – the devoted owners spotted the castle in an estate agent’s window in Paris and even since they’ve worked hard to make this the home it is. Its origins date as far back as 1000AD; so it definitely has plenty of character to show off.
There are ten bedrooms across the three upper floors, some of them en-suite and with original fireplaces (central heating and Wi-Fi included). Then step outside to the meandering grounds and find the wonderful eco-heated swimming pool or simply sip local wine by the terrace.
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £36pppn | approx. $44pppn
Situated on the shores of West Loch Tarbert, Tarbert Country Manor boasts stunning views over the loch to Kintyre and the hills of Arran. Hosting up to 17 guests in truly regal style, this is the perfect retreat for a large group that really wants some peace and quiet. However, you’ll also be just a 15-minute drive away from the nearby village and its selection of shops, restaurants and pubs – truly the best of both worlds!
And for any tech lovers in your party, never fear: the turreted 19th-century baronial mansion has been lovingly modernised, combining its original charm and character with updated interiors and all the modern amenities guests could possibly need.
Sleeps: 17
Price from: £37pppn | approx. $46pppn
Have your fairytale holiday in one of our castles you can rent or contact our concierge team for assistance. They will be happy to help you find the perfect castle! Check out the full portfolio on Oliver’s Travels.
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