Author: Maria Alfano
Every little girl dreams of her prince charming living in one of the castles of the world. As she grows up, the fantasy is placed on the back burner. Her real prince charming comes with a house and a white picket fence. That doesn’t mean she doesn’t deserve to visit some of these beautiful historical castles. A vacation to a far-off land is not just about sun, fun, and beaches. Explore the countryside. Take in the scenes. Do what the locals do. But, most of all go visit some of these palatial estates. You may not have the opportunity for much longer seeing how some of these are very old. They just may not sustain the elements for too much longer.
Why not take the special lady to a castle on the beach or one of many castles you can stay in? Help her check this off her bucket list and fulfill a childhood fantasy. Whether it’s castles in France or castles in America, many will be sure to please her. Build your travel itinerary and take her on a whirlwind vacation to see the castles of the world.
Everyone is familiar with Buckingham palace. A real princess grew up there to become queen of the palace. This is the grandest castle in England. Anyone can walk through London and see the gated castle estate from afar. That’s not much of a view and not much of an experience or is it? You can join a guided tour and experience the changing of the guard. You will not likely encounter any of the Royals or see deep in the bowels of Windsor Palace. But, the experience would be grand nonetheless.
Visit The Historic Castles Of The World
What if I told you that you could visit older more historic castles around the world, in more exotic or mysterious places? Would you want to travel to these faraway places to make your lady’s dreams come true? This post will take you on a trip around the globe to visit some of the most historic castles in the world.
Medieval Castles
Many people associate medieval times with bad things. In fact, medieval times refer to the period after the fall of the Roman empire between the 5th and 15th centuries. Often called the middle ages because it demarks the time between old Rome and the new modern Europe. Times were tough and rather barbaric. Rulers of the day lived lavish lives in gorgeous castles that reflected the period.
Early Castles
Bran Castle, (Transylvania, Romania) – is commonly called Dracula’s castles as it is the backdrop for Bram Stoker’s novel by the same name. Built in the early 12th century this was considered home by Vlad the Impaler. The castle changed hands many times over the years. Today you can tour the palace for a mere $10 USD. Walk the beautiful grounds located 2500 feet up the mountain, enjoy the views, and explore the almost 15,000 sq. ft. interior.
Tourbillon Castle, (Sion, Switzerland) – sits perched atop a hillside and boasts stunning views of the Swiss countryside. Built between the last 1290s and early 1300s, as the principal residence of Bishop Boniface de Challant. Be prepared for a steep climb up to get to the castle. Perhaps, you can stop at the little chapel on the way up to catch your breath.
Hohensalzburg Fortress, (Saltzburg, Austria) – as you walk through the heart of Old Salztbrug you cannot miss this grand estate sitting 1500 ft up in the sky. Construction started in the 9th century on this almost 41,000 sq. ft. castle, making it one of the largest in all Europe. Today it is home to museums, concerts, and walking tours.
Osaka Castle, Japan – built in the late 1500s. This castle emulates the image we have of a classic castle – high up on a hill, surrounded by a moat and stone walls. It was home to the Japanese ruler, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Records indicate that approximately 1 million stones weighing an average of 25 lbs each were used to build this 5 story estate. The best time to visit is when the cherry blossoms are in full. bloom.
18th And 19th Century Castles In The World
There are striking differences and many similarities between the medieval and later period castles. Each has its own grandeur and beauty, and its own story to tell.
Lyndhurst Castle, (Tarrytown, New York) – this 16-room mansion was designed and constructed in 1838 for the mayor of New York on a 67-acre plot of land. Eventually, it was home to the Gould family from the late 1800s until it was donated to the National Trust For Historic Preservation in 1961. Pack your picnic basket and blanket to enjoy a meal amid the castle landscape.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany – commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria the castle opened in 1884 as a retreat. This castle is considered a paradox as it was built at a time when castle strongholds were no longer considered necessary. You may recognize this castle as the inspiration of Disney’s Magic Kingdom castle and the castle in Sleeping Beuty.
Casa Loma, (Toronto, Canada) – constructed in 1911. This gothic revival mansion was a testament to the owner Sir Henry Pellatt, a financier of the time. Grand estate rooms and secret passageways take you beneath the city streets to the horses’ stables. From the top of the hill, you have an amazing view of the cityscape. You can enjoy a tour of the home which is now a museum or dinner in the restaurant. And, it is not unusual to see a bride and groom on the grounds celebrating their nuptials.
Castles You Can Stay In
Top off the tour with a stay in one of the coolest hotels (castles) ever. Cap off her dreams with an unforgettable night (or two) in a castle.
Castello di Mugnana, (Florence, Italy) – for wine lovers, a stay in this castle will put you in the middle of the Italian wine country. At this time rooms range from $100 to $1,000 per night.
Château de Brou, (Loire Valley, France) – the country of love is an amazing place to stay. This 13 room mansion is available for rent at a mere $1,300+ per night.
Melville Castle, (Lasswade, Scotland) – located just a few minutes outside the bustling metropolis of Edinborough, a 5-night stay in this estate will run you between $650 and $1,500 USD depending on the room.
In Summary
There are many spectacular castles of the world that will know your socks off. Take the time to visit some of these old castle estates, take in their castle landscapes, and enjoy a night in a castle you can stay in.
We would love to hear from you. Have you been to or ever stayed in a castle? Which one was your favorite?