Tag Archives: castles you can stay in

Ashford Castle. County Mayo, Ireland

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The Ashford Castle is an absolute gem and a stand alone spot in terms of greatness for all of Ireland. Built in 1228, the Castle sits on 350 acres of lush green and on the shores of Lough Corrib. Voted the third best hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure in 2015 and number two in the Top 10 Resorts in Europe by Conde Nast Traveler’s readers in 2014, the whole world has given us an extra vote of confidence on the fabulousness of this hotel.

With 82 rooms total, Ashford Castle has 68 guest rooms, each of which are unique and have amazing views, as well as 14 luxury suites. Due to much renovation and refurbishing of the ancient castle, each guest room is unique in its decoration and has been designed to stand apart from one another. Rooms have amazing artwork, antique furniture sourced from all over the world, and bespoke beds that you will never want to leave.

Sip on afternoon tea, a tradition that has been preserved at Ashford Castle since 1868. They serve the yummiest pastries, homemade scones and even cupcakes…indulge in champagne instead of tea, or both if you want the full experience.

Dine like a royal in the George V Dining Room, where they have been hosting famous guests, and even real-life royals, for over 800 years. The Prince of Wales, who then became George V, was the most distinguished guest, and after he came in 1906, the dining room proudly boasted his name. They are famous for their slow roasted beef rib, cut right at your table from their serving tray, accompanied by bérnaise sauce, made in house. Desserts are equally as amazing.

Discover the ancient art and ever-present fascination with falconry at Ashford Castle. They are home to the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland, and here you can learn to fly hawks right on hotel grounds. This leisurely activity has been around for 4,000 years and is a highlight for guests at Ashford Castle. Note too, that no previous falconry experience is necessary, and all ages can participate, so bring the kids along!

Enjoy all of the other amazing on-site activities at the estate, including the serene and stunning sanctuary that is their spa, where you can treat yourself to just about any type of service you can imagine in the purest of luxury and relaxation. The Castle also has on-site tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course, so be sure to pack your tennis whites and golf shoes! If you are still looking for more activities, and trust us, you should be, try fishing, horseback riding, cycling, kayaking, archery, skeet shooting, and boat trips galore. You will want to stay here forever, and if you do, please take us with you!

Glenapp Castle. Ballantrae, Scotland.

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Since its renovation and reopening in 2000, this coastal castle screams luxury. Its high prices reflect the amazing renovation work, and trust us, it is worth every penny. Originally built in 1870, Glenapp Castle was erected to impress and intimidate people all over the world. Now, it is the perfect place to soak in the best of the Scottish culture.

All 17 rooms look across the Irish Sea and to the Island of Arran. Each room has high ceilings and beautiful antique decor with amazing art all around. Through the massive Victorian windows, you will have views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding lush and flawlessly green gardens. All suites have a fireplace that ends up being the perfect addition, especially in the chilly Scottish climate. There is also a nearby beachfront to wander down, so pack your exploring shoes, or just go barefoot.

Dine onsite at the Glenapp Restaurant, which has been awarded one Michelin star. Go for a lovely afternoon tea, or enjoy dinner prepared by new Head Chef Tyron Ellul. They pride themselves on using the freshest produce and local ingredients, so all meals are cooked to be the absolute best. Watch the sunset over the coastline as you begin your six course meal, complete with canapés, dessert and everything in between. They have an extensive and excellent wine list as well.

The Castle has a luxury spa, only a 5 minute car ride from the property, and they have some amazing treatments, a sauna and a pool to satisfy all of your needs. Most guests rarely feel the need to venture away from the castle grounds, with surrounding beaches and many places to explore, we know that you hardly need to. Golf is a majorly popular activity, and with four championship courses all within an hour’s distance of the hotel, you will have your pick of some amazing places to play. Don’t miss the 150 foot Victorian Greenhouse or tennis court (it’s all-weather) on a rainy day.

Glenapp Castle is a beautiful and romantic spot, so it would be the absolute perfect place for a getaway with your other half. It is also a great spot to bring your family on ‘holiday’, as the Brits say.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

Amberley Castle. South Downs, UK.

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Amberley Castle is yet another winner in our United Kingdom special this month. The stunning castle sits on 12 beautiful acres of gardens and land – peacocks, alpacas call this castle home, too! Only a short drive from London and an even shorter one from Brighton, Amberley Castle is a unique and stunning place to retreat to.

This Castle holds amazing history inside of it, yet does not skimp on the luxury. It is absolutely the best of both worlds when it comes to mixing culture with the luxury you want on your vacation.

Each of the 19 rooms have unique qualities about them; no two rooms are the same in decoration and they are all designed to reflect the nature of the Castle’s origin over 900 years ago. All rooms have beautiful antique furniture and the finest fabrics, materials and fixtures.

If you are feeling like you want to truly experience the royal treatment, book the Bishoprics Suite. Or, if you want to make your stay as romantic as possible, opt for the Chichester Room, which is located on the top floor of the Castle and has a four-poster bed and the original fire place. All of the remaining Premier Deluxe Rooms are equally amazing, as is every single room in the Castle – they all even have whirlpool bathtubs, yes please!

The restaurant is located directly inside the Castle and hosts two rooms. Known for its impeccable cuisine, Amberley Castle serves wonderful food and is the number one choice among anyone in the surrounding area, residents and visitors alike. Dine in either the Queen’s Room or the Great Room, both of which date back to the 12th Century. If you go in the winter time, sit by the fire and warm your chilled bones, just like the Queen would.

Be sure to pack your play clothes because the property has a tennis court, a croquet lawn and an 18-hole putting course. Keep it British by venturing out in a hot air balloon or skeet shooting before your afternoon tea. One more insider tip: disconnect and leave your cell phones in the room, and your jeans, too. Embrace the Royal way, you will be glad you did.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.