Seven Magnificent Castle Stays to Cure your Royal Family Fever
2018 is shaping up to be a historic year for the British Royal Family. Not only are His Royal Highness Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge welcoming their next prince in April, but His Royal Highness, Prince Harry is set to marry Meghan Markle in a royal wedding at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle on 19 May.
But if you didn’t get an invite to the royal baby shower or wedding, don’t fret! Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, delved into its more than 1.6 million properties in over 128,000 destinations across the globe to present seven magnificent castle stays fit for royalty, but on a ‘commoners’ budget.
Castello Di Pavone – Pavone Canavese, Italy
If you are looking for an ancient castle that has transformed into a charming hotel, then the Castello Di Pavone is the place to stay. Surrounded by a tropical garden, all rooms mix traditional furnishing with modern amenities, offering a truly unique setting steeped in history. The property features a number of dining halls, small and large, and each one has unique features that will you bring you back in time such as chandeliers and beamed ceilings.
Parador de Cardona Cardona, Spain
With a magical setting inside a 9th-century castle, the Parador de Cardona is straight out of fairy tale. Offering panoramic views over the Catalonian countryside, and interiors faithful to the Cardona's history with medieval styling, vaulted ceilings, stone walls and gorgeous courtyards, you’ll be treated like a king or queen. Guests will be spellbound with the delicious and authentic Catalonian specialties, before retreating to a charming bedroom with canopy beds and the beautiful furnishing highlighted by theatrical lighting and rich fabrics.
The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalian – Dalian, China
Given the iconic Bavarian-style of The Castle Hotel, you might think you were in the hills of Germany’s Black Forest. But you’re actually only a few steps away from Xinghai Square – the largest city square in the world. Offering high-end accommodation and the royal treatment every guest deserves. Surrounded by lush forests, this luxurious property features elegantly decorated rooms and offers the royal treatment at the spa and indoor pool.
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel - Ballynahinch, Ireland
Set in the striking woodlands of Galway County with the beautiful backdrop of the 12 Bens Mountain Range, this luxury castle overlooks its impressive salmon fishery on its large private estate. Nature lovers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities fit for a royal, such as pony trekking, woodcock shooting or just relaxing walk by the lake and the river to admire the local wildlife.
Roch Castle – Roch, UK
This impressive castle overlooking the St Brides Bay will transport guests to a mystical time. Dating back to the 12th century, Roch Castle is standing proudly on a rocky outcrop high above the Pembrokeshire landscape. Guests can enjoy a unique sense of history combined with a romantic getaway as each room is luxuriously decorated offering a modern feeling with beautiful views of the British coast and countryside.
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac – Quebec City, Canada
Situated in Old Quebec, this heritage property boasts views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old fortified City. Being a landmark on its own right, guests can make themselves at home in the luxurious, European-style rooms as well as spa facilities to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day exploring upper and lower town districts of Quebec City.
RAAS Devigarh – Delwara, India
For something a little less ordinary during your trip in India, choose to rest your head at the RAAS Devigarh. Housed in an 18th-century palace in the village of Delwara, this heritage property is nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills and has a picture-perfect mountain backdrop. Guests can have a quiet read in the library or relax in their spacious suite adorned with grand furnishings and intricately carved archways.