Apr 03 2009
Unique Accommodation: Castle Hotels
Believe it or not, there are actually many many castle hotels around the world looking for guests—and some will fit any budget! As expected, most of these unique accommodations are located in
Europe; and what a great way to experience the old continent–by staying in an old building!
Consider these three castle hotels:
Burg Colmberg, Colmberg (near Rothenburg ob der Tauer), Germany
With a history that dates back to the 13th century and sitting atop an almost 1,700 foot peak, the Burg Colmberg has everything you’d expect a German castle to have–ivy climbing the exterior stone walls, a round tower, and an inside maze of short stairwells, twisting hallways, and filled to the brim with antiques, fireplaces, and stuffed animals. Each room is different, but all have ornate furniture and a magnificent view of the Franconian landscape.
A double room with a private shower and breakfast starts at just €79 (approximately $105), but the Baroque suite with a private whirlpool is a bit pricier. Inquire about reservations on-line.
Amberley Castle, West Sussex, United Kingdom
Located in the charming village of Amberley, the approximately 900-year-old Amberley Castle is an ideal castle hotel for anyone looking for a luxurious retreat. Many of the rooms offer four-poster beds, all have private Jacuzzis, and all beautifully decorated. The grounds with medieval stonework, rose gardens, and koi-filled ponds are also a main attraction. Rates depend on time of year, room type, and day of the week, but begin at £165 (approximately $240). Reservations can be made on-line.
Carbisdale Castle, Sutherland, Scotland
Built for the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland in 1906, the Carbisdale Castle is now a youth hostel with beds available in typical hostel-fashion bunkrooms from March to October. Called “one of the most opulent youth hostels in the world” by the Rough Guide to Scotland, the castle is filled with impressive artwork and Italian marble statues. Other facilities include laundry facilities, games room TV room, lounge, and basic shop.
Beds start for as low as £17 per person (approximately $25) and reservations can be made securely on-line or over the phone.
Looking for more castle hotels? Try these websites/articles:
- Germany’s Castle Hotels (a great article from Budget Travel on some ideal German castle hotels)
- Celtic Castles (a comprehensive guide to castles in the United Kingdom)
- Castle Hotels (a directory of sorts with castles hotels in Europe, the United States, and Mexico)
This is the tenth post in a series on unique accommodations. Find more unique hotel choices…
