Castello Di Pavone has exterior walls dating back to the 9th century. Photo / Booking.com
Castello Di Pavone has exterior walls dating back to the 9th century. Photo / Booking.com
With the help of Booking.com, we've found five real European castles where you can indulge your fairy tale fantasies
Castello Di Pavone, Pavone Canavese, Italy
With exterior walls dating back to the 9th century, this castle is truly ancient, with a Romanesque church in the inner courtyard built in 850. The castle itself dates to the 14th century and served as a lookout to protect the surrounded estate from northern invasions. Despite the long history, the rooms within mix traditional furnishings with modern amenities.
The dining room at Castello Di Pavone. Photo / Booking.com
Langley Castle is located among 12 acres of woodland. Photo / Booking.com
This magnificent 14th century castle is located among 12 acres of woodland, with rooms complete with four-poster beds to add to that fairytale experience. Built in 1350 during the reign of Edward III, it's the perfect location to explore the nearby Hadrian's Wall. Afterwards, enjoy a drink in the superb drawing room, with stained-glass windows and a log fire.
Four-poster beds add to the fairytale experience at Langley Castle Hotel. Photo / Booking.com
Château d'Esparron, Esparron-de-Verdon, France
Château d'Esparron offers panoramic views of Lake Esparron from its 30m tower. Photo / Booking.com
This French castle is a five-minute walk from the beach, with stunning panoramic views of Lake Esparron from the top of its 30m tower. With foundations in the 13th century, this historic building is located in the heart of the Verdon Natural Park — so there's plenty of natural beauty to explore in the surroundings. All the guest rooms contain open fireplaces — perfect to cosy up in front of and imagine the past.
All guestrooms at Château d'Esparron include open fireplaces. Photo / Booking.com
Thornbury Castle, Thornbury, England
Thornbury is the only Tudor castle in England to be opened as a hotel. Photo / Booking.com
If you choose to book this castle, you'll be in royal company — King Henry VII and Anne Boleyn slept in one of the bedchambers and walked through the ancients gardens here. Rich with history, Thornbury is the only Tudor castle in England to be opened as a hotel.
King Henry VII and Anne Boleyn slept in one of the bedchambers at Thornbury Castle. Photo / Booking.com
The vineyard here has existed for over 500 years and still produces wine today. Activities on offer include croquet and archery, clay pigeonry and even falconry, which can be arranged with prior notice.
Luttrellstown Castle Resort can house up to 24 guests. Photo / Booking.com
Nestled within a 560-acre estate, this castle can rented for up to 24 guests, complete with a private chef and team of staff on hand. The 12-bedroom property boasts an elegant sitting room, cosy library and billiard room complete with a full-sized pool table and bar. Enjoy meals in the castle's elegant grand dining room after trying the many outdoor pursuits on offer.
The elegant sitting room at Luttrellstown Castle Resort. Photo / Booking.com
