Surrounded by evergreen trees, the Inverlochy Castle Hotel is a gorgeous 19th century castle nestled in the surrounds of Scotland. This hotel is rich in landscape and history, to name but a few of these breath-taking places – the falls at Glen Nevis, the monument at Glenfinnan and the mountains of Glencoe.
Queen Victoria herself spent a week here back in 1873 – and declared in her diaries ‘I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’. Whilst the views are fantastic, the food is even better. Feast at Albert and Michel Roux Jr at Inverlochy Castle restaurant and enjoy legendary dishes.
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Where to find it: Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Torlundy, Fort William PH33 6SN
Reservations: Phone 01397 702177 or visit inverlochycastlehotel.com to make a booking
2 Ashford Castle, Ireland
Whilst stumbling across overflowing pots of gold at the end of magical rainbows is unfortunately nothing more than fiction, booking a stay at Ashford Castle is the next best thing when it comes to finding pure gold in Ireland.
Inside the grey stone walls, opulence awaits. With lavish decorations, ruby red interiors and enormous chandeliers, walking into Ashford’s entrance is impressive enough in itself. Once the lavish home of the Guinness family, the building dates back to 1228, and was recently painstakingly restored to its former glory by Red Carnation Hotels. It’s beautiful – the sort of place that immediately has you peering around in awe.
Creature comforts await – a four-poster bed, roaring fire, luxurious chairs, flowing curtains – all surrounded with stylish decorations, interesting books and little extras that make the space feel like it’s lavish enough for the likes of royalty. First established in the 12th century, this awe-inspiring castle remains every bit as magnificent 800 years later.
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Where: Ashford Castle, Cong, County Mayo, Ireland F31 CA48
Price: Rooms at Ashford Castle start from €595 a night for a double room, on a bed and breakfast basis.
To book call 0035 394 954 6003, email reservations@ashfordcastle.com or visit www.ashfordcastle.com
3 Bovey Castle, England
When it comes to dramatic views, Bovey Castle in Dartmoor has it covered. Literally. This luxurious castle overlooks the western side of Dartmoor National Park – gaze at heather-covered moorland, little villages and herds of wild horses.
Built in 1906, this archaic property has kept all of its beautiful period features – the enormous granite fireplaces, gleaming mahogany staircases and vast windows still remain. For the modern visitor, there’s a heated swimming pool and whirlpool to enjoy – as well as a spa, steam room and sauna.
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Where: North Bovey, Newton Abbot TQ13 8RE
Bookings: Visit boveycastle.com to make a booking
4 Castello del Nero, Tuscany
If you’re looking to leave behind the hectic stress of daily life, hop on the nearest plane to Tuscany for a weekend visit to the idyllic Castello del Nero. A fairytale castle immersed in rolling Tuscan hills, Castello del Nero offers the perfect location for a luxurious break from reality.No ordinary hotel, Castello del Nero was first built back in the 13th century – although the castle has only opened its doors to the public as a hotel for the last ten years. 2016 marked its very first decade of lavishing guests with indulgent rooms, attentive service and sheer dining decadence – the very first 5 star luxury hotel to open in Tuscany, it’s now a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
However, don’t be fooled by its archaic past – the castle mingles historical elegance and Tuscan charm with the very finest 21st century amenities and exquisite decor.
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Where: Str. Spicciano, 7, 50028 Tavarnelle Val di Pesa FI, Italy
Bookings: Visit castellodelnero.com/en/ to start the adventure