Turrets, wrought-iron balconies, topiary maze gardens and even secret passages? Fantasy comes to life in our extraordinary castles. Explore our stunning selection, guaranteed to capture your kids’ imaginations on your family holiday in France, Italy and the UK.
French Fairy Tales
1. Château Les Tourelles, Dordogne
Found in 20 hectares of (probably) pixie-filled lush land, this chateau is the kind of place dreams are made of. The courtyard and gardens of this golden stone chateau are the perfect place for playing hide and seek, before winding down in front of the Renaissance fireplaces, warming up and sharing elaborate tales.
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £88pppn
2. Chateau Seiguier, Loire Valley
Built in the 17th century and renovated in 1997, Chateau Seiguier blends historic charm with the comfort and amenities of a modern home. What could be more fairytale than waking up to deer grazing under your window in your very own French Chateau? The opulent four-poster beds, large open fireplaces, and extensive gardens will only add to the storybook feel of your family holiday.
Sleeps: 12
Price from: £34pppn
3. Chateau De Baloigne, Rhone-Alpes
This fabulous self-catering chateau is surrounded by medieval ruins, which provide a uniquely atmospheric holiday experience. Imaginations will run wild in this unusual estate, which is protected by the government as a Monument Historique, some parts of the ruins date all the way back to the 12th century. However, the ancient building has been combined with 21st-century touches such as a fully fitted kitchen, hot and cold running water, and modern bathrooms with luxe showers.
Sleeps: 15-18
Price from: £38pppn
4. Chateau Crystal, Loire Valley
Just by glancing at this chateau, you can see its grand aura. Staying in this beautiful home is what princess’s dreams are made of. After all, what’s more fairytale than staying in your very own palace? This chateau is impeccably finished, with renovated interiors, antique decorations, and an exquisite carved-stone stairway.
Sleeps: 15-38
Prices from: £109pppn
5. Chateau Chamborigaud, Languedoc
This turreted castle in the mountains dates back to the 15th century. With spiral staircases, four poster beds and commanding views over the Cevennes mountains, children will feel like kings and queens of their own kingdom. If that wasn’t fantasy enough, dining with the coats of armour under the vaulted stone ceiling of the dining room is sure to get the ball rolling.
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £74pppn
Storybook Holidays in Italy
6. Castello Maddalena, Umbria
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Tiber Valley in the heart of Italy is the magnificent Castello Maddalena. The patch of land surrounding the infinity pool is a great place for all the family to enjoy playing and relaxing with the view of the castle as a striking backdrop. When evening comes, the whole family will delight in al fresco dinners crowned by an orange-pink sunset. Meraviglioso!
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £202pppn
7. Castle Mago, Tuscany
This 20-person castle is ideal for a large family holiday. The former residence of Leopold II, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, this 16th-century castle offers an authentically regal experience. This unique property has antiques, hidden doors, beautiful grounds, marble floors, frescoes, high ceilings, and even its own ghost! Driving up the cypress tree-lined driveway, the first glimpse of this castle is an experience to spark fairytale thoughts in even the most grown-up wanderer.
Sleeps: 20
Price from: £84pppn
UK Fantasy Castles
8. Loch Lomond Manor, Scotland
Nothing spells medieval fairytale like a castle stay in Scotland. Set close to the banks of Loch Lomond, this home feels wonderfully apart from its surroundings. The drive up is like crossing into another world, and once you step inside, 19th-century interiors rich with character and charm, will make it feel as though you’ve stumbled into times past. The perfect setting for your children’s very own Alice in Wonderland moment.
Sleeps: 10
Price from: £80pppn
9. Dorset Castle, Dorset
On the Isle of Portland, you’ll find the whimsical and wonderful Dorset Castle, an awesome 9-bedroom neo-gothic-style home that enjoys panoramic sea views over Church Ope Cove and the famous Jurassic coastline, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The real wow factor can be found in the orangery, during selected months, guests will enjoy splashing around in the indoor heated pool while enjoying the wonderful sea views. The tranquil gardens are perfect for afternoon strolls or picnics, and the home even hosts weddings.
Sleeps: 18
Price from: £118pppn
10. Cotswold Manor, Cotswolds
This stunning 15th-century manor house is sure to bring stories to life. Coats of armour stand sentinel around the house and grounds, and a beautiful long, narrow pond stretches along the manicured lawn to an arbour, where you can sit and survey the estate.
Sleeps: 10
Price from: £207pppn
So there you have our selection of castles kids will love. Has all this talk of storybook-inspired holidays sparked your interest? Maybe you’re daydreaming of your very own Rapunzel-towered chateau or Goldilocks-esque cottage for your family holiday? Have a look at some of our other quirky chateaux in France and interesting holiday villas to get the ideas flowing, or give our concierge team a ring to help you find exactly what you’re after.
