There is so much to get done in a day for the average family – clean the house, run errands, cook copious amounts of food—especially if you have teenagers.
The ultimate dream vacation is where you not only get to discover someplace new, but get to do it without the stressful demands of your daily life.
Find out what it’s like to live like royalty for a change by staying at some of the most lavish castles in the world.
The luxurious mansions of old are not just in fairytales, but are also a modern escape for travelers.
From England to Italy, occupy the seats of kings in one of these castles on a hill.
1. Augill Castle, Cumbria, England
Nestled in the green rolling hills of Cumbria, England stands an 1841 Victorian castle that was built for a retired surgeon with an inheritance from his deceased wife.
Located on 15 acres of coveted land are beautiful gardens and fields, even a secret garden that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
How can you get into this gorgeous home in the hills? Book the retreat through Airbnb.
You can book the castle for just you and your spouse or for the whole family, with room for up to 30 adults and 10 kids.
Soak in one of the claw foot bathtubs, cozy up next to the fireplace, and lay your head down in the massive four-posters beds.
2. Melville Castle in Midlothian, Scotland
A mere 20 minutes away from Edinburgh, Scotland lies the party house built in 1791 for Mary Queen of Scots.
When Mary wasn’t hosting her epic parties, she used the castle to spend weekends hunting since it is surrounded by woodlands next to the North Esk River.
It’s okay if you don’t know how to use a garderobe, otherwise known as an ancient bathroom, because the castle has been fully equipped with modern interior amenities.
Book this fortress for a vacation that takes you back in time, while still providing every comfort of a 5-star hotel.
3. Suite St. Augustin in Burnand, France
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist ridden destinations of France, but still experience the culture and charm of the romantic country?
The Suite St. Augustine in Burnand, France is a fabulous chateau that has been the home to nobles, monks, and artists.
You will feel like you’re at an art gallery with the blend of modern and antique art displayed all throughout the beautiful castle.
Rest like a king and queen on outdoor lounge chairs that overlook the breathtaking French countryside before dining on authentic French cuisine in the nearby medieval town of St. Gengoux-le-National.
This getaway is best suited for couples or families with older children because of all the sculptures and formal bedroom suites.
4. Castle of Badia in Poggibonsi, Italy
Heading south, we arrive in wine country at the Tuscan Castle of Badia in Poggibonsi, Italy.
Originally a monastery, this resilient castle was built prior to the year 1000 AD, was then destroyed in the 15th century, and finally reconstructed in 1886.
You will never cease to be amazed from beginning to end as you drive across a drawbridge onto the castle grounds, walk through large chambers with exposed beams and magnificent chandeliers, and look out of the stone window frames over the perfect Italian landscape.
This is also one of the only castles that offers a pool so you can get some summer splashes in after working up a sweat exploring the vineyards.
People from all walks of life will enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience where an extraordinary host will wine and dine you like a member of the royal family.
This summer, have the vacation you never thought possible by booking an affordable suite in a real castle.
Whether you are a fan of Game of Thrones, The Tudors, or Vikings, you have surely dreamed of staying in the magnificent stone structures of the rich and powerful.
Book your castle room today and come back home with your head a little higher and your experiences a little richer.
Please let us know in the comments section if you have ever stayed in a castle and what it was like.
