Consider yourself a bit of a queen? Whether you have the budget of a prince or pauper, these palatial properties are perfect for every kind of Sleeping Beauty.
ASHFORD CASTLE ESTATE
F31 CA48 Cong, Ireland
One of Ireland’s oldest castles (originally dating back to medieval periods and then rebuilt in Victorian times) has been transformed into a five-star hotel considered amongst the county’s most luxurious. The property – previously owned by the Guinness family – recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation and now features exquisite interiors (such as custom carpeting, Waterford crystal chandeliers and 400-thread-count bed linens) as well as a wealth of on-estate activities and classic country pursuits.
GLENAPP CASTLE
Ayrshire, KA26 0NZ Girvan, United Kingdom (Scotland)
The former family seat of the Earl of Inchcape, now serves as a luxury hotel and restaurant, while maintaining its traditional Scottish Baronial style of architecture. With suites named after the aristocrats who inspired them (such as Countess of Inchcape room); views overlooking the islands of Ailsa Craig, Arran and Mull of Kintyre; and close proximity to local landmarks like Galloway Forest Park, Mull of Galloway, Culzean Castle and Castle Kennedy Gardens, it’s not hard to feel like you’re king of the world with a stay at this Scottish safehold.
CASTEL MONASTERO
Monastero D’Ombrone, 53019 Siena, Italy
You may not be able to build castles in the sky, but you can certainly construct them among the rolling vineyards of Tuscany – a point proven by the golden-hued Castel Monastero. The former country home of the noble Chigi family (first built in the 11th century) features 74 rooms and suites, a plethora of wellness spas and three different dining options, including a restaurant by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. And if that isn’t enough to entice you, the surrounding Chianti countryside (where you can go wine tasting, truffle picking and hot air ballooning) should do it!
CHATEAU DE BAGNOLS
Bagnols 0 Lyon, 69620 Lyon, France
Home to Palais des Papes and the famed Palace of Versailles, France is full of accommodation options fit for any aspiring kings (or beheaded queens). But among the most amazing – and accessible – is the 800-year-old Chateau de Bagnols. This Renaissance-style castle fuses the best of both modern and medieval times, allowing guests to enjoy gothic surrounds steeped in history as well as Michelin fine dining simultaneously. The suites also range from traditional to trendy, giving travellers the option to sit atop any throne (or bed) that suits their needs.
AQUILA NOVA RETREAT
222 Monbulk Road, 3792 The Patch, Australia
Regal influences reign supreme at Aquila Nova Retreat – with the 4.5-star bed & breakfast in the heart of Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges National Park making a queen-sized contribution to upper-class-inspired accommodation options in Australia. Featuring stately four-poster beds, roaring fireplaces, luxurious rose petal-filled spa baths, a glass-covered conservatory and enchanting balconies overlooking the landscaped gardens, it will transport you to an era in Europe when castle life was king.