A castle stay can mean a room in a historic building, a cottage on the estate or a full-property booking. Before choosing based on the architecture, decide which kind of accommodation and trip you want. ELLE’s guide to nine castle stays includes options across the U.K., Ireland, France, Austria and the United States.
That distinction matters: the guide describes several properties with more than one lodging format, and one listed hotel is closed for renovation. Treat the choices below as a shortlist, then confirm the exact room type and dates with the property.
Choose the kind of stay
At Kilkea Castle in County Kildare, Ireland, guests can stay in the 12th-century castle itself or book newer carriage rooms and lodges. The resort also lists activities such as falconry and archery, as well as escape rooms and encounters with resident Irish wolfhounds. Ask which accommodation category is available if sleeping inside the castle is your priority.
Domaine des Étangs in France’s Charente region offers 11 château rooms and suites, plus six private farmhouse cottages. The former 13th-century castle estate spans 2,500 acres, and dining is led by a Michelin-starred chef. Decide whether you want a château room or a separate cottage before comparing options.
In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Graylyn offers a different sort of castle atmosphere. Its Manor House features circular stone towers; its Mews is a farm complex designed to resemble a Normandy village. The estate has Norman Revival architecture and a 15th-century French doorway. It’s an option for travelers who want the setting without an overseas trip, not a medieval European castle.
Consider your group and timing
Aldourie Castle on Loch Ness is an exclusive-use property with 12 bedrooms and space for up to 24 guests. The 17th-century castle sits on 500 acres and has a private pier. Its format makes it worth considering for a group booking, but check availability and the terms for your dates directly.
Dorset Castle, on the Isle of Portland in England, sleeps up to 20 guests across nine en-suite bedrooms. It is listed through Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. The source gives no rates or points-redemption figures, so travelers interested in using rewards should check current booking details rather than assume a particular value.
Dromoland Castle in County Clare, Ireland, requires especially careful timing: ELLE reports it is closed for renovation and is expected to reopen in summer 2027. Its listed activities include embroidery workshops, clay shooting and falconry. Verify the reopening status before planning a stay.
Other properties in the guide offer distinct settings and amenities. Matfen Hall in Northumberland is a country house hotel with a Gothic-style Great Hall, golf course and Aurelius Spa, described as opening in the fall. Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, near Salzburg, sits beside Lake Fuschl and features an Old Masters collection and water sports including kayaking and paddle boarding. Château Saint-Martin & Spa in Vence, France, includes 47 rooms and suites, six villas and a spa.
Before requesting a quote, specify your preferred building or lodging type, guest count and dates. Then confirm availability and the cost for that exact arrangement. Which matters most for your castle trip: the historic room, the activities or space for a group?
Source image: ELLE.