Can you imagine spending Christmas in a castle? If it sounds like a pipe dream, you might be surprised to discover that you can actually make it happen. There are a number of castles found throughout Europe that offer public accommodation along with a particularly magical Christmas ambience. Some even include holiday packages that make even staying in a relative bargain. If you can't make it this year, it's never too early to plan for 2016!
Credit: facebook.com Castle Hotel ThanneggCastle Hotel Thannegg
Castle Hotel Thannegg, Gröbming, Austria (Prices and photos)
This castle hotel really does look like something out of the pages of a fairytale book. Ideally located in the Austrian Alps, the Castle Hotel Thannegg boasts an 850-year history with four-star elegance in an informal, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests enjoy tranquil surroundings and breathtaking scenery as well as easy access to some of the most beautiful ski resorts in the Alps. Winter is truly magical here, with the possibility of snowshoeing, romantic carriage rides through the snow and even sledding on a natural moonlit toboggan run. Inside the castle, you'll look forward to sipping homemade mulled wine by the fire and enjoying incredible holiday meals with traditional dishes that include local ingredients from organic farmers - medieval dinners are served in the authentic hall of arms.
Credit: Michael CostaClontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin, IrelandClontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin, Ireland
Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin, Ireland (Prices and photos)
This luxurious Irish castle built in 1172 is tucked away on the outskirts of Dublin, just minutes from the heart of the city, in a quiet and peaceful setting. Steeped in Irish history, while it has changed hands several times over the years, it has been owned by everyone from military leader and politician Oliver Cromwell to Captain John Blackwell. In 1837, due to sinking foundations, the original building was demolished and rebuilt - today, you will enjoy many modern luxuries along with the charm of a real royal experience. The castle offers a special Christmas package that includes a Christmas Eve arrival reception with mulled wine, mince pies and carols along with many other benefits, such as a champagne Christmas Day breakfast and Christmas mass. You can also expect fantastic evening shows, music and dancing.
Credit: facebook.com Château Hermitage de Combas, Servian, FranceChâteau Hermitage de Combas, Servian, France
Château Hermitage de Combas, Servian, France (prices and photos)
The Château Hermitage de Combas is located among more than 123 hectares of vineyards in the south of France and has been home to a number of famous people, including the playwright/actor Molière, who is also believed to have acted in the château. Although it seems that this chateau would be well beyond the budgets of most, it is actually quite reasonable, starting at around $125 per night. The château offers weekly or weekend stays in one of 25 flats with full kitchens, and during the holidays, each one, along with the main entrance and staircase, is richly decorated. Some include rustic wooden beams and cosy fireplaces. Guests can also swim in the heated pool, play a game on the tennis court, and dine in the on-site restaurant that is famous for its chocolate, including everything from the Show-Colate dish, billed as a "chocolate greed anarchy," to ultra-moist chocolate cake and chocolate fondue.
Credit: shamrockvacations.comAbbeyglen Castle Hotel: Clifden, IrelandAbbeyglen Castle Hotel: Clifden, Ireland
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden, Ireland (Prices and photos)
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is set amongst picturesque gardens in the heart of Connemara's Twelve Bens. It is renowned for its luxurious yet affordable accommodation, which includes fireplaces, four-poster beds and stunning views overlooking the charming town of Clifden. This castle doesn't feel stuffy - the staff are exceptionally warm and friendly, and regale guests with fascinating stories of its history and the surrounding region. Staying over Christmas, you can choose from special packages that include not only a champagne reception, but elaborate breakfast and dinner meals in the award-winning on-site restaurant. Look forward to delicious items such as fresh local fish, live lobster and Connemara lamb. Afterwards, it is always fun to enjoy an evening of entertainment around the piano, where you are sure to hear not only traditional Irish tunes, but also holiday music.
Credit: facebook.comSwinton Park Castle, Mansham, EnglandSwinton Park Castle, Mansham, England
Swinton Park Castle, Mansham, England (prices and photos)
Swinton Park, the ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family, has been a family home since the late 19th-century, but the first part of the castle dates back two centuries earlier, extended castellated and furnished during both the Georgian and Victorian eras. Converted into a 31-bedroom luxury hotel, it sits in the middle of a park and is complete with turrets and imposing staircases leading up to enormous bedrooms. Christmas brings a host of special treats, as well as contemplating the (hopefully) snow-covered Yorkshire countryside, guests will be treated to traditional afternoon tea and a pianist on Christmas Eve. The evening will begin with canapés and champagne, along with a local choir singing Christmas carols, followed by dinner at the Samuel Restaurant. On Christmas Day, Father Christmas is waiting to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and distribute gifts from under the tree. The holiday continues with a Christmas lunch and an evening buffet.
Credit: facebook.comCarberry Tower Mansion House, Musselburgh, ScotlandCarberry Tower Mansion House, Musselburgh, Scotland
Carberry Tower Mansion House, Musselburgh, Scotland (prices and photos)
Located just seven kilometres from Edinburgh, and set amongst 35 acres of tranquil countryside, Carberry Tower Mansion House offers an ideal holiday castle retreat in a house with a rich history and many luxurious amenities. In December, visitors have the opportunity to escape to this private mansion as if it were their own to experience a traditional Christmas in a glorious winter setting. Curl up by the crackling fire after enjoying the spectacular Christmas feast, and participate in fun and festive themed treasure hunts and toast marshmallows on the fire pit. If the weather gets a little too cold, you can always play pool or head to the beautiful library and relax with one of the thousands of books.
Credit: facebook.comKing John's Castle, Wiltshire, EnglandKing John's Castle, Wiltshire, England
King John's Castle, Wiltshire, England (Prices and photos)
King John's Castle, also known as Devizes Castle, dates back to the 11th century. The first castle on this site was built in 1080, although the current winding, crenellated version seen today was built in 1830. This castle that is truly fit for a king can accommodate up to 13 guests, and all rooms are decorated with a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings. You will have the castle to yourself, which comes complete with a well-equipped kitchen to prepare fantastic holiday meals. Daily maid service and all the logs you'll need to keep the fires burning are included in the weekly Christmas/New Year price of around $15,100. While this certainly isn't cheap, if you can split it with family and friends, it might be a little more financially feasible.
Credit: facebook.comLough Eske Castle, Co DonegalLough Eske Castle, Co Donegal
Lough Eske Castle, Co Donegal, Ireland (Prices and photos)
This stunning five-star luxury hotel is located along the shores of Lough Eske, close to Donegal's fabulous Blue Stack mountains. The Tudor-baronial castle is surrounded by extensive gardens and grounds and boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Beautifully restored by its current owners in 2007, it has become a frequent prize-winner. Not only can you leave the turkey basting and tree trimming to someone else, you can expect plenty of pampering in the decadent spa that includes a sauna, steam room and infinity pool overlooking the garden. While you'll appreciate the secluded quiet of a country retreat, you can explore the city within easy reach. The castle offers a special three-night Christmas package that includes Christmas Eve dinner, mulled wine and mince pie, as well as Christmas lunches, an evening buffet and carol singing.
Credit: facebook.comCulzean Castle, Ayrshire, ScotlandCulzean Castle, Ayrshire, Scotland
Culzean Castle, Ayrshire, Scotland (prices and photos)
This breathtaking seaside castle sits atop a cliff in the Scottish countryside, offering incredible views across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran. Dating back to the 16th-century, the Kennedy family erected a central tower here that was extended in 1772, resulting in the castle that stands today. In 1945, the Kennedys donated the castle to the Scottish Land Trust and gave the entire top floor to General Eisenhower as a gift to thank him for America's efforts in World War II. After becoming President of the United States, Eisenhower often used the castle as a retreat, but today the top-floor flats serve as luxury accommodation, with six suites available for rent per night. Around the holidays you can be sure there will be plenty of sparkle, and the special Magical Castle event held in December offers a true Christmas celebration with festive music, crafts, mulled wine, and more.
Credit: facebook.com Inverlochy Castle, Inverlochy Castle,
Inverlochy Castle, Fort William, Scotland (prices and photos)
Inverlochy goes all out for the holidays. Located just outside the Highland town of Fort William in a particularly charming and romantic spot, the former baronial mansion has 17 rooms, all with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and grounds. During the winter, with the Nevis ski slope just outside the door, you'll have easy access to snowboarding and skiing. Numerous Christmas activities are also planned, starting with a champagne reception on Christmas Eve, followed by a music-filled dinner in the Great Hall. On Christmas morning, Father Christmas arrives in the room with a glass of champagne and presents for each guest. Of course, the Christmas dinner also awaits, accompanied by live music.
Credit: facebook.comBovey Castle
Bovey Castle, Devon, England (Prices and photos)
If you're looking for a family-friendly country house to spend Christmas in, Bovey Castle is ideal. It transforms into a festive retreat throughout December with comfy armchairs set against tables laden with nuts and oranges, its rooms lit up with beautiful Christmas trees and glittering decorations. Children will love seeing Dartmoor Hawking, a school of falconry, visit the castle every day, sharing an exceptional collection of birds ranging from baby owls to magnificent eagles. Parents can relax in the luxurious spa, indulging in a variety of treatments or soaking in the relaxing waters of the Jacuzzi.A special three-night Christmas break includes accommodation in one of the 63 rooms, plus all meals, entertainment and a selection of activities.
Credit: KFCSpikeAshford Castle, Cong, IrelandAshford Castle, Cong, Ireland
Ashford Castle, Cong, Ireland (Prices and photos)
Ashford Castle is legendary for its Christmas festivities. This luxurious five-star hotel stands on a vast 350-acre estate overlooking the sparkling blue waters of Lough Corrib. Originally built in 1228, the estate has had a number of owners, including the Guinness family, along with several transformations. In 1939, Ernest Guinness sold the property to the Irish government, and not long after the castle was doubled in size and transformed into a luxurious hotel, known for its high-end accommodation. The castle's two-night package includes a welcome reception with mulled wine and mince pie, a Christmas Eve cocktail reception followed by dinner in the George V restaurant and even a visit from Father Christmas, who will distribute presents to all guests. Caroling with seasonal songs and music on Christmas Eve, while Christmas Day starts with a bang, including morning golf and even a cruise on Lough Corrib, with traditional music and hot whisky on board. This adventure is followed by a festive buffet lunch, a treasure hunt and a black tie gala dinner. Afterwards, you can dance the night away to live music before falling into your cosy bed.
Credit: facebook.com Fonab Castle, Perthshire, Scotland Fonab Castle, Perthshire, Scotland
Fonab Castle, Perthshire, Scotland (prices and photos)
Situated on the banks of Loch Faskally in the heart of Perthshire, Scotland, this castle has been converted by the Clark family into a luxury hotel with 26 rooms. Guests can choose between original 'Classic Castle' rooms or modern 'Woodland Rooms' that offer stunning views of the beautiful Scottish landscape of lochs, rivers, mountains and forests. During the holidays, you will be greeted by the resident piper with a welcome malt and shortbread biscuit. A four-course dinner is served on Christmas Eve, while mulled wine and mince pies are available for evening service after the clock in one of the local churches. At midday on Christmas Day, join the staff for a glass of champagne or a festive cocktail followed by a Christmas lunch.
Credit: Michael ColinLangley Castle, NorthumberlandLangley Castle, Northumberland
Langley Castle, Northumberland, England (prices and photos)
This 14thcentury castle is set in a 12-acre wooded estate and offers elegant en-suite rooms, some of which include saunas, hot tubs and four-poster beds. This year, the castle will prepare a special Christmas gift, combining traditional celebrations with its usual standards of cuisine and service, including plenty of pampering from the attentive staff. The 'Langley Christmas Experience' will include accommodation, breakfast and full Northumbrian dinner for three days, starting on Christmas Eve. Also included will be cocktail parties, a Christmas lunch and lots of family fun and entertainment. I look forward to a sumptuous menu that incorporates traditional recipes with innovative ideas that are sure to make for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Credit: images.pestana.comCastelo de Obidos PousadaCastelo de Obidos Pousada
Castelo de Obidos Pousada, Obidos, Portugal (Prices and photos)
Every year during the holidays, Obidos, one of the best preserved medieval towns in Portugal, creates a Christmas village surrounding the magnificent Castelo de Obidos Pousado, enhancing its already magical atmosphere. Known by locals as 'Vila Natal', the Christmas village includes a Christmas market, festive food stalls, ice skating, equestrian rides and all sorts of shows and performances. Children can also meet Father Christmas at Santa's House. One of the best ways to experience this festive celebration is to stay in the Pousada itself. Considered one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, it was originally built by the Moors in 713. In 1148, Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, conquered the city and its castle. It underwent a series of transformations, including a renovation around the early part of the 14th century. By the 20th-century, it was in ruins, but the government repaired it, retaining much of its unique medieval design and turned it into one of the nation's finest hotels. It offers an intimate experience with only nine rooms, which means you will have to book well in advance, but it is definitely worth the wait. The views overlooking the city are particularly stunning when lit by the festival, which uses projections and lighting to create colourful spectacles on the castle and village walls.
Credit: facebook.comRuthin Castle Hotel
Ruthin Castle Hotel, Ruthin, Wales (Prices and photos)
This magnificent romantic hotel was originally built by Edward I in 1282. Steeped in history, it is set in acres of parkland adjacent to the Clwydian Range in North Wales and is renowned for its exquisite cuisine and special spa. A Christmas getaway here includes a warm Welsh winter tea served in a smoke-free room, followed by mulled wine and roasted chestnuts accompanied by carolers' holiday songs. A four-course medieval dinner, complete with an evening of entertainment is offered for dinner, and at the end of the night you can warm up by the fireplace with hot wine or mulled wine with complimentary marshmallows.Christmas Day is also full of treats, from breakfast with warm mince pies to a traditional Christmas lunch, as well as Christmas tea and cakes in the afternoon.