8 Places You Can Rent a Castle for Less Than a Hotel
Have you ever wanted to spend the night in a castle? Such over-the-top properties may seem out of reach, but did you know that with a little planning, you can rent a castle for less than a hotel?
I’m serious. You could totally do this.
Okay, for some of these estates, you may need to bring a dozen of your closest friends to make the numbers work.
But imagine how fun (and dramatic) it would be for a reunion of those old college friends. You know, the ones scattered across the country? The ones you always say you’re going to get back together with? One day?
Or – what if you and your friends started planning a girls getaway NOW. You’d hang out, catch up, shop, take a French cooking class and get massages. And then you’d come home to – YOUR CASTLE.
You get the idea.
A few of these are also perfect for a romantic, just-the-two-of-you getaway. And yes – for less than the price of a hotel.
(You’re welcome.)
Let’s start with a fairy-tale château in France…
1) Château de Barbirey
Barbirey-sur-Ouche, Burgundy, France
This French château can accommodate more than 20 people and is just a 20 minute drive from Dijon. The château’s garden covers 18 hectares and is a registered “Jardins Remarquable” while the house itself is considered a historic monument. Rent a castle like this for your wedding and you may just spend your honeymoon here as well!
The château has 10 bedrooms, but a total of 16 beds, as well as 8 bathrooms. At $6,486 per week, that works out to a less than $100 per couple, per night, for ten lucky couples. Here’s the link on Airbnb: Chateau de Barbirey
2) LA SERENELLA West Wing
San Pietro In Cariano, Veneto, Italy
LA SERENELLA West Wing is the ideal Italian vacation accommodation for a large house party, a business meeting or a family gathering. Check out the dramatic facade.
The home has seven bedrooms (ten beds) and 4.5 baths. The cost per night is $468. Imagine that split between just four couples and it works out well. Now add three more couples and you’re almost making money! And if you’re ready to spend those extra dollars you’ve saved, the owners can arrange private jet transport from anywhere in the world! Here’s the direct link to this property on Airbnb: LA SERENELLA West Wing.
3) Domaine Saint Roch
Couvin, Région Wallonne, Belgium
This estate is a former forge from the 18th century. Some buildings have been renovated to accommodate groups and families in natural (and historic) comfort.
This property boasts ten bedrooms (16 beds) and more than eight bathrooms.
The bedrooms are quite modern and simple. The place is also eco-friendly And the grounds – all 50 acres of them – look amazing.
The weekly price is $4,338 – which works out to around $72 per room for six nights, if you fill all the rooms! The direct Airbnb link is here: DOMAINE SAINT ROCH-35 lits-
4) Ballintotis Castle, East Cork
Castlemartyr, Cork, Ireland
Ballintotis castle is a great place to be locked in a tower with your one true love. Situated on the Ballintotis Loop walking and cycling trail, this castle tower features open countryside, traditional farmsteads, crops and farm animals as well as abundant wildlife. A truly romantic getaway…
There is only one bedroom and one bath (plus an extra bed if you’re bringing baby.) But it can be yours for just $351 a week! Direct Airbnb Link: Ballintotis Castle, East Cork
5) 16th Century Castle in Trossachs
Aberfoyle, Scotland
Nestled in the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Forest lies Duchray Castle, a 500 year old tower house linked with Rob Roy. Set in 90 acres and newly renovated it offers luxury accommodation and a warm welcome in a stunning, secluded location.
From setting to decor, this is classic castle luxury and just a tad more pricey. But still less than almost any luxury hotel. There are four bedrooms and four baths and with a price per night of $811, that works out to $202 per couple. Direct Link via Airbnb: 16th Century Castle in Trossachs.
This one may be my favorite – mostly because I can totally see myself soaking in this lovely tub!
6) Château-Mosel Valley – a private suite
Sierck-les-Bains, France
This is a quiet apartment, in a private XVIII-Century Manor house surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the Mosel river. Though it’s located in France, it’s just 900 meters to the Luxembourg border and 1200 meters to the German one. Which makes it a great base camp for your European tours.
Here, you’re renting a one-bedroom apartment in the château, at a price per night of $111. The apartment is best suited for 2 adults, however a place for up to 2 children can be organized at a small extra fee. Direct Link via Airbnb: Château-Mosel valley private suite.
7) Spectacular Ancient Manor – a private apartment
Monselice, Veneto, Italy
Castello di Lispida was once a monastery and you can rent an apartment within its ancient walls. This home stay is on the ground floor and faces the garden. It’s furnished with antique pieces and carefully restored. Tastefully furnished rooms come with a variety of modern comforts.
The apartment has two bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms. With a weekly price of $961, two couples (or singles) could rent this apartment for just around $80 per room, per night.
Nearby is the Castle of Monselice, the medieval village of Arquà Petrarca, the cities of Padova and Venice and many other cultural opportunities. Direct Link via Airbnb: Spectacular ancient manor, Castle.
8) Rental of the medieval Keep
La Flocellière, Pays de la Loire, France
The Grand Finale is this very special and real medieval tower to rent for a family or group of 10. The medieval dinning room with its large fireplace is definitely unique and the medieval garden has a splendid view of the heart of the Vendee.
It’s located next to a little market town – and information about this property appeared in documents dating back to the 11th century.
This home has five bedrooms and three baths. With a weekly rate of $2,636, you’re looking at just $87 per room per night.
The vicomtesse Erika Vignial and her husband, a lover of history, even welcome their guests to dine with them and are available to offer advice on discovering the region. Direct Link via Airbnb: Rental of the medieval Keep.
So – what do you think. Is there a castle in your future? Do you need more to choose from? Here you go!
If you end up staying in one of these historic houses, please let me know. I’d love to hear your stories!
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And if you still haven’t gotten your fill, consider these coffee-table style books, a well-written tome about the real Downton Abbey and a wall calendar filled with pictures and stories of castles around the world…
