While quite different than typical mountain, safari, or beach destinations, honeymoon castles are enchanting places full of history and modern ammenities. Learn about the history of the accommodation as you relax and enjoy one-on-one time with your new spouse in a fairytale-like setting.
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Is a Castle a Good Honeymoon Destination?
A castle hotel provides one of the most uniquely romantic atmospheres. Steeped in history and filled with fairytale-like charm, this honeymoon will transport you to another world where you can enjoy an unforgettable royal holiday.
A castle hotel is a boutique or luxury hotel set in manicured estates or parklands that have undergone renovations. Aside from providing you and your loved one with an elegant stay and gorgeous 360-degree vistas, this lodging blends old aesthetics, décor, and modern amenities. Think turrets, moats, crystal chandeliers, four-poster beds, saunas, and hot tubs.
With several things to do and explore, a castle honeymoon is a perfect way to commence your married life.
What Activities Can You Do While Honeymooning in a Castle?
Apart from embracing the stunning views of the structure itself and its surroundings, a castle offers an array of activities that can make your trip utterly memorable. While your itinerary will depend on your specific destination, there are itinerary items you can expect to do while on this kind of honeymoon.
For instance, you can take guided tours of the castle and learn more about its history, culture, traditions (e.g., music and dance), local legends, and myths. Knowing who stayed there and its significance in history can add a beautiful kind of intrigue to your stay. You can also stroll around the premises and gardens, enjoy spa treatments, or enjoy a fine dining experience in a grand dining room.
If you seek adventure, you can go horseback riding, hike nearby trails, play at a golf course, or take part in falconry or archery. Many castles also offer car rentals to help you take scenic road trips and visit other attractions nearby.
Is It Expensive to Stay in Honeymoon Castles?
Though the final figure will depend on various factors such as location, time of honeymoon, and level of luxury, you and your loved one may pay about $2,000 to $5,000 for seven days.
Some castles offer an ultra-luxurious stay, while others can cater to those with smaller budgets. There are also locations with special packages wherein food and drinks are already included in your price.
How to Plan a Budget Castle Honeymoon
- Choose your destination wisely and choose a castle somewhere cheap to fly to.
- Additionally, check the currency rates and go where the US dollar is strongest.
- Look for all-inclusive accommodations. This is cost-effective and hassle-free.
- Opt for rooms at lower price points instead of a luxurious suite.
- Avoid peak travel seasons when prices are high and the competition for bookings is tight.
- Book early to take advantage of lower rates.
Top 7 Castles to Stay In On Your Honeymoon
The Inn at Erlowest, New York
This romantic castle set in the gorgeous Lake George is a Queen Anne-style stone castle built in 1898. Apart from offering breathtaking views of the lake, they also have modern amenities such as a fitness center and game room.
This is the local destination for couples wanting to have a luxurious castle honeymoon. The inn offers room service, fine dining, and package specials. You can also enjoy water sports such as boating, kayaking, and jet skiing.
How to arrive: Fly into the Albany International Airport, which is 50 miles south of Lake George, and rent a car or book a shuttle to the castle.
When to visit: May to September
Ashford Castle, Ireland
When Ernest Guinness sold this 13th-century castle to the Irish government in the 1930s, they transformed it into a sprawling hotel that attracts honeymooners from the US and beyond.
It’s a 350-acre property in County Mayo that offers a variety of amenities — from original claw-foot tubs and fireplaces to stately rooms. You can experience activities such as boat riding, golf, and falconry.
How to arrive: You can fly into the Ireland West Airport Knock, the nearest airport, or to Dublin and ride a train to County Mayo.
When to visit: March to June or early September
Dalhousie Castle Hotel, Scotland
This is another 13th-century castle you can book, but this time it’s located in the spectacular country of Scotland, specifically in the town of Bonnyrigg. This property elegantly sits on eleven acres of private parklands and magical valleys.
Throughout its 800-year history, it has welcomed important figures, including King Edward I. From relaxing spa treatments to grand dinners fit for royalty to fishing, there are many things to keep you and your loved one busy.
How to arrive: Book a flight to Edinburgh, then ride a train, hop on a bus, or grab a taxi.
When to visit: January to December
Chateau de Bagnols, France
Located in Lyon, France, this 800-year-old castle is a magical setting for a honeymoon. This castle has a moat, a drawbridge, and majestic towers, offering panoramic views of verdant vineyards and forests.
Lady Hamlyn discovered it around three decades ago and restored it to the grand lodging it is today. Things to do include biking, wine tasting, riding horse-drawn carriages, and exploring nearby medieval towns.
How to arrive: Arrive by plane at Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport, then ride the bus or taxi, or do a combination of a tram, a train, and a bus.
When to visit: September and October
Amberley Castle, England
In this 12th-century manor, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into the historical past as it boasts sturdy stone fortifications and a portcullis (a strong gate) that is lowered night after night.
Unwind at its bar lounge, wander through well-maintained gardens, and play tennis, croquet, or golf. In less than a one-hour drive, you can visit the charming seaside town of Brighton.
How to arrive: You can book a flight to London Gatwick or Heathrow Airport, then hop on a train to Amberley Village.
When to visit: July to September
Pousada Castelo Obidos, Portugal
Blending 14th-century medieval-style accommodations with contemporary amenities, spending your honeymoon here means you could stay in a beautiful room complete with stone walls, chandeliers, and a four-poster bed.
Apart from hiking and horseback riding, you can check out nearby cafes and restaurants. The walled city of Obidos is a charming and well-preserved medieval city. You can also visit the nearby historic city of Caldas da Rainha.
How to arrive: Arrive at the Lisbon airport, and from there, transport options include a bus, a train, a taxi, or a car rental.
When to visit: April to October
Castle of the Bishops Sigüenza, Spain
This castle goes back as far as the 5th century and is situated in the province of Guadalajara. It was once an abandoned castle but has been revamped into a popular hotel that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of metropolitan Spain.
One of its best features is a banquet hall decorated with suits of armor. When you book your stay here, you must visit the old town of Sigüenza, Sigüenza Cathedral, and the city’s main square.
How to arrive: Fly into Madrid and ride a train or bus or self-drive.
When to visit: July to mid-August
What to Pack For a Castle Honeymoon
Honeymoon castles are picturesque places. Your packing list will ultimately depend on the location and season, but the key is wearing something comfortable you want to be photographed in.
Many castles require formal wear in areas like elegant dining rooms and event places. Also, don’t forget to bring layers, as many castles tend to be cool and drafty, especially if you visit during the off-season. Meanwhile, if you’re doing any excursions, pack appropriate attire, whether hiking gear or swimwear.