Live Like a Royal: 6 Castles That You Could Rent for a Luxurious Holiday Abroad - Travel

6 castles available for rent that will have you living like a modern day royal

Palazzo Odescalchi; IMAGE: CNN Traveler, Roberta Valerio
Palazzo Odescalchi; IMAGE: CNN Traveler, Roberta Valerio


Palazzo Odescalchi, Rome, Italy

The 16th century palazzo located at the Italian capital is one of the finest, most-opulent rental spaces in the city. Decorated with over 1,100 square feet of marble, 660 feet of Rubelli and San Leucio silk damasks, ancient Greek vases, heirlooms from the Odescalchi family, and paintings by Italian Baroque artist Bernardo Strozzi, the home looks as if it comes straight out the legendary stories of Casanova. Breathtaking views of the city may be enjoyed at the main balcony overlooking La Basilica dei Santi XIII Apostoli. Owned by Princess Maria Pace Odescalchi, they palace is equipped with a staff that includes a butler and maid. Additional concierge services (at an extra cost) is also available. Coined as the “Little Black Book of the Odescalchi family”, the concierge service allows guests access into the family’s contacts of artists, fashion designers, restaurant maître d’s, and other city experts that will surely make their Roman holiday a memorable one. The palace is available by request by emailing [email protected].

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/inside-the-palazzo-odescalchi-romes-most-opulent-villa

Lismore Castle; IMAGE: celticcastles.com
Lismore Castle; IMAGE: celticcastles.com


Lismore Castle, Lismore, Ireland

When the Duke of Devonshire’s family is not making use of the Lismore Castle, it becomes open to rent, for anybody who can pay its hefty price tag. Apart from the Irish royals, many have occupied the Lismore for luxury vacations, including the likes of Hollywood legend Fred Astaire and former American President John F. Kennedy. Dating back to 1170, the palace and its 15 sprawling bedrooms are guarded by Denis Nevin, the estate’s butler for over 35 years. Denis is happy to assist guests with anything, and also answer any questions they may have on the palace’s rich history. Around the grounds, one can enjoy works from such esteemed artists like Antony Gormley, Van Dyck, and Ai Weiweis. Other amenities include ensuite bathrooms, high-speed WI-FI, and a cinema.

https://www.lismorecastle.com

Castle Mango; IMAGE: ExcellenceLuxuryVillas.com
Castle Mango; IMAGE: ExcellenceLuxuryVillas.com


Castle Mago, Tuscany, Italy

Once the home of the Grand Duke of Tuscany Leopold II, Castle Mago is a 16th century home ideal for vacationers looking to spend their holiday on rich wine country. Located between the two Italian cities of Lucca and Sienna, Castle Mango sleeps 20 people within its 13 expansive bedrooms. Each bedroom is decorated in a traditional manner, although fitted with the modern conveniences of today. Enjoy the luxury mini-bar, air conditioner, safe, and digital television under a ceiling of hand painted, antique frescoes. The palace is ideal for summer of wine tasting and alfresco dining. The grounds are populated with lines of cypress and pine trees that is not only aromatic, but a sight to behold. Afternoons can be spent in the Jacuzzi beside the swimming pool, shaded by neighboring olive groves. For additional costs, guests may opt to request for a cater to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner. Other services include helicopter rental, VIP car services, hot air balloon trips, wine tours, and even a babysitter for evenings the adults want to discover the charming Italian towns that surround them.

https://www.excellenceluxuryvillas.com/rent-villas-chalets-chateaux-safari-lodges/italy/castle-mago-italy

Chateau Chamborigaud; IMAGE: odis.homeaway.com
Chateau Chamborigaud; IMAGE: odis.homeaway.com


Chateau Chamborigaud, Languedoc, France

Chateau Chamboriguad is a Disney-style palatial home located at Languedoc, France. Built in 1575, the castle’s impressive towers face the 5-acre grounds, which includes views of the Cevennes mountains and Luech river. Inside, one can find an eclectic mix of modern and medieval-style decorations and furnishings, 10 bedrooms, countless chandeliers and a spiral staircase that will have one feeling like Belle from Beauty and the Beast. An hour’s drive from the Nimes airport, it is a scenic ride up the French countryside leading to the chateau. Chamboriguad includes large terraces for outdoor dining and a heated swimming pool. For those looking for quick excursions to Paris, the train station is only a 15-minute walk away. The charming village close by is complete with quaint restaurants for those looking to discover the province’s fascinating food culture.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalReview-g3427129-d12890002-Chateau_Chamborigaud-Lac_Delage_Quebec.html

Devizes Castle; IMAGE: odis.homeaway.com
Devizes Castle; IMAGE: odis.homeaway.com


Devizes Castle, Wiltshire, England

Built in 1080 by Osmund, Bishiop of Salisbury, the Devizes Castle in Wiltshire has a long and curious history. In 1113, it was burnt down and rebuilt again by Roger, Bishop of Salisbury and completed by 1120. Later on, it was used as a prison by Henry II and Henry III, before it was taken by Catharine of Argon (the first wife of Henry VIII). Over the years, many royals and important individuals have occupied the palace grounds (as both prisoners and residents), including the influential Hubert de Burgh, 1st Earl of Kent, and the Royalist Troops (under Sir William Waller) during 1643. Now divided into three homes (the main part of the castle is privately owned), other parts have been made available for rental. Many guests at home rental website Airbnb have given positive feedback on the palace’s services, spacious rooms, and accommodating hosts. Vacations have sighted that there is no better or exciting experience like getting lost within the palace’s winding staircases, high-towers, and ancient gardens.

https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/21891064 

Stok Palace Heritage Hotel; IMAGE: stockpalageheritage.com
Stok Palace Heritage Hotel; IMAGE: stockpalageheritage.com


Stok Palace Heritage Hotel, Leh, India

For those looking to stay in Asia, the Stok Palace Heritage Hotel’s six suites can be completely rented out for a memorable getaway. Located at the Indian Himalayan region of Ladakh, the palace is decorated with brightly painted frescoes and woodwork. Built by Ladki craftsmen in 1820, the hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere for those trying to get away from their lives form big cities. Outside the window are panoramic views of pristine natural landscapes such as mountains covered in clouds and white snow. Still occasionally occupied by His Excellency King Jigmed Wangchuk Namgyal and his family, the service at the landmark hotel ensures top quality. After quiet afternoons relaxing at the suites, one can simply walk down to the dining hall and enjoy a fine dining experience of only the best that Tibetan and Indian cuisine can offer.

https://www.stokpalaceheritage.com/ 

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