For the royal treatment, spend the night in a castle. Here are five to consider.
1.Castello di Casole; Tuscany, Italy.
Stay in a reconstructed farmhouse surrounded by vineyards or opt for a suite adjacent to the pool and spa in the center of the 4,200-acre estate.
Oozing with charm, the restored castle and grounds, dating to 998, provide a fairytale backdrop for a family holiday that might include horseback riding, fishing, hiking, yoga in a restored church, exploring neighboring villages or learning to create local specialties. In the warmer months, enjoy evening concerts on the lawn as the sun drops below the rolling Tuscan hills.
Contact: (888) 548-9429; castellodicasole.com.
2.Oheka Castle; Huntington, N.Y.
This French chateau-inspired castle was built in 1917 as the summer retreat for financier and philanthropist Otto Kahn. Docent-led tours provide visitors a glimpse into the Roaring ’20s, when the mansion was the scene of lavish parties attended by Hollywood luminaries and royalty. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool or private beach, explore the extensive gardens, play tennis or work up a sweat in the fitness center.
Contact: (631) 659-1400; oheka.com.
3.Ashford Castle; Mayo, Ireland.
Shed your armor and relax within this enchanting 350-acre landscape. With 800-year-old turrets as your backdrop, fish in nearby ponds and rivers, ride horses or refine your skills on the nine-hole private golf course.
Later, discover the art of falconry. You’ll sleep the night away in medieval style with modern, five-star overtones. Many of the 83 guest rooms retain centuries-old details. Rooms have Wi-Fi and interactive TV.
Contact: Leading Hotels of the World, (800) 745-8883;ashford.ie.
4.Thornewood Castle; Lakewood, Wash.
History buffs will like to know that the owner once bought a 400-year-old Elizabethan manor in England and had it disassembled and shipped to the U.S. Today, guests 12 and older can get immersed in the Tudor Gothic style while exploring the sunken English garden and playing lawn games. Located on the shores of American Lake and in the shadow of Mount Rainier, guests can access nearby boat rentals or an equestrian center for added fun.
Contact: (253) 584-4393; thornewoodcastle.com.
5.The Castle; Mount Savage, Md.
In the picturesque landscape between Cumberland and Frostburg, you’ll find the Castle, built in the likeness of Scotland’s Craig Castle. The original structure was built by a local mining company and later converted by a Scottish businessman to resemble the impressive buildings in his home country. Choose to relax indoors or explore the countryside.
Contact: (301) 264-4645; castlebandb.com.
Travel, Pages 49 on 02/16/2014