Beautiful castles around the world – Part 3

When you think of a castle many things come to mind. Which country has the most castles, where is the largest castle or where is the oldest castle. But we wanted to find where are the most beautiful castles around the world, so we reached out to have some travel bloggers who have visited them and asked them to share.

Heidelberg Castle, Germany by Lyn, A Hole in my Shoe

Heidelberg Castle sits majestically above the old town, overlooking the Neckar River. The red sandstone castle dates back to the 13^th century and despite being a castle ruin, it is one of the most beautiful castles around the world and must-see landmarks in Germany.

The only way to see inside the ruins is on a tour and within the castle walls there is much to see. Heidelberg’s famous bridge, the Neckar River and the city’s red rooftops make for a spectacular sight from the castle, and is almost as breathtaking as the castle is from the city below. A visit to the castle, if not already staying in Heidelberg, is very doable as a daytrip from Frankfurt.

The castle is a combination of several buildings surrounding an inner courtyard, built in a haphazard mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles and part of its façade bears biblical and mythological figures. In the cellar of the castle is the Great Heidelberg tun, a 7 metre high wine vat with a capacity of 221,726 ltires is the world’s largest wine barrel.

Built in 1214 and expanded into two castles 1294, the castle suffered from one of the most destructive conflicts in European history during the 30 year war. The upper castle was severely damaged by lightening in 1537 and again in 1764. The French ordered the castle be destroyed and the Fat Tower was blown off in a fire in 1689 and a few years later the surviving towers and walls were blown up. Many of the homes were built from stones, timber and iron repurposed from the castle remains. For the most part the castle never regained its original glory and remains in ruins today, although there were some attempts to partially rebuild.

As the castle is high above the town, a ride on the funicular will take you to the castle and the ticket price covers access to the grounds.

The once mighty castle, beaten by the storms, now sits in ruins, deserted but beautiful.

Boldt Castle, USA by Mary, Calculated Traveller Magazine

Located on Heart Island within the Thousand Islands New York lies Boldt Castle. Once owned by millionaire George C. Boldt of the famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, construction of the castle began in the early 1900s as the summer house for the love of his life; his wife Louise.

Sadly, Louise Boldt suddenly died a few years after construction began in 1904. Heartbroken, Boldt abandoned the entire project and never returned to Heart Island again.

The castle sat abandoned until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took over the property in 1977 to restore years of neglect and preserve its history. To this day, the building remains unfinished with many of the upper floors of the castle vacant.

With 120 rooms, the six-story stone castle contains tunnels, stained glass, marble tiles, exquisite woodworking, stone turrets, beautiful Italy-inspired gardens, and a boathouse. The finished rooms of the castle are beautifully decorated to fit the time period even though it was never inhabited.

Boat tours to the island castle are available from the cities of Alexandria Bay or Clayton, New York.  Canadians can obtain tours from the city of Gananoque or Rockport, Ontario (Canadian Passports are required).

Château de Chantilly, France by Elisa, World in Paris

The town of Chantilly boasts one of the most beautiful castles near Paris, Château de Chantilly. The train ride from Paris to Chantilly only takes 40 minutes so it is a good alternative to a day trip to Versailles from Paris.

Château de Chantilly, is a fairy-tale construction emerging from a lake and surrounded by spectacular gardens. The current building was commissioned in the XIX century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was totally destroyed during the French Revolution.

Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used his new home to showcase all his artworks to the point that Chantilly is today the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre. The castle’s library and reading room are also worth the visit with more than 60.000 volumes, some of them very rare. Finally, don’t miss the French gardens, by André Le Notre, the famous landscape-designer who also designed Versailles Gardens.

Castle of the Assasins, Iran by Ellis, Backpack Adventures

There is not much left of the castle of the Assassins in the Alamut Valley  in Iran and its ruins leave much to the imagination. Regardless, it is one of the most beautiful castles in the middle east. Most of all, because of its spectacular fairytale-like location on the top of a hill above the cherry blossom village of gazor khan overlooking the scenic valley below.

Alamut means eagle’s nest and the story goes that a Persian king followed an eagle that landed on the top of a hill in a remote valley in northwestern Iran. The king liked the place so much that he built his castle on this exact location, hoping that the mountains would protect him. Later, the Assassins took hold of the castle. This secret Islamic sect that fought against many invaders, developed the castle into a completely self-sufficient complex with irrigation systems, gardens and libraries.

Unfortunately the castle was eventually destroyed by the Mongols. It’s remote location means that few tourists make it all the way there. Furthermore, it is a 1 hour steep hike up the mountain. But those who make it will be rewarded with an insight into rural life, Iranian hospitality and stunning mountain views. It is at its most beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom.

Bracciano Castle, Italy by Annalisa, Travel, Connect, Experience

The Bracciano Castle is one of the most underrated historical landmarks of central Italy. The castle is set in the natural frame of the Regional Park of Bracciano and Martignano, featuring two lakes of volcanic origin and picturesque villages that provide a getaway from the nearby bustling Rome. The Bracciano Castle dominates the Lake Bracciano and blends into the landscape charmingly. It’s the only prominent structure in the idyllic scene with the blue, crystal-clear lake and the lush vegetation on the hills surrounding it.

The Orsini, one of the most influential families of the Italian Renaissance, erected the Bracciano Castle in the 15th Century while the Odescalchi took it over in 1696. The castle is now a museum and a wedding location. If you’d love to know why Hollywood actor Tom Cruise chose this place to celebrate his wedding, plan a day-trip to Bracciano. The basic €8.5 ticket gains you access to more than 20 rooms of the castle with original furniture and frescoes. The Armor’s Hall will take you back in time while the views on the lake will take your breath away. When the visit to the Bracciano Castle is over, the ancient town of Bracciano awaits you with its relaxed wineries, cafes, and restaurants.

Pena Palace, Sintra Portugal by Claire, Tales of a Backpacker

Pena Palace is just one of the magnificent castles in Sintra Portugal.  The Cultural Landscape of Sintra is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and also includes the Palace of Sintra and the Moorish Castle, but Pena Palace is the most famous and the most colourful castle in Sintra.

A chapel has been on the site of Pena Palace since the Middle Ages, but the current castle was commissioned by King Ferdinand and built between 1842 and 1854.  The palace is one of the best examples of 19^th Century Romanticist architecture, and it is unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

Brightly coloured red and yellow walls, vault arches, and medieval and Islamic elements all combine to create a magical fairy-tale castle like no other.  Pena Palace is also set in a large park and gardens, which you can explore.  The palace sits high on a hill above Sintra, and the distinctive towers are visible for miles around – even from Lisbon on a clear day!

To visit the palace, there are two levels of entry tickets; one for the outdoor areas including the palace terraces and gardens, and another which also includes entry to see inside the palace.  The outdoor areas have more than enough to keep you busy, and the views from the terrace are stunning.

Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon by Wendy, The Nomadic Vegan

Looking out over the city from the ramparts of St. George Castle (Castelo de São Jorge in Portuguese) is one of the best experiences you can have in Lisbon. This is certainly not a secret, as it’s the most visited monument in Portugal, but the space is large enough that it can accommodate lots of visitors without feeling overcrowded.

The imposing crenelated fortification walls look much as they did when they were constructed by the Moors who ruled these lands from the 7th to the 11th centuries. Although, it’s worth pointing out that the castle suffered extensive damage over the years, both by invading forces and by earthquakes, so much of the outside walls and towers you see today were largely reconstructed in the 1930s.

That’s not to say that the castle is not full of history, though. Inside the grounds is an archaeological zone with remains of several successive periods of occupation, from Iron Age settlements to a 15th-century palace. But perhaps the most beautiful part of the visit is not the castle itself, but rather the spectacular view of Lisbon’s red rooftops and the Tagus River from this privileged hilltop position.

Schloss Castle, Lichtenstein by Vicky, Buddy The Traveling Monkey

Located in Germany’s Black Forest, Schloss Lichtenstein is one of the best castles in Germany. It was built right on the edge of a cliff overlooking the town of Honau. Construction of the castle began in 1840 on the foundation walls of a medieval knights’ castle. Built in a Gothic Revival style, the design was inspired by Wilhelm Hauff’s romantic novel “Lichtenstein.”

Now privately owned, visitors can take a 30 minute guided tour of the castle for 9 Euro or tour the castle grounds for 3 Euro. Many parts of the castle have been meticulously and lovingly restored. On the castle grounds there is also a café and restaurant for visitors to enjoy.

There are multiple hiking trails that begin at the castle. Additionally, next to the castle there is an outdoor adventure park that offers zip lining, tree climbing, and a ropes obstacle course. So after enjoying the history and architecture of Schloss Lichtenstein you can also get your adrenaline fix.

Chillon Castle-Montreux, Switzerland by Heather, Trimm Travels

When I was planning my trip to Switzerland, I couldn’t wait to see dramatic views of the Alps, lakes, and castles. Each of those suggests a fairytale-like situation, don’t they? Imagine them all together and you have a description of Chillon Castle.

Located in Montreux, Switzerland, Chillon Castle is considered a waterside castle as it is surrounded by a natural moat. Chillon means “rocky platform” thus how the oval-shaped, limestone rocky castle got its name.

With views overlooking Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps looming dramatically in the background, the medieval castle is believed to date back to 1005 (although the first written mention of it was in 1150). It is categorized into three periods: Savoy Family, Bernese Bailiffs, and Canton of Vaud. Each of these periods is characterized by different ownerships and changes the castle has endured over the centuries.

After you cross the bridge to get to the castle, make sure to take time to see the main courtyards, the canons, and the beautiful arches. Peer out of the gorgeous Gothic windows onto the vast Lake Geneva, and before leaving, walk out to the dock for a beautiful photo opportunity.

Chillon Castle is the historic site most visited in Switzerland and a true castle that shouldn’t be missed!

Segovia Castle, Madrid by Matt, The Travel Blogs

The Segovia Castle, or Alcázar in Spanish, is a testament that a castle can be both beautiful and effective. It sits on the south side of the city, on the banks of the Eresma River, with an almost fairytale look to it thanks to the large, circular turrets. In fact, if the audio guide is to be believed, it is one of the main inspirations for the Disney castle.

There is evidence of a fort being on this location as far back as the Roman times, which when you consider its impenetrable position, is no surprise, but it really came into its own from the 12th century onwards. Segovia Alcázar is one of the very few castles in Spain that has never been taken by enemy forces.

It has served many duties throughout its history. It has been home to the Royal Court, a prison, the Royal Artillery School as well as a favorite dwelling for many Monarchs. Now it fills its role as a great tourist spot.

You can take tours of the castle where you will visit and learn about the history of this site. The tours are set up very well with an enjoyable audio guide. I love The Hall of Kings were busts of the ex-monarchs line the ceiling. There is also an artillery museum on site.

However, my personal highlight is the wonderful keep. It is a square design that if you take the challenge of climbing the 153 steps tight spiral staircase to the top, you will be rewarded with some fantastic view back across the city and the surrounding mountains.

Warwick Castle, England by Eniko, Travel Hacker Girl

Visitors of Warwick Castle feel like stepping back in time. It makes a great day trip from London, as it can be reached in only 1h 30min by train. The stone castle you see today was built in the 12th century. It is a real medieval castle, in good shape, although it has been heavily restored and renovated. There are guided tours, where you can learn more about the history of the castle. You can walk around the rooms, where they still have many of the original furniture. However, the outside of the castle is just as impressive. In the 64 acres garden, you can often spot peacocks and deers. The castle also has a bird of prey show, where they feature up to 60 magnificent birds. But that is not the only show they organise. Live stunts and storytelling events are also quite common. One of the favourite parts for children is the Horrible Histories adventure maze, where they wander through the maze and learn interesting facts about the castle. From the tower wall, you can have scenic views of the countryside. This area is a lovely place to go hiking near London. So as you can see Warwick Castle has something for everyone and it is well worth a visit.

Castello Aragonese, Italy by Helen, Helen on her Holidays

On a little island in the Bay of Naples, you’ll find one of Italy’s most magical castles. Castello Aragonese in Ischia is set on a naturally-rocky island, connected to the island of Ischia by a long bridge. At the top, surrounded by unassailable walls, is a mini-town, with a convent, cathedral, prison and palace. Most of the buildings you see today date from the Renaissance, but the rock has provided a natural fortress for over 2000 years.

If you visit Castello Aragonese you’ll follow a walking path around the castle which takes you to all the key sights. Perhaps the most astonishing is the Nun’s Cemetery. The nuns at the castle convent belonged to the Order of the Poor Clares, who believed that after death their bodies should be sat on rows of stone chairs and allowed to decompose until only the bones remained.

Not all the sights on the rock are so grim. The historic buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens and have stunning views across the island of Ischia and towards Mount Vesuvius. There are a number of serene churches and chapels, some now filled with art – part of the castle owners’ commitment to creating a unique venue for artists to exhibit their work.

Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna by Holly Four Around the World

Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria is a breathtaking structure, with construction beginning in the late 17th century by Emperor Leopold I.

The golden exterior and sprawling manicured gardens suit perfectly to the name, with Schonbrunn meaning ‘beautiful spring’.

The palace itself was a former imperial summer residence, with an impressive 1,441 rooms.

After your palace tour, you will find plenty to see and do within the palace grounds. Wander the gardens to see Neptune’s Fountain or head up the hill to visit the Gloriette for a perfect view of the palace.

There are several family attractions on the grounds as well, including a hedge maze, a labyrinth and a children’s museum.

Schonbrunn Palace is also the site of the world’s first zoo in 1752. This zoo is still operating today, having won many awards, including Europe’s Best Zoo.

You could easily fill a full day visiting this beautiful Austrian palace and surrounding gardens.

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland by Allan, It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

Named after the tiny island on which it is situated, the iconic/spellbinding scenes of Eilean Donan Castle is found near the remote borders of Skye in the western highlands of northern Scotland. The castle, which was founded back in the 13th century, was first built to create a stronghold for King Alexander II in the north and has since been home to the Macrae and Mackenzie Clans through their struggles in the 18th Century Jacobite Rebellions. During this time the castle was in fact demolished but it was restored (1919-1932) to include an arched bridge for easier access to the island. And these days Eilean Donan Castle is open to visitors and the public including a purpose-built tourist centre which is open almost year-round (closed January). Eilean Donan Castle is also the third-most-visited castle in Scotland – which is impressive given its far-flung location. As it is a rather off-the-beaten-path destination not easily reached by main local or tourist trails, so it is best suited for a road trip itinerary in Scotland. And the best option for independent travellers would be by bus from Fort William which takes around 1hour 45mins and is included on various day-trips and excursions. But a longer stay is well worth it in the region surrounding, with beautiful, wild and rugged landscapes, including the majestic lakes of Kyle of Lochalsh, and the scenic crossing of the Skye Bridge to reach the desolate lands of the Isle of Skye.

Kronborg Castle, Denmark by Derek, Everything Copenhagen

One of the most beautiful castles in the world is about 40 minutes north of Copenhagen, Denmark in the quaint coastal city of Helsingor. There you’ll find the beautiful and fascinating Kronborg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet.

Kronborg’s design is from Denmark’s Golden Age. When you visit the castle, you will immediately recognize the beauty of its simple Nordic architecture. The castle is surrounded by the beautiful coastline and sits across from a sister-fort across the strait in modern-day Sweden. When it was built, Denmark controlled southern Sweden and all trade into the Baltic Sea. The strategic location of these two castles allowed the Danish Kingdom to grow rich through toll-collection in this important seaway.

Acting troupes from London made several visits to the Danish court in Kronborg, so it’s likely that Shakespeare himself may have visited the castle. In the summer months, Kronborg hosts actors who perform sections of Hamlet for visitors to the castle. A trip to Kronborg offers a chance to experience Nordic history as well as literary history. Kronborg Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-do day trip from Copenhagen.

Well that’s the final installment in our collaboration on beautiful castles around the world.  Make sure you read parts one and two and check if your favourite castle has been included. If not please leave a comment below.

Which were your favourites? Did any take you back to your childhood bedtime fairytales?

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