Beautiful castles around the world – Part 2

There are so many amazingly beautiful castles around the world and it is very hard to make a list of them all. With the help of some fellow travel bloggers we’ve put together a list of the most breathtaking castles around the world and we continue with the second instalment.

Ljubljana Castle, Slovenia by Lyn, A Hole in my Shoe

High on Castle Hill sits the key landmark of Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. The mighty Ljubljana Castle can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.  Whether you catch a glimpse or get up close to this 15^th century castle you will discover undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in the world.

Authentically refurbished to its former glory and completely revitalised it is impressive to see the blend of old and new, but the most impressive is the breathtaking views of this charismatic city from the fortress. The oldest part of the castle, St George’s Chapel was built in Gothic style back in 1489 but Baroque architecture featured in the 1747 rebuild. Take a magical ride to the castle complex in the funicular or opt for a hike from the many paths near the Old Square or Central Market, as they will all lead you to the castle and the lookout tower, chapel, restaurants, puppet museum, even a wine shop.

The castle’s main purpose was to defend against invasion, then became a quarantine station, arsenal, army hospital and a prison. Due to deterioration in the 70s remarkable renovations began and today it’s one of the most impressive and most visited castles.

The viewing tower at the top of the castle offers an outstanding view overlooking the charismatic city across to the majestic peaks of the Alps, leaving a lasting impression. The medieval chapel has the most beautifully painted ceiling and the restaurants serve traditional Slovenian food and local wines.

The castle is full of history that has created the myths and legends that influenced the lives of the region’s population.

Hirosaki Castle, Japan by Dariece, Goats on the Road

Located in the Aomori Prefecture in Northeastern Japan, you’ll find the city of Hirosaki. In that city, you’ll find a park and a castle of the same name.

While the city is nice for exploring, the real highlight is the park and the 400-year-old Hirosaki Castle from the Edo Period — which was the seat of the samurai Tsugaru clan who ruled over the region.

Japanese castles differ from ones you might find in Europe in that (among other things) they were constructed using wood and stone, and they have a tenshu — the highest tower in the castle.

When we visited in 2019, the tenshu had been moved! The entire structure was picked up and relocated 70 meters so that the stone walls located below it could be restored.

The castle grounds here are gorgeous, complete with 5 gates, 3 yagura (small towers), and a moat. Once you’ve explored the historical sites here, don’t miss wandering around the park itself.

During the spring season, Hirosaki Park and the castle grounds is a top spot to see the cherry blossoms. There are 2,600 trees planted here, which come to life at the end of April / start of May. During the autumn season, this is a great place to see the fall leaves changing colour.

Seeing a castle is one of the top things to do in Japan, and with more than 100 in the country, just take your pick.

Château du Chaumont, Loire Valley by Chris,Explore Now or Never

The Loire Valley is, of course, world-famous for castles galore. And while many visitors flock to Chambord and Chenonceau, there are so many other lesser known but seriously stunning castles to experience here. Best of all, you’ll skip the crowds!

With its medieval look, corner towers and imposing drawbridge, Château du Chaumont was our favorite on a recent castle-hopping trip through the scenic Loire. Founded in the 10th century, it’s been a protected monument in France for nearly 2,000 years. “Chaumont” means “bald hill.” That’s because the Count of Bois, the original owner, built it high on a hill with the idea of protecting it from attackers.

Like so many European castles, you can’t even tell it’s high on a hill as you approach from the road. But then, as you meander through the beautiful interior and out the other side, you’ll be captivated by the sweeping valley view. Be sure to visit the private rooms of Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers while you’re here!

On the fall day when we visited, the château was still hosting its famous annual garden festival, which features the very best in contemporary garden designs. We toured more than 30 whimsical gardens; some included ethereal music. The gardens remain available for public viewing from mid April until early November so plan accordingly for a magical visit.

Spiez Castle, Switzerland by Carolyn, Holidays to Switzerland

Dating back to around 700 AD, Spiez Castle, on Lake Thun in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region, is well worth including in your Switzerland itinerary.

Built on the shores of the lake, and overlooking the town’s pretty harbour, Spiez Castle has been lovingly restored to give visitors an insight into life in the Middle Ages.

Throughout the castle, informative timelines and art works help you to learn more about the Castle’s former inhabitants, whilst interactive displays – including medieval costumes that you can dress up in – make this history lesson fun for all ages.

You can wander through the castle’s rooms at your leisure, with the kitchen and banquet hall two of the most impressive rooms.

The crowning glory, though, is the view from the castle’s tower where a 360° panorama stretches out before you.

Also on the castle grounds are a small Romanesque basilica, built around 1050 AD, which features frescoes with Byzantine-like imagery, and a beautiful garden with fountains and flower beds.

Spiez Castle is open daily from Good Friday to mid-October.

Castello di Lombardia, Italy by Annabel, Smudged Postcard

Deep in central Sicily is the hilltop town of Enna, Italy’s highest regional capital. Enna is crowned with a fantastic medieval castle, Castello di Lombardia.

As with any hidden gem, it’s worth the effort of taking a road trip across Sicily to discover Castello di Lombardia. The castle is best visited in spring, ideally during the Easter week when traditional processions are held in the streets of Enna. The grounds of Castello di Lombardia are carpeted with wild flowers and visitors will often have the  place to themselves. It is a wonderful place to explore and entry is free.

Scale one of the six remaining towers, Torre Pisana, for the most incredible view towards the village of Calascibetta and across the wheat plains of Sicily, a lush green in spring belying the arid nature of much of the island later in the year.

Although the current castle was built in the 13^th century, a fortification has been situated on the sites for over a thousand years, reflecting the epic history of Sicily.

Berg Eltz, Germany by Becki, Meet Me In Departures

A couple of years ago, I planned a road trip around the south of Germany to specifically see their iconic fairy-tale castles. By far, Eltz Castle was my favourite. If you asked a 5 year old to draw a fairy tale castle, it would look something like Berg Eltz.

The quintessential castle is located down a ravine, perched on a rock, next to a river and surrounded by thick ancient woodland. Honestly, it looks like Walt Disney himself just created it as part of a movie set.

The castle is 850 years old, and it’s been in the same family since it was built. For 33 generations, it’s stood with each of them adding a little bit extra to it. The architecture of the castle has a range of 500 years and if you wonder about inside it, it’s clear to see how the different styles are beautifully blended together.

Insider tip: From the carpark, there are two routes to take to get to Eltz. The scenic route goes through the trees, however, to get the pretty panoramic shot walk down the tarmac road. The view isn’t blocked by the forest and you can get some great shots looking down on the castle.

Windsor Castle, England by Kat, Wandering Bird

What little (or big!) girl doesn’t fantasise about discovering she’s connected to the Royal Family and is secretly a princess.

If this is you, you need to visit the true home of princesses (and queens)- Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle is one of those fantastic places which lives up to the hype. It’s the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

You can see it from miles away, although I would suggesting planning your England road trip so that you’re approaching from the west.

The Castle is situated high above Windsor, with magnificent views over the River Thames, Eton and Home Park (a beautiful country park where deer roam free- you can normally walk there unless there’s an official function on.)

I would definitely recommend making time to go inside the Castle. For starters- it’s the home of the Queen. Seriously, you need a souvenir. And secondly, it’s an incredible piece of architecture. The history in those walls is breath-taking, and the guided tours are well-worth taking so you can learn more about what you’re seeing.

Another highlight is the unbelievable doll’s house- built in the early 1920s for Queen Mary (wife of Henry V). It’s the largest (and most famous!) doll’s house in the world.

TOP TIP: Want to know if the Queen is there? You’ll see her Royal standard (flag with her crest) flying from the very top of the Castle. If you just see a Union Jack, then she’s not there (although other members of the family may be there on official business… or just playing crochet on the lawn.)

Chateau de Chenonceau, France by Monique, TripAnthropologist

Without doubt the most photogenic castle is the whole Loire Valley is Chateau de Chenonceau. The only Chateau that has more visitors each year in France is Versailles. Beautiful and powerful women have fought over this unique castle that began as a mill, spanning the River Cher, and that was built from 1514 to 1576. The castle is the most perfect example of a fairytale building and setting possible to imagine. Catherine de Medici’s garden, the garden maze, the gallery spanning the river, the cellars and King Francois I’s drawing room are just some of the highlights of a visit to Chenonceau.

The chateau is a wonderful combination of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and a spectacular river and woodland setting. A veritable who’s who of French history have stayed here, fought over the castle, and remodeled it. Of all the buildings in France it is hard to think of a site that may have had more influential women own and guard it, including Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici, Louise Dupin, Louise de Lorraine, and Margaret Pelouze.

Gjirokaster Castle, Albania by Emily, Wander-Lush

For a country of its size, Albania has an inordinate number of castles. More than 150 fortifications, citadels and bastions dot the landscape, from the craggy Accursed Mountains to the Adriatic coast. One of the most beautiful and fascinating is Kalaja e Argjirose in the city of Gjirokaster.

Commonly known as Gjirokaster Castle, it dates back to the 12th century but was significantly refurbished in the 1800s when the trade city’s Ottoman bazaar was built. You can get a wonderful view of the labyrinthine streets from the top of the castle, which towers 300 metres above the rest of the city.

Part of Gjirokaster’s Historic Centre, which fell under UNESCO protection in 2005, the stone castle is in incredibly good nick. A clock tower, a church, a cistern, and five exquisitely arched buildings are still standing today. A stage for Gjirokaster’s bi-annual National Folk Festival is set on the castle green, and inside one of the buildings, there are two museums, including the wonderful Gjirokaster Museum that pays homage to the city’s history, architecture, and famous residents.

Gjirokaster’s is the kind of castle that’s best described as ‘haunting beautiful’. It has a very dark history. In 1932, the castle was coopted by the notorious Zog government and used as a prison for political dissidents during Albania’s communist regime.

Tower of London, England by Tracy, UK Travel Planning

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 after the Norman invasion and the defeat of the King of England at the Battle of Hastings, the imposing Tower of London is one of London’s most visited tourist attractions. 

Located on the banks of the river Thames in the City of London expect to spend at least 3 or 4 hours exploring this historic castle.

Take a free tour of the tower with a Yeoman Guard and learn more about the history of this imposing structure. The 40 Yeoman Guards (or Beefeaters) actually live in the Tower and have lots of interesting facts to share as you explore the grounds.

During the reign of Henry VIII the Tower became synonymous with imprisonment, executions and torture. Anyone who displeased Henry (including 2 of his queens) were imprisoned and executed in the grounds of the Tower.

Over the years the Tower has had some infamous inmates including Sir Walter Raleigh, Lady Jane Grey and Rudolph Hess.

Look out for the ravens during your visit. Legend has it that if the ravens leave the Tower the crown will fall and England with it. Today there are 7 ravens living in the Tower – all have had their wings clipped to prevent them flying away.

The Crown Jewels are also housed at the Tower of London and are an impressive sight. Unfortunately photographs are not allowed but expect to be dazzled by the 142 royal objects including crowns, rings and tiaras on display.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany by Nadine, Le Long Weekend

Although far from being among the oldest castles in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is undoubtedly the most famous. The castle that inspired Disney’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ palace, it’s a place of grand stature and fantasy-like architecture. By taking a tour of the ornate rooms, you’ll learn that the castle’s former occupant, King Ludwig II of Bavaria, commissioned the castle in the late 19th century. It was almost completed by 1882 when the eccentric King moved in, but he only got to enjoy it for 4 years before he died a mysterious death – the cause of which is still debated today.

The castle makes an easy day trip from Munich and is a particularly impressive sight when approaching from the road below. Visiting Bavaria in Autumn means you’ll be rewarded with golden landscapes, and the famed Mary’s Bridge will be open (it often closes in winter) to provide the most breathtaking views of the castle. Make a day of it and you can visit the neighbouring Hohenschwangau castle where King Ludwig spent time as a child.

Chapultepec Castle, Mexico City by Rose, Where Goes Rose

A unique castle that should be on your Mexico City itinerary is Chapultepec Castle. Admittedly, Mexico is known for its colonial churches and prehispanic pyramids rather than its castles, yet Chapultepec is just as impressive as any in Europe. Coming from the word ‘chapoltepēc’ which means grasshopper in Nahuatl, this impressive castle can be found on the top of Chapultepec in Chapultepec Park, central to the city.

While this castle has a long history, most travellers are interested in one fun fact: this was the filming location for much of Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet, along with other locations in the Mexican capital. Who knew?

As the oldest castle in the Americas, Chapultepec has lived through countless events since it was built in 1775. It was abandoned during the War of Independence then pivotal during the Mexican-American War when six children lost their lives defending the castle. Visit the Niños Héroes statue to learn about this history.

Inside Chapultepec Castle is the Museum of National History home to artefacts, relics and paintings. It’s also the best place for panoramic views of the capital due to its lofty location at 2,325 metres above sea level. Entrance to the castle costs 70 pesos ($3) and it’s open to guests from Tuesday to Sunday.

Herstmonceux Castle, England by Eric, Recipes from Europe

Located in the history-filled area of East Sussex down by the English coast, Herstmonceux Castle is definitely a site for castle lovers to explore. Built back in the 15th century from red brick – a rare building material at the time – the castle was built as a grand private residence for the wealthy owner. This day, it is one of the most significant brick structures to still be standing in England!

Even though Herstmonceux never saw any major battles, the castle fell into ruins for a number of decades. Luckily, it has since been restored and welcomes visitors to this day. Interestingly enough, the many acres of the castle grounds were home to The Royal Greenwich Observatory until the 1970s. There are still large white domed tops from the telescopes on the site – and a handful of the facilities are still in use for observation today.

Herstmonceux Castle includes a number classic features that add to its medieval charm like a long bridge to the entrance over a wide, reflective moat and towering battlements. Inside, the interiors include original woodwork and a secluded inner courtyard. Behind the castle, visitors can wander the vast Elizabethan gardens that are meticulously landscaped with beautiful flowers, pathways, and sculptures.

Balmoral Castle, Scotland by Erica, Travels with Erica

Balmoral is the Queen’s Scottish summer home.  It is located in the Scottish Highlands near Ballater.  You can visit Balmoral by public transportation from Aberdeen, but it is a long and complicated journey.  It is much easier to rent a car and drive to Balmoral yourself.

The castle was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852 and has been owned by the British royal family ever since.  It has been one of the royal family’s favourite homes since it was acquired, and they spend August at Balmoral every year.

Victoria and Albert spent a year completely redoing the interior of the castle after they bought it and the next year altering the grounds and building a bridge to connect Balmoral to nearby Crathie.

They decorated the interior of Balmoral in a traditional highland style and used tartans as decor.  The presence of the royal family in the Scottish Highlands and their participation in local events like the highland games helped to revive the highland culture.  Scottish Lowlanders even started adopting aspects of highlander culture.

Balmoral is open to the public every year from April 1st through July 31st.  You’re able to tour the grounds and gardens as well as the ballroom that includes a seasonal exhibition.  The rest of the castle is closed to the public.

Balmoral is one of the most beautiful castles in all of Scotland and is the perfect place to visit if you’re interested in learning about royal history!

Matsumoto Castle, Japan by Rhonda, Travel Yes Please

Matsumoto Castle, in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan, is widely regarded as one of Japan’s top castles because of its architectural beauty and historic significance.

The main keep was constructed in the late 16^th century, making it the oldest five-tiered, six-story castle tower in Japan. It was built during a tumultuous time known as the Warring States Period so its system of defence was very important. There’s a wide moat, angled stone base, and narrow windows for shooting arrows and guns.

Later the castle was expanded and two smaller towers and a moon viewing room were added. The combination of structures from the Warring States Period and Edo Period is one of the castle’s unique characteristics.

Much of Matsumoto Castle remains in its original state, including the external stonework and wooden interior. The castle’s preservation, long history, and impressive architecture contributed to it being named a National Treasure of Japan.

What an amazing variety of contributions for the most beautiful castles around the world from fellow travel bloggers, make sure you continue reading the final part.

Have you seen any of these beautiful castles? Is there one you are waiting for to be included in the final part of the series?

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