Europe has 44 countries that are absolutely packed with iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Tower of Pisa, the Acropolis of Athens and the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque—to name a few. Yet those are simply the ones found on every travel brochure and postcard. Tucked away are a variety of historic hotels and castles that not everyone has the chance to come across. Each of these has its own story, shaped over decades and centuries and a character all its own.
If you’re the type of traveller who tends to veer off the beaten path, you might to consider visiting these grand castles or even booking a stay at one of these historic hotels.
Castillo de Belmonte (Cuenca, Spain)
Castillo de Belmonte is by no means an unknown destination, given that it has appeared in a handful of films and productions. However, compared to its much more famous brothers and sisters, such as the Alhambra and Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, it’s certainly an underrated landmark to visit. The Belmonte Castle was built in 1456, right on the peak of the Cerro de San Cristóbal in Cuenca. It is a World Heritage Site filled with medieval buildings and jutting cliffs that provide the perfect backdrop.
The castle has a lengthy history. It was originally constructed as a fortress for Don Juan Pacheco and eventually abandoned between the 17th and 18th centuries. A collaboration between the Empress Eugenia de Montijo and architect Alejandro Sureda was instrumental in transforming the castle into a cultural monument. A tour allows visitors to explore this quintessential castle, complete with dungeons, ramparts and a walled enclosure, accompanied by an audio guide narrating its medieval history.
Ashford Castle (Cong, Ireland)
Ever wanted to cosy up in a medieval castle overnight? Well, Ashford Castle presents the perfect opportunity to do so. The Victorian structure is located on the shores of the second-largest lake in Ireland, Lough Corrib, so you can expect some fantastic views of islands dotted with archaeological sites. Once considered home to the Guinness family, it’s now a luxury hotel that’s been refurbished to create a one-of-a-kind, opulent environment. Each room is beautifully decorated with Victorian-esque furnishings, complemented by a lavish spa and dedicated cinema room. Private gardens, panoramic water vistas and space for a whole host of experiences like horseback riding, archery, guided walks and more also surround the property.
But before it earned its reputation as a grand retreat, the castle started as a medieval fortress in the 12th century, then later transformed into a noble estate in the 13th century. Having passed through the hands of so many prominent families, Ashford Castle evolved with each generation and became the epitome of Irish heritage.
Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg (Cabourg, France)
Another coastal hotel on our list is the Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg, set right on the Norman coastline. Although it was built during the 1860s, hoteliers quickly worked to reconstruct it in the early 1900s thanks to the flourishing tourist population. The seaside town is known for its beach, connection to author Marcel Proust and arts and culture scene. The historic hotel, meanwhile, draws in millions of tourists every year for its majestic Belle Époque architecture, beautiful nearby promenade and old-world charm.
Just next door, guests will find the Casino de Cabourg to round out their getaway. With a history just as rich as the Grand Hôtel, visitors will be enamoured with the architecture as well as the entertainment options. On the gaming floor are old favourites like blackjack and Texas Hold’em Poker, and plenty of modern electronic games to keep every visitor entertained. Many guests who want to keep the fun going play online slots from the comfort of their suite afterwards or explore the shows and other activities the casino has to offer.
Domus Renier Boutique Hotel (Chania, Greece)
Despite being named the Best Historic Hotel in Europe in 2017, the Domus Renier is still considered an underrated gem on the continent (and even the country). The structure was formerly home to one of Venice’s most influential noble families, with details and furnishings that remind visitors of its storied past. With only nine rooms on the property, a stay here is definitely considered an exclusive and intimate experience. Each suite is furnished uniquely, and some boast sea views of the Chania harbour and the Egyptian Lighthouse.
Because of its Venetian influence, the hotel is a testament to the island’s interesting Venetian heritage. Meanwhile, its restorations have managed to create a space where history and luxury coexist. Each room has its own selling point, whether it’s a bathtub jacuzzi, loft or desk space.
Corvin Castle (Hunedoara, Romania)
While Corvin Castle might be one of the Seven Wonders of Romania, not much of the rest of the world seems to know about its striking Gothic architecture and fascinating history. It is most famous for being the place where Vlad the Impaler was allegedly held prisoner by John of Hunedoara and for inspiring Bram Stoker’s horror novel Dracula. Unlike many other castles on the continent, this one is nowhere close to being considered a ruin. Visitors will find incredible preservation of a Knights’ hall, a drawbridge, courtyards and over 50 rooms decorated with medieval art and furniture.
Many legends and spooky stories are associated with the castle, including the 100-foot well built by Turkish prisoners, the legend of the raven relating to the illegitimate child of King Sigismund and the ghosts of Corvin Castle. For those interested in history and mystery, exploring the shadowy corners of the halls and towers gives visitors a more vivid picture of this fortress’s past.
