We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you ... you're just helping re-supply our family's travel fund.
For centuries, castles have symbolized power, romance, and architectural grandeur. With their towering turrets, sweeping staircases, and walls that have withstood hundreds of winters, they seem destined for storybooks rather than everyday life. Yet across Europe and even parts of South America, several historic castles are privately owned, partially residential, or available for extended stays. These remarkable properties blend medieval craftsmanship with modern plumbing, heating, and security systems, making fairy-tale living more attainable than most imagine.
1. Château de Gudanes : France
Constructed in 1741 in the Ariège region of southern France, Château de Gudanes spans roughly 43,000 square feet across 94 acres of forested land. Sitting at nearly 1,800 feet above sea level, it overlooks the Pyrenees with dramatic valley views. After being abandoned for almost 30 years, restoration efforts began in 2013, preserving its grand stone staircase and salons with 18-foot ceilings. The château includes more than 20 principal rooms, and while privately owned, it occasionally accommodates long-term creative residencies within its carefully stabilized historic structure.
2. Ashford Castle : Ireland
Dating back to 1228, Ashford Castle occupies 350 acres along Lough Corrib in County Mayo. Expanded three times, including a major 19th-century redesign, it now features 83 individually styled rooms and suites. Thick medieval walls frame oak-paneled corridors and restored fireplaces. Beyond functioning as a luxury estate, private-use arrangements allow extended residential stays. Residents enjoy access to a 9-hole golf course, a falconry school established in 1986, and over 26 miles of woodland trails winding through lakeside scenery.
3. Castle La Punta : Peru
Completed in the early 1900s near Lima, Castle La Punta rises roughly 30 feet above the Pacific shoreline. Its European-inspired turrets crown nearly 8,000 square feet of interior space, including balconies designed for unobstructed sunset views. Reinforced foundations protect the structure from ocean winds, while thick masonry provides natural insulation. The property occasionally appears on private real estate listings, offering a rare combination of fortress-style architecture and beachfront living just 20 minutes from central Lima.
4. Schloss Roxburghe : Scotland
Located in the Scottish Borders near Kelso, Schloss Roxburghe dates to the early 19th century and anchors an estate of nearly 300 acres. Baronial architectural elements include carved stone towers and ceilings exceeding 16 feet in select rooms. Portions of the estate feature private residences suited for long-term occupancy, blending traditional craftsmanship with updated utilities. Residents enjoy access to a championship golf course, salmon fishing along the River Teviot, and landscaped grounds that stretch across miles of rolling countryside.
5. Castello di Gabbiano : Italy
Tracing its origins to the 12th century, Castello di Gabbiano sits in Tuscany’s Chianti region and spans more than 250 acres of vineyards and olive groves. Restored apartments within the castle walls provide long-stay rental opportunities amid historic surroundings. Stone corridors and vaulted ceilings remain intact, complemented by modern kitchens and heating systems. The estate produces thousands of bottles of wine annually, allowing residents to live steps away from centuries-old cellars and terraces overlooking hills rising nearly 1,000 feet above sea level.
6. Burg Rheinstein : Germany
Perched 295 feet above the Rhine River, Burg Rheinstein was originally built in the 14th century and reconstructed in 1823 during the Romantic era. Fortified towers and arched windows overlook vineyard-covered slopes along one of Germany’s most scenic waterways. Privately owned, the castle hosts limited residential stays and exclusive-use arrangements. Restored chambers feature antique furnishings and vaulted halls, while modern reinforcements ensure structural stability within this nearly 700-year-old landmark.
7. Château de Challain : France
Completed in 1854 in the Loire Valley, Château de Challain spans approximately 24,000 square feet and showcases Neo-Gothic architecture. Intricate stone carvings, pointed spires, and stained-glass windows rising over 15 feet define its dramatic exterior. The castle includes nine lavish bedroom suites and expansive reception halls. Although it operates as an event estate, extended private residencies are possible. Behind its ornate façade lie updated electrical systems and climate controls that make long-term living both elegant and comfortable.
8. Egeskov Castle : Denmark
Built in 1554, Egeskov Castle rests on oak piles driven into a lakebed, making it one of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles. Surrounded by a moat and 49 acres of gardens, the estate remains partially inhabited by descendants of its founding family. While sections welcome visitors, private residential quarters exist within the grounds. Thick defensive walls and timber-framed halls are balanced by discreet modernization, allowing residents to experience 16th-century architecture with contemporary convenience.
9. Castle Oliver : Ireland
Castle Oliver in County Limerick was completed in 1845 in Gothic Revival style and encompasses nearly 20,000 square feet. After decades of neglect, a major restoration began in 2001, carefully integrating modern plumbing and structural reinforcements. The castle contains 10 bedrooms, stained-glass windows, and a grand staircase beneath a vaulted ceiling. Set on approximately 270 acres, it offers exceptional privacy, making it suitable for ownership or long-term luxury rental within a meticulously revived historic landmark.
10. Château de Bagnols : France
Dating to the 13th century, Château de Bagnols stands in France’s Beaujolais region amid vineyard-covered hills. Spanning roughly 8 hectares, it retains medieval walls, corner towers, and a restored drawbridge. Renaissance frescoes and massive stone fireplaces remain intact inside. While primarily functioning as a boutique residence and event venue, exclusive extended bookings are available. Thick limestone walls help regulate temperature year-round, blending fortress authenticity with thoughtful modern upgrades.
11. Castell Coch Estates : Wales
Although Castell Coch itself was completed in 1891 as a Gothic Revival masterpiece, nearby private estates echo its fairy-tale design. Located about 5 miles from Cardiff, several castle-style properties span between 10 and 50 acres of wooded hillside. Many exceed 6,000 square feet and feature conical towers, arched windows, and stone façades inspired by medieval prototypes. Modern construction includes underfloor heating and secure gated access, offering romantic architecture with convenient proximity to urban infrastructure.