CASTLES FOR THE KNIGHTS OF LUXURY...

Château Bagnols, France 

With its moat, formal gardens and 12 meter thick, honey-colored walls, the 13^th century Château Bagnols rapidly transports visitors to a bygone age of romance and chivalry – without doubt one of the reasons why it has such a high profile list of guests, including Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. The other-worldly sensation is enhanced by four-poster beds, vast intricately carved open fireplaces and beautiful trompe l’oeils. A Michelin starred restaurant serves mouth-watering food and a complimentary decanter of wine is delivered to your room each day. Situated in the heart of the Beaujolais country, there are vines as far as the eye can see – true paradise for oenophiles.www.chateaudebagnols.co.uk  

 

Ashford Castle, Ireland 

Close your eyes and picture your ideal fairytale castle - aside from Castle Neuschwanstein of course. The chances are it will bear an uncanny resemblance to 13^th century Ashford Castle, which positively bristles with crenulations, turrets and arrow-slit windows. The interior is a panoply of oak panelled walls, simmering portraits and crystal chandeliers; the bedrooms are more cosy, with lashings of chintz chandeliers and comfortable armchairs to sink into. The estate covers 350 acres of wooded parkland and the activities on offer are numerous, including falconry, horse-riding, golf archery and salmon fishing. Its picturesque setting, overlooking Loch Corrib, as well as its friendly staff has made it a favorite with Hollywood celebrities looking for discretion and originality.www.ashford.ie

 

Dromoland Castle, Ireland 

Dromoland Castle’s history stretches back more than 1,500 years; suits of armor guard its corridors, while huge life-size portraits cling to the walls. The atmosphere is one of stately grandeur – ideal for guests, such as George W Bush, in search of splendid isolation. Having said that, the castle is only a short drive away from Shannon airport so it is easily reached. Last year saw the launch of its luxury spa, which features 100% organic products from Voya; it provides the perfect recuperative haven after a couple of rounds on the castle’s 18-hole golf course. There is also an on-site golf academy where you can perfect your swing under the expert guidance of a resident PGA professional golfer. www.dromoland.ie

Relais la Suvera, Italy

Relais la Suvera has been in the family of its current owners, the Marquis Ricci Paracciani, on and off since 1123. Once a papal villa, the palazzo has now been turned into a five star hotel. However, history is never far away and this Tuscan gem even has its own museum that houses antiquities going back hundreds and hundreds of years. The high-ceilinged interiors are decorated in sumptuous Renaissance style, with golden four-poster beds and lavishly upholstered chaise longues. Meals can be eaten outside, with gourmet specialities including pheasant paté flavored with vin santo and pistachios, along with homemade agnolotti pasta stuffed with sirloin of senese pork. For those of an active persuasion, added entertainment comes in the form of mountain biking, horse-riding and exploring local antique markets.www.lasuvera.it