Historic hotels with charm: spending the night in castles, palaces and old walls

More than just a bed — a journey through time

Whether creaking floorboards, thick stone walls or a window with a view of a castle courtyard: Anyone who stays in historic hotels immediately feels that a lot has already happened here. These houses tell stories — all you have to do is listen to them.

1. Colmberg Castle — Bavaria, Germany

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The over 1000 year old castle towers picturesquely over the Franconian countryside and offers rustic rooms with modern comfort. If you like, you can sleep in the tower room or have breakfast in the knights' hall.

Special features: Real castle, hunting trophies, regional cuisine
Atmosphere: Medieval, rustic, cozy
For whom? families, history buffs, romantics

2. Château de Bagnols — Rhône, France

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A true 13th century French castle — surrounded by vineyards, tapestries, old walls and an elegant spa. Historic, but never dusty.

Special features: UNESCO-protected building, wine cellar, castle garden
Atmosphere: Elegant, quiet, stately
For whom? couples, foodies, people interested in culture

3. Leopoldskron Palace — Salzburg, Austria

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Once the residence of a prince-archbishop, later the backdrop for “The Sound of Music” — today a boutique hotel with baroque flair and lake views. The suites in the castle are furnished with antique furniture, and the rooms in the Meierhof branch are interpreted in a modern way.

Special features: private property on the lake, historical library, film history
Atmosphere: Cinematic, calm, inspiring
For whom? cultural travelers, couples, music fans

4. Castello di Vicarello — Tuscany, Italy

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A Tuscan country fort with views of olive groves and vineyards. The Castello combines century-old walls with stylish design, an organic restaurant and two infinity pools.

Special features: Small luxury hotel, family run, organic garden
Atmosphere: Rustic-elegant, Mediterranean, relaxed
For whom? Connoisseurs, design lovers, peace seekers

5. Ruthin Castle — Wales, Great Britain

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A true Welsh castle with over 700 years of history. Now a hotel with a spa, themed dinners and occasional knights' games. The ruins in the castle park provide the perfect backdrop.

Special features: Castle park, vaulted spa, medieval events
Atmosphere: Mystical, historic, British
For whom? adventurous people, history nerds, families with imagination

Conclusion: A story you can touch

A stay in a historic hotel is more than just staying overnight — it is an immersion in times gone by. Old walls tell of knights, princes and long evenings spent by the fireplace. And while the wind blows through trees or castle towers outside, you sit inside by candlelight — with the feeling of being part of this story.

Tip: Many of these houses are worth a longer stay. Take time to stroll through gardens, read in old libraries, or enjoy regional cuisine.