Once upon a time, one would need a title or tiara to stay overnight in a chateau. These days though, beautifully restored castles make for fantastic countryside escapes for us all. From romantic chateau hotels in France to fairy-tale worthy castles in Germany to sprawling Italian castle hideaways nestled among vineyards.
Related: The Best French Castles for a Romantic, Countryside Escape
It's no surprise that these medieval and luxury castles are sending travelers' hearts racing, the properties have well-tended courtyards, lovely gardens, and soaring pergolas. What's more, many of these castles can be rented out in their entirety through home-sharing websites like Airbnb.
Related: Stunning Castles in Scotland You Can Actually Rent
With so many castles available to rent, finding the right chateau for your trip can be a daunting task. Which is why we reached out to Airbnb for their insight on the French castles that travelers are saving to their wish-list the most. And their top three most wished for castles in France delivered.
From a stunning Cinderella-esque castle in Bordeaux complete with a stunning resort-like swimming pool to a grand Loire Valley chateau complete with manicured gardens and over 100 flower species. Read on for travelers' dream French castle listings on Airbnb.
Chateau Bordeaux & Vignoble: Aquitaine
The only thing that makes a castle better is if it's also sat in a 16-hectare Bordeaux vineyard like this one. This eight-bedroom stay also comes with a resort-style swimming pool, barbecue grill, and plenty of entertaining space. Want to venture beyond the estate grounds? The castle is a hop away from Golf de Bordeaux-Cameyrac, and wine lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to more close-by vineyards in Bordeaux. Available from $934 per night.
Château de Barnay: South Burgundy
Turrets, towers, spiral staircases, and large fireplaces...Château de Barnay in South Burgundy looks straight out of a fairytale. Gather seven of your nearest and dearest to stay in this cozy stone castle which has a garden salon in the courtyard with swings, table tennis, and badminton to while away the day. Available from $225 per night.
Castel in the Loire Valley
Superhost Pierre's lovely Loire Valley chateau is the ultimate countryside escape, and it's just a two-hour drive from Paris. During warmer months guests can make the most of the outdoor pool, grills, and gorgeous gardens peppered with over 100 flower species and a wisteria trail. Winters were made for switching on the cozy fireplaces and making the most of the grand dining rooms indoors. Available from $539 per night.
