Hotel Grand Barrail, Bordeaux, France
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On the doorstep of Bordeaux wine heartland St Emilion, this 19th century chateau has vineyards within spitting distance. It was revamped in 2009 and, while all bedrooms are true to the period style, not all are in the castle. There are two restaurants, one a Baroque room glowing with stained glass, red marble pillars and Oriental paintings. Doubles from €215.
Castello di Velona, Siena, Italy
Castello di Velona-siena.com
On one of Tuscany’s many splendid hills, this 11th century castle hold its own against the backdrop provided by Mount Amiata. Even the outdoor pool has panoramic views. From the Renaissance jewelled interior, with silk curtains, marble bathrooms and painted ceilings, views are framed by colonnaded arches. Doubles from €170.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Scotland
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The gamut of West Highlands geography sweeps before this hotel, from loch to glens and mountains. Celebs who’ve basked in the 17th century pile’s antiques and crystal, and priceless landscape, run from Charlie Chaplin to Robert Redford and Elton John, while royals who’ve visited include queens Victoria and Elizabeth. Doubles from £320 (€370).
