Guests Reveal Their Preferred Old-World Places to Stay in European Countries
Explore a variety of unique heritage accommodations in Europe, from centuries-old mansions to medieval strongholds and eccentric getaways.
A Grand Venice Palazzo
One couple succeeded in reserve a beautiful five-century-old mansion in Venice for just €100 per stay. Located in the peaceful lanes of a Venetian district, the exterior looks simple, but upon entering, splendor unfolds.
Visitors can walk through a green ornamental garden, view a grand foyer decorated with murals and Renaissance art, lit by shimmering glass chandeliers. The reception area includes an vintage plush chair, ideal for enjoying a prosecco or regional drink.
Going back to the Renaissance era, the former proprietors gave Venice with two doges. Nowadays, the stone corridors and high-ceilinged rooms retain a elegant, regal air, like spirits of the artist or Tintoretto could show up and start creating art. Breakfast of coffee and croissants in the garden, served by welcoming hosts, offers a charming beginning to the day.
An Italian School in a Ancient Fortress
East of Turin in the center of the Piemont district, a beautiful fortress with a past to the 11th century provides a live-in cookery school. Although a large part of the present edifice was built approximately the 18th century on original footings, it has been carefully restored by a passionate family.
Guests can take part in excellent cooking classes, as well as fascinating excursions and adventures. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for anyone fond of regional dishes and heritage.
An Exquisitely Refurbished Manor House in Romania
Located above a charming rural settlement, an 1700s estate provides elegant accommodation beside one of the location’s most beautiful Saxon fortified churches. Nestled at the terminus of a green tree-lined gorge, the majestic but inviting rooms showcase period art from the area and furnishings, evoking the sensation of walking into a 19th-century tale.
Guests can savor dining by candlelight on the porch, prepared by a village chef, and pass time in the magnificent book-filled space. The manor hosts up to nine, and modest prices create an affordable and enchanting getaway.
A Medieval Stronghold Overlooking the Danube
For those looking to explore old-world times, a 1200s structure perched on a rock face overlooking the Danube in Germany delivers an memorable experience. Reachable via a challenging zigzag bicycle trail up a sheer outcrop, the castle boasts whitewashed surfaces that hide a big courtyard with comfortable sleeping quarters and a excellent tavern in a crypt.
The panoramic location provides magnificent views across the adjacent protected area and spectacular dusk. Reportedly visited by spirits, discovering the passages and alleyways in search of phantoms is highly enjoyable for visitors. A generous morning meal with plenty of delicious baked goods provides sustenance for further adventures.
A Quirky Eccentric Stay in Stirling
Challenging to convey, this 1700s homage to a fruit is perched on a rural property near the city of Stirling. Part of the building houses rooms and a bathroom, separated from the simple cooking area and comfortable living room by the unique tower. Certainly eccentric, staying here provides a different experience for guests looking for something distinctive.
Dog-friendly and sleeping four people, the property features old reading and logbooks going back the seventies, supplying diversion in the lack of television and internet.
World War I History in Belgium
In a Belgian city that was unoccupied during the WWI, a historic building once acted as a social space for troops. Today, the property has been meticulously kept by expert caretakers, and the chapel in the attic is a particularly meaningful spot of reflection.
The accommodations and breakfast are charming and very much in the spirit of the former venue.
Patio Apartments in Seville
While the Andalusian capital is famous for its old hotels, many can be pricey. A particular selection features remarkably budget-friendly rates and a central location. It is a 1500s courtyard complex with Moorish origins from the old times.
Visitors can lodge in apartments arranged around a common courtyard, formerly used for local functions like cooking and washing. This is a especially atmospheric destination for enthusiasts of {Spanish golden age theatre|