France and Italy’s Palaces and Castles Live like 18th-century nobility and royalty in these stunning dwellings
If you’re looking for a luxury getaway to make you feel like royalty, look no further than the magnificent castles and palaces situated throughout Italy and France. These two popular European destinations are home to some of the grandest and most palatial abodes on the planet, which can be rented or hired for staycations and events.
At Blend, we’ve identified one of our favourites from each country that we feel are perfect retreats for our clientele, providing a luxurious and high-end break, enabling guests to truly get away from the stresses of everyday life.
In Italy, we’re particularly drawn to the Castello di Ama, located in the Chianti region just north of the beautiful Tuscan city of Siena. Predominantly a vineyard, the Castello di Ama (the ‘Castle from Ama’) provides a classic location for a contemporary stay.
The 18th century Castello’s accommodation, the Villa Ricucci, houses five elaborate suites that immerse its guests in the beauty of the region. Views of the stunning Chianti scenery and its vineyards, coupled with ultimate comfort and Italian style, make for an exceptionally special stay. Of course, whilst here you can indulge yourself in the wine and cuisine that the area is famous for.
In France, the Hotel Chateau du Grand-Luce sits a couple of hours away from Paris, in the Loire Valley. Also dating back to the 18th-century, this neoclassical French national treasure was built for nobility and hosted royalty and other profound guests throughout the Age of Enlightenment. As a result, its luxurious extravagance and sophistication now provide elite guests with a modern splendour that allows the chateau’s early life to be relived.
The grounds are set on a private enclave of 80-acres and are encircled by the original medieval walls. Also on-site there are French gardens, orchards, a lake, meadows and a white oak forest, decorated by statues given as gifts by King Louis XV. A stunning ballroom and an enchanting spa and fitness centre are also to be enjoyed by guests and 17 rooms and suites capture the poetic history of the chateau perfectly.
Of course, the abundant number of regions in Italy and France ensure that visitors are completely spoiled for choice. We’ve simply identified two of our favourite destinations but would be delighted to talk you through some of the other magical options on offer.
If you’d like to learn more about some of the extravagant palaces and castles available to stay in, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We’d also be delighted to sort out any travel requirements you have and can put together a bespoke itinerary, including once-in-a-lifetime experiences.