HOTELS FIT FOR A KING

Fancy living like royalty? Take up residence in one of these grand, storied hotels

WORDS BY EMILY HUMPHREY

ASHFORD CASTLE

COUNTY MAYO, IRELAND

Once home to the storied Guinness family, this castle’s history can be traced back to the 13th century. Set on 350 idyllic acres on the shores of Lough Corrib, there’s rich history in spades but the luxury digs are anything but old-fashioned. No wonder the likes of King George V, Oscar Wilde and John Lennon have all spent time here. Following a huge renovation in 2015, indulge all your medieval fortress dreams in style – visit the equestrian centre, try a spot of archery or take a Hawk Walk, where you can fly a Harris Hawk with a falconry instructor.

ÇIRAGAN PALACE KEMPINSKI

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Arriving by car is just so commonplace, no? Summon your private yacht or helicopter to arrive in style at this ornate 17th-century Ottoman palace, set on the banks of the Bosphorus. The 4,300-square-foot Sultan Suite is as lavish as you’d hope, with its very own hammam. Take a dip in the enormous infinity pool, treat yourself to a royal banquet with the Sultan’s Dinner experience or enjoy a luxury picnic in the pristine gardens – no tartan rugs and Tupperware here, it’s a fully-themed seated affair.

VILLA D’ESTE

LAKE COMO, ITALY

Instantly recognisable, if only for its iconic floating pool, this grand estate became a hotel in 1873. It may have been built in the 16th century by a cardinal, but it also served as a private summer retreat for royalty and now; the grande dame of this glittering resort town is a playground for the rich and famous, boasting old-world hospitality. La dolce vita indeed: cocktail hour on the terrace overlooking the lake, or take a stroll through the immaculate, 25-acre private park.

TAJ LAKE PALACE UDAIPUR, INDIA

Once called Jag Niwas, the 18th-century summer home of Maharana Jagat Singh II floats in the middle of Lake Pichola (no bad views here), only accessible to hotel guests. You’ll arrive by boat and be showered with red petals before you enter the lobby, which sets the tone for a regal stay. This white-walled delight became Rajasthan’s first luxury hotel in the 1960s and has even made it to the silver screen – it featured in the 1983 Bond film Octopussy.

AMAN AT SUMMER PALACE

BEIJING, CHINA

Just steps from the East Gate of the UNESCOlisted Summer Palace imperial estate, the historic dwellings at this hotel were once used by guests of the Empress Dowager Cixi in the 19th and 20th centuries. There’s even a ‘secret’ locked door from the hotel to access the Summer Palace’s dazzling grounds and lakes. Find your peace in tranquil gardens and courtyards or unwind at the cigar bar, your choice.