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Immersing in European atmospheres may seem hard to come by without flying ‘across the pond’, but there are actually some gate-kept getaways in our own backyard that do Europe justice.
If you’ve had any extra time on your hands researching this topic, then you’ve likely come across Travel Off Path’s favorite St. Augustine, Florida, and Solvang, California, as the most notable destinations in the States oozing European charm, given their storybook streets and timeless aura.
However, neither of those towns is anchored by a staggering castle reminiscent of what you’d find in the Highlands of Scotland and the like.
But a textbook “hidden gem” on the outskirts of Lexington, Kentucky certainly does…
Rather than venture off with your finest top hat to witness the ‘most exciting two minutes in sports’, perhaps say neigh to Louisville in favor of Kentucky’s best-kept secret that will surely wow you.
This Is In Kentucky?!
Overhyped fried chicken and awkward family reunions aside, Kentucky is one of the South’s most delightful destinations to visit for charming escapes and warm Southern hospitality.
But let’s be real — many only know this state for the world-famous Kentucky Derby, top-notch whiskey, and maybe 1000 lb. Sisters if that’s if binge-watching trash TV is a guilty pleasure like it is mine…
One aspect far overlooked, even for the most seasoned travelers, are castles seemingly in the middle of nowhere.
While we’ve reported how Lexington, Owensboro, and Paducah are on the rise, we were surprised to see Southern Living feature Versailles, a practically unknown town exuding European grandeur.
Yes, Kentucky has a castle — and an impressive one at that.
Anchoring the centuries-old town of Versailles (pronounced ver-SALES, not like the French ver-SIGH), lies the sprawling Kentucky Castle surrounded by rolling bluegrass hills, bourbon distilleries, and horse farms in the countryside.
Actually inspired by Europe, this was the sole reason founders Rex and Caroline Martin took on the task of building such a marvel in the 60s.
Now serving as a boutique hotel, yes, you can stay in this fairytale fortress — and it’s surprisingly affordable for such a unique experience.
What It’s Like To Stay At Kentucky Castle
Equal parts Southern luxury and European daydream, Kentucky Castle is open year-round and offers a handful of lavish suites, romantic tower rooms, and countryside cottages.
Boasting a world-class spa and top-rated restaurant where you can ‘dine like royalty’, guests can unwind in pure comfort between farm-to-table feasts, bourbon tastings, and rural sunsets.
Right now, castle grounds are decked to the gills with festive flair. Come spring and summer, guests love taking advantage of the glistening pool with cocktail waiters and panoramic views of scenic pastures.
This winter, rates are in the $200s for a reasonable splurge given its one-of-a-kind charm. Though if you’d rather just sightsee than rest your head here, the castle does offer a variety of guided tours.
With nearly 2,500 glowing reviews on Google, one recent guest raved, “Visiting the Kentucky Castle was an unforgettable experience! The history of this castle is a captivating tale of romance turned heartbreak, but what has emerged from it is truly extraordinary”.
Is The Town Of Versailles Just As Dreamy?
Kentuckians may pronounce Versailles funny, but they’ve managed to build a townscape brimming with European character too.
Versailles is no one-trick pony with just a castle in open Bluegrass fields. A quick glance at the downtown strip will have you mesmerized with storied architecture, boutique storefronts — all that’s missing is cobbled streets.
Capped by church bell steeples and miniature spires as you’d find in far-off Estonia, the historic courthouse towers above the square, anchoring one of Kentucky’s most picturesque small towns.
While it’s hard to pass up staying at Kentucky Castle, the town center does offer other nostalgic stays like A Storybook Inn: Bed and Breakfast — the name speaks for itself…
And we all know a trip to Europe without snagging a barstool in a classic pub is simply incomplete. The same can be said for this region of Kentucky — you’re in bourbon country after all.
The Amsden Bourbon Bar is just the place, taking up space in a former 1800s tavern, and holds up masterfully.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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