Move over Louisville! This unknown city in Kentucky with a dazzling castle feels like Europe

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Being immersed in the European atmosphere may seem difficult to achieve without flying ‘across the pond’, but there are actually some supervised getaways in our own backyard that do Europe justice.

If you’ve had some extra time to research this topic, you’ve probably come across Travel Off Path’s favorite destinations of St. Augustine, Florida, and Solvang, California, as the most notable destinations in the United States that exude European charm, given their storybook streets and timeless appeal.

However, none of these towns are anchored by a staggering castle reminiscent of what you’d find in the Scottish Highlands and the like.

But a textbook “hidden gem” on the outskirts of Lexington, Kentucky certainly does…

Rather than heading out in your nicest top hat to witness the ‘most exciting two minutes in sport’, so to speak neigh to Louisville in favor of Kentucky’s best-kept secret that is sure to blow your mind.

This It’s in Kentucky?!

Overhyped fried chicken and awkward family reunions aside, Kentucky is one of the South’s most beautiful destinations for charming escapes and warm Southern hospitality.

But let’s be honest: many only know this state for the world-famous Kentucky Derby, premium whiskey and maybe 1000 pounds sisters if that’s if binge-watching trash TV is a guilty pleasure, as mine is…

One aspect that is often overlooked by even the most seasoned travelers are castles that are seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

While we’ve reported on how Lexington, Owensboro and Paducah are on the rise, we were surprised to see that Southern Living features Versaillesa virtually unknown city that exudes European grandeur.

Yes, Kentucky has a castle – and impressive too.

Anchoring the ancient city of Versailles (pronounced re-SALEnot like the French ver-SIGH), lies the vast Kentucky Castle surrounded by rolling bluegrass hills, bourbon distilleries and rural horse farms.

Actually inspired by Europe, this was the sole reason why founders Rex and Caroline Martin took on the task of building such a wonder in the 1960s.

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 daydreams, Kentucky Castle is open all year round and offers a handful of opulent suites, romantic tower rooms and country cottages.

With a world-class spa and a top-notch restaurant where you can ‘dine royally’, guests can relax in pure comfort among farm-to-table feasts, bourbon tastings and bucolic sunsets.

At this time, the castle grounds are decorated to perfection with festive flair. In spring and summer, guests enjoy taking advantage of the sparkling pool with cocktail waiters and panoramic views of the picturesque meadows.

This winter, prices are around $200 for a reasonable splurge, considering its unique charm. But if you’d rather just sightsee than rest your head here, the castle does offer a variety of attractions tours.

With nearly 2,500 rave reviews on Google, a recent guest said, “A visit to Kentucky Castle was an unforgettable experience! The history of this castle is a captivating story of romance turned heartbreak, but what emerged from it is truly extraordinary.”

Is the city of Versailles just as dreamy?

Kentuckians may call Versailles funny, but they’ve also managed to build a cityscape full of European character.

Versailles isn’t a one-trick pony with just a castle in open bluegrass fields. A quick look at downtown will enchant you with its legendary architecture and boutiques; the only thing missing are cobbled streets.

The historic courthouse, surrounded by church bells and miniature towers like those you’d find in faraway Estonia, towers over the square and anchors one of Kentucky’s most picturesque small towns.

While it’s hard to pass up a stay at Kentucky Castle, the city center also offers other nostalgic stays A storybook inn: bed and breakfast – the name speaks for itself…

And we all know that a trip to Europe is simply not complete without encountering a bar stool in a classic pub. The same can be said for this region of Kentucky: you are in Bourbon country, after all.

The Amsden Bourbon Bar is just the right spot, taking up space in a former 19th century tavern and holding up masterfully.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.