For a taste of royalty in North Carolina, it’s as simple as walking outside your front door and taking a little road trip. While some of these North Carolina castles are well-known, and often used as wedding venues, a few on this list have a little more mystery and intrigue. All, however, are worth a visit, so get ready to be enchanted by these six North Carolina castles!
For those seeking their own royal wedding right here in North Carolina, Castle McCulloch is a dream-come-true! In addition to being an absolutely incredible wedding venue, the caslte also hosts some totally swanky soirees. While the gorgeous castle primarily caters to weddings, it is open to the public for many different events, making it a must-add to your North Carolina bucket list! If you thought you’d only get to experience a castle in the hillsides of Europe… think again!
This breathtaking castle is nestled high up in the mountains. Once a private estate, this castle is a popular wedding venue. Upon your arrival, you’ll definitely agree that this Scottish border castle definitely belongs on the list of the best castles in North Carolina.
The best part about Castle of Joy is that you can literally have this entire castle all to yourself. This castle was built by a husband and wife duo who visited Scotland, and wanted to bring the magic fo Scotland back to North Carolina. As a popular romantic getaway, this secret little castle is nestled high up in the mountains with breathtaking views all around.
We doubt you’d want to stay a night in the haunted Seely’s Castle, located just outside of Asheville. This landmark is rumored to be haunted, and the home of some truly macabre happenings. Located at 710 Mountain Road, the drive to the castle is lined with abandoned mansions that once belonged to the rich and powerful. Now, it can only be viewed through the woods. The castle is guarded by gates and cameras and is said to be under ‘religious order’ and no visitors are allowed.
Another castle with some baggage, Castle Mont Rouge can be found hiding along a gently rolling road outside of Durham. Castle Mont Rouge, an unfinished eclectic castle structure decaying alongside the road, has tugged at the interest of passersby for ages. In truth, the eccentric structure was reportedly a love-inspired project undertaken by a husband for his wife. But sadly, she died before it was completed.
Regarded as “America’s Castle,” no list of castles would be complete without Biltmore Estate. Once privately owned, the Biltmore is the largest privately-owned home in America and one of the most popular tourism destinations on the east coast.
Have you ever visited any of these North Carolina castles? Which one do you find most magical? Share your favorite enchanting places to visit in North Carolina in the comments below!
And for more dreamy destinations around The Tar Heel State, definitely check out our Fairytale Road Trip!
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North Carolina Castles
What’s the most famous castle in North Carolina?
Regal in stature and reputation, the Biltmore Estate truly is the most famous castle in North Carolina. Each year, over a million people visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina; it’s truly the state’s crown jewel. It is one of the most popular attractions in North Carolina and its winery is now the most visited winery in the United States. Most North Carolinians have visited Biltmore at least once and have been inspired by the stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. Be sure to tour the gardens at spring for a total Alice in Wonderland experience. If you haven’t been to the beautiful Biltmore yet, definitely plan to visit this North Carolina treasure — and even if you have, it’s definitely a place worth revisiting!
Where are some enchanting places to visit in North Carolina?
There are some whimsical places in North Carolina that can seem like they’re plucked straight from a fairy tale. North Carolina has plenty of resplendent waterfalls, but Crabtree Falls is absolutely enchanting and one you’ll be wanting to return to time and time again. Among wild horses, lighthouses, and gorgeous blue water, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a world of whimsy at Cape Lookout National Seashore.
What are some of the most beautiful places in North Carolina?
North Carolina is just brimming with natural beauty. Chimney Rock is classic North Carolina, offering one of the most memorable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the state. Rodanthe is another beautiful places in North Carolina; it’s one of the last untouched locations on the Outer Banks and still brims with original charm. Although the Serendipity House has been moved from its former location, you’ll still get a glimpse of nautical houses literally surrounded by waves. And North Carolina’s scenic beauty extends below ground, too. Beneath the eastern slope of Humpback Mountain, Linville Caverns is an active limestone cavern nestled deep underground is home to blind trout and some of the most fascinating limestone formations you’ll ever se
This Road Trip To North Carolina’s Most Majestic Castles Is Like Something From A Fairytale
By OnlyInYourState Staff
| Updated on September 29, 2020 (Originally published September 24, 2020)
The notion of castles often conjures up images of Europe or scenes from our favorite fairytales. Yet few people realize there are plenty of these regal landmarks located throughout the Tar Heel State. In fact, we’ve put together a custom road trip that will take you to some of the very best castles in North Carolina. From the first seat of government to “America’s Castle” to an abandoned castle hiding in the woods, this trip will make you feel like you’re part of a whimsical storybook. So let’s get started!
Click here for the interactive map.
Our road trip to the best castles in North Carolina begins with an important piece of history. Tryon Palace is a beautiful landmark of history and the early establishment of North Carolina away from British rule. While most of the castle burned down, it was meticulously reconstructed to bring back the same charm it had in its heyday. Tours provide unique insight and special events throughout the year make you feel oh so Colonial. If you’re curious, you can read more about Tryon Palace.
Located in Angier, you’ll find Barclay Villa halfway between Raleigh and Fayetteville. The popular wedding venue once operated as “Barclay’s Inn.”
Hiding on the UNC campus you’ll find Gimghoul Castle, surrounded by myths, legends, and secret societies. “The Order of Gimghoul” is a secret society that was said to meet at the castle. There’s also a mysterious ghost and legend centered around one of the rocks involving Peter Dromgoole near the castle. Read about it here.
Hiding amongst the hills outside of Hillsborough, Castle Mont Rouge is surrounded in mystery. Folklore surround sculptor Robert Mihaly and his failed dream-to-life vision. While the outside is completed, the inside never saw the work and beauty it deserved. Read all about Castle Mont Rouge (and how to get there) here.
Perhaps one of the most sought-after wedding venues for the unique bride, Castle McCulloch gives off both royal and Medieval vibes. While it mainly stays closed to the public, special events like a Mardi Gras celebration let everyone enjoy the unique interior and exterior of this beautiful destination. Read more about it here.
There’s no surprise Biltmore has been given the title of “America’s Castle.” Home to 250 rooms, lavish gardens, 65 fireplaces, and four acres of floor space. While the Biltmore is easily one of the most visited places not only in North Carolina, but the southeastern U.S, many visiting don’t know these ten surprising facts.
Tucked away deep in the mountains in Tuckaseege, Castle Ladyhawke is a popular wedding destination and venue for other special events. Upon your arrival, you’ll definitely agree that this Scottish border castle definitely belongs on the list of the best castles in North Carolina. For more information, you can visit the official website.
After all that driving, you’re rightly exhausted. The best part about our last destination is that it’s actually available for the night, weekend, or week. That’s right, you can book your getaway at your own private castle! Located on 10 acres deep within the Smoky Mountains in Murphy, this landmark offers amenities like a hot tub, plenty of walking trails, and unique rooms. Want to book your weekend away? Visit the castle’s website.
What are your thoughts on this road trip to the best castles in North Carolina? How many of these have you visited? Be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments below!
For more information on castles listed, read our article about all the castles of NC here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
