If you want to experience life as a fairytale prince or princess, then these dreamy abandoned castles for sale could be just what you're looking for. Picture towering turrets, marbled columns, landscaped gardens and amazing historic details within fortified walls. From a palatial palace in Portugal to a crumbling château in France, click or scroll on to discover the best fixer-upper forts on the market right now...

If you have deep pockets, great imagination and a lot of patience, this incredible 14th-century palace might just be your dream conversion project. The historic property is located inside the national park of Los Ancares in Lugo, Spain. Sprawling, secluded and brimming with opportunity, the pad is also an absolute steal at €225,000, or £186,700 ($244k).

But any potential new owners should remember that this project is not one for the inexperienced renovator. The prominent palace stretches a staggering 46,500 square feet and is slowly being overtaken by Mother Nature. However, it does boast a restored roof and is generally in excellent condition, despite sitting vacant for some time.

Inside, the castle is pretty rundown, but there are many positives, too. From its stunning beamed ceilings and stone walls to its arched windows, authentic arrowslits, in-laid coat of arms and original ironwork, we're sure this property could be turned into something really special – perhaps a high-end hotel, or several gorgeous family homes?

The property’s location might just be its best asset. Located in the heart of the Los Ancares Nature Reserve, it’s surrounded by idyllic mountains, valleys, rivers, forests and historic towns. The property sits on a large plot and even has some prehistoric dwellings on it. There’s also a ski resort 45 minutes away for any winter sports enthusiasts.

If you're not afraid of a challenge and fancy living in rural France, then these stone castle ruins in Occitanie might be for you. Listed with My-French-House for €266,000, or £220,750 ($288k), the tumbledown treasure is a bargain – but it wouldn't be without its difficulties!

The stone ruins sit on almost 11 acres of land, surrounded by spectacular countryside, yet it’s also just 10 minutes away from idyllic Condom-en-Armagnac, meaning it offers the best of both worlds. What's more, this castle comes with dramatic architecture, including this unique tower. Fairytale home, anyone?

The ruins are the remains of a former stone castle that was built in 1850 and was destroyed during a fire. Of course, the property is in need of a complete restoration and currently offers only crumbling walls, flaking ceilings and dirt-covered floors. There are limited windows and, from the looks of it, a fair amount of rot and damp. 

The listing isn’t without its perks, though. For your money, you’ll gain a 4,413-square-foot main castle, a 2,529-square-foot barn building and an original French pigeonnier, which would at one time have housed the estate’s carrier pigeons or doves. How's that for historic?

Another fantastic fixer-upper project is this rural château in the Midi-Pyrenees region of France. Yours for a mere £391,500 ($519k), or €471,700 in the local currency, the property sits on more than 160 acres of land and lies just down the road from a Medieval village. Plus, Bergerac airport is just 55 minutes away.

The pad is slightly more manageable than most castles and spans just 1,625 square feet, making this a fantastic opportunity for someone seeking a unique renovation project. It dates back to the 17th century, though, so some hard graft would be required to bring it up to scratch.

Constructed from stone, the historic property is in need of a complete overhaul, but the interior is in a fairly decent state. From its vaulted beamed ceilings to its rustic stone walls, vintage radiators and original fireplaces, there's much to love here. Plus, there's a retro kitchen we can't help but fall for.

What’s more, the estate itself comes with an abundance of outbuildings that are all waiting to be restored. As well as the main castle, there are two hangars, a large stone barn and several other properties that you can use as you see fit. Plus, this area is known for its equestrian activities and campsites, meaning creating a hospitality business here isn’t out of the question. If you fancy taking this château on, then what are you waiting for?

Offering the best of both worlds, this ancient château can be found just 20 minutes from central Toulouse, yet it sits within almost 15 acres of peaceful, rural land. Dating back to the 18th century, the charming property sits behind large gates and boasts an elegant driveway that imparts all the magic of a real-life fairytale castle.

On the market with Immobilier Chavanne à Lavaur Sotheby's International Realty for just €550,000, or £457,000 ($596k), the historic home is a real bargain considering its size. However, with such a landmark building comes great responsibility and the restoration work is likely to be extensive. 

The majestic mansion comes complete with almost 12,000 square feet of interior space spread across four grand floors. The ground floor has been converted into four apartments, all of which require refurbishment – or perhaps the new owner will turn the building back into a single residence? All in all, the main château has good bones but is in need of some TLC in order to bring back its sparkle.

Yet there are plenty of historic elements inside that would be well worth preserving. From beamed ceilings to delicate glass windows, elaborate fireplaces, French doors, stone floors and wooden built-ins, there's much to admire about this abandoned mansion. Outside in the grounds, you’ll also find a small caretaker’s cottage and another 969-square-foot home with its own garden. How's that for bang for your buck?

Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Tarn-et-Garonne, France, this 15th-century château is waiting to be rescued. The secluded estate lies just 45 minutes from Toulouse and benefits from an elevated position and unobstructed landscape vistas. As well as boasting almost 11,000 square feet of interior space, the palatial property also has a rich and significant history.

The château is listed as a Historique Monument by the Supplementary Inventory of Historical Monuments (ISMH) and was originally built between 1401 and 1600 by a member of the court of Louis XI, one of the most infamous kings in history. Yet the plot was once home to an even older structure, completed towards the end of the 14th century. 

The ancient castle was largely rebuilt during the 16th century and throughout history, numerous kings and bishops stayed at the palace. With endless interior space, the château consists of two wings set around a courtyard, with four historic towers decorating each corner. The castle also comes with beautiful grounds, a moat that encircles the property, plus an impressive bridge and ruins of the original fortress.

Throughout the property, you’ll find plenty of dramatic period features, including stone staircases, 16th-century ceiling murals, ancient fireplaces and vaulted cloister-style spaces. There’s even a three-bedroom caretaker's house, where you could reside while renovations take place, and a chapel with 15th-century frescoes. Available through Jonathan Charles for €880,000, that's £731,200 ($954k), this enchanting estate could soon be yours.

If you're looking for a unique real estate opportunity in Spain, then look no further than this abandoned stately home. This 17th-century manor can be found in Goián, on the outskirts of the northwestern city of Pontevedra, and benefits from an idyllic setting on the banks of the river Miño.

Described by the listing agents, Sotheby's International Realty, as a 'jewel of history', the ancient estate sits on almost 25 acres of land and is made up of numerous stately buildings that all need to be restored. There's a total of 15,069 square feet of interior space, including 14 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms.

The estate’s main building, known as Casa-Pazo dos Correa, dates back to the 17th century but was reconstructed in the 18th century. The magnificent stone building is a fine example of Galician Baroque architecture and boasts a preserved a coat of arms on its façade. There’s also an annex, an old stables, a wine press, a caretaker's house, a rundown tennis court and a tiny abandoned chapel, complete with a belfry. 

Ideal as a holiday rental or events venue, the castle also boasts a block containing eight small apartments. While this property could be transformed into an Airbnb offering, the chapel could be converted into a heavenly home. Bursting with development possibilities, the property is currently for sale for a mere £991,200 ($1.3m), or €1.2 million in the local currency, making it well priced when you consider its size, location and potential.

If you're house-hunting for something stately in Belgium then this imposing property might be for you. Located in the village of Thy-le-Château in the province of Namur, the historic home dates back to the 12th century. 

Over the years, the age-old building has been sympathetically renovated numerous times, preserving the palace's refined period features. From grand European fireplaces to beamed ceilings, rustic stone walls, terracotta tile work and hardwood floors, there's much to admire about this ancient castle. 

The estate itself encompasses a sprawlling 77,392 square feet in total, while the castle is spread across four floors and includes five bedrooms, a chapel, a massive four-level keep, a catering kitchen and numerous formal living and dining rooms just waiting to be put to good use. Despite its unkempt state, it isn't hard to imagine how majestic the castle once was – and how beautiful it could be once again.

The property could easily be transformed into a boutique hotel, wedding venue or a spectacular family home – the choice really is yours. According to the listing, the lot also includes an adjoining 72-acre plot, and there’s the possibility that two smaller houses adjoining the castle might also be up for sale. If you're up to the job, Sotheby's International Realty has all the details you need.

If you're looking for a wow-factor home that will provide seclusion as well as spell-binding views, then perhaps this striking property in the village of Mirna, Slovenia, will pique your interest. Known as Mirna Castle, the building has a long history and has been registered as a monument of local importance since 1996.

For sale with Slovenia Estates, the derelict dwelling dates back to 1165 and has been fondly nicknamed 'The Sleeping Beauty'. Thought to be one of the oldest castles in the country, the abandoned building is said to be among the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture in Slovenia. A local landmark, the property boasts Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque features across its 8,288-square-foot structure.

Over the years, the property has been restored numerous times, most notably after the Second World War, during which the castle was intentionally burned down and almost completely destroyed. Luckily, a local professor financed the renovation efforts in 1965. Access to the home is via a bridge that leads into an internal courtyard – the oldest part of the palace. During the Turkish invasions, Mirna Castle became fortified and its owners built defensive walls and towers which still stand today.

The amazing castle is laid out over three floors and its square footage is split across arcade galleries, a granary, several towers and the main structure itself. Every area needs to be fully restored, so this job isn’t for the faint of heart. Yet plus points include the castle's rustic stone walls, dramatic staircases, pretty windows and vaulted ceilings decorated with exposed beams. What's more, the home's proximity to the local village and its enchanting views make it a fantastic investment opportunity.

If you're looking to live the fairytale dream in the spectacular Piedmont region of Italy, then this enchanting estate could well tick all the right boxes. For sale with Prestige Property, the ancient castle dates back to 900 AD and was reportedly completed around 1200.

Over the centuries, the historic property has been modified numerous times, but its regal façade and impressive C-shaped courtyard, which was designed in typical Piedmontese Baroque style, remain very much intact. Sitting on an elevated plot in the heart of Alessandria, the picture-perfect fortress enjoys spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.

Offering plenty of bang for your buck, the 12th-century property comes with almost nine acres of land and an impressive 25,564 square feet of inside space. Distributed over three floors, the castle features a basement, a spacious main level and a large attic with exposed beams. There are 10 bedrooms and plenty of roomy living areas with exquisite period features. From domed ceilings to hand-painted frescoes, every room is wonderfully unique.

As well as plenty of impressive interior spaces that are in need of restoration, the unique fortress was recently rendered secure by essential remedial works to its ancient structure. From supporting its exterior walls to repairing the roof, some of the hard (and expensive) work has already been taken care of. Outside, the medieval castle comes with spectacular terraced gardens and picturesque parklands worthy of the most regal estate.

Regal, majestic and unique, this heritage palace epitomises what a fairytale castle should look like. Situated on 148 acres of land on the outskirts of Lisbon, Portugal, the period property was constructed in 1800 and retains many of its striking original features. With 17 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, the palace boasts almost 22,000 square feet of inside space that's just waiting to be rescued.

Known as Quinta da Torre de Santo António, the abandoned castle has become an important local landmark and sits on a scenic plateau in the countryside, allowing for stunning panoramic views from almost every room. A fine example of classic neo-Manueline architecture, the castle comes with its own chapel, as well as numerous covered balconies, a prominent tower, stone arcades and elegant turrets.

A grand atrium opens up to a great hall with edged neo-Mudéjar tiles and walls decorated with tapestries. There are bespoke coffered ceilings with painted murals, marble and bronze fireplaces, and refined marble columns. A staircase leads to the upper floors and features bronze balustrades and baroque tile panels from the first half of the 18th century, as well as Manueline mullion windows. Elsewhere, you’ll find golden bronze lamps, stained-glass windows and gilded details.

The palace is surrounded by gardens and woods and comes with stables, coach houses and numerous servants’ quarters. The Jardim Velho (Old Garden), was created by the famous French gardener Pedro Maurier and features highly decorative hedges, lawns and beds. For sale with Portugal Property and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, this royal residence is just waiting to be snapped up.

This dramatic 16th-century castle can be found in the village of Kounice in the Nymburk district of Czechia, formerly Czech Republic. Spacious, stylish and full of potential, it's on the market with Luxent for an undisclosed sum – although the property was previously listed with Adam Schnack for €6.8 million, which equates to £5.6 million ($7.3m). 

The huge fairytale castle has been left to decay, both inside and out, but boasts more than 107,000 square feet of interior space that's waiting to be rescued. The estate is made up of several buildings, with the historic castle sitting in the centre. Built in 1554, the property has a chequered history and was once attacked by rebel farmers. From its smashed windows to its crumbling walls, it's clear the castle has been empty for many years.

The Baroque building still has a Renaissance layout, with four wings, two floors and an irregular square plan, which has a spacious courtyard garden at its heart. Despite being in a serious state of decay, the castle recently received a new roof and has good supporting structures and foundations, which would aid with the renovation. Inside, many of the rooms have been stripped, with exposed timber floors, debris and exposed ceiling beams defining most of the spaces.

Yet there are plenty of plus points, too. The property boasts an arcaded gallery with glazed lunette arches, gorgeous decorative doors and dramatic staircases that are all worthy of being rescued. There are also stone stables, a vaulted cellar and a two-storey Baroque granary, all of which are ripe for restoration. The castle is also a 30-minute drive from the centre of glorious Prague. It previously had planning permission for 52 residential homes, so this is a larger project than most.

The origins of this luxurious home in Umbria date back to the first half of the 19th century. Shortly after completion, it was sold to one of the most powerful families in the area, who transformed the building into a prestigious villa in the architectural style of a neo-Gothic castle. It's now listed for sale at €6.9 million, or £5.7 million ($7.4m).

Displaying elements of English romanticism, the pink fort is spread out over four floors, including a basement level that can be accessed from both the ground floor and the garden. The main entrance features an original front door, which has been perfectly preserved and framed with stucco paintwork.

While structurally sound, the interior needs a serious overhaul in order to make it liveable, yet the castle is still full of amazing period details that will surely delight any history lover. As well as the decorative bay windows in the tapestry room, the kitchen features a hand-painted cooker hood that bears a coat of arms, while the living room boasts truly eye-catching coffered ceilings.

There are three bedrooms and three bathrooms, but plenty of potential to extend the accommodation offering. You'll also find an octagonal terrace positioned at the top of the castle's tower, which features traditional battlements and provides 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. A beautiful park of nearly 15 acres surrounds the castle and has been split by a wide avenue lined with pine trees – perfect for an evening stroll before supper. 

Looking for all the world like an abandoned billionaire's mansion, this majestic castle in the province of Pichincha, Ecuador, sits on 70 acres of lush grounds filled with mature cypress and eucalyptus trees. In need of some updating both inside and out, it's the mother of all fixer-upper projects and is currently on the market for £6.1 million or €7.3 million($8m).

From the air, you can see how the grand house sits within the grounds, which have both wooded and landscaped areas. Around the estate, you'll find sculptures of figures from Greek and Roman mythology, monarchs from all over the world and scenes that depict the lives of Ecuadoreans.

Inside, the huge property has over 100,000 square feet of floor space decked out in a mixture of architectural styles, including Gothic Revival, Renaissance and Rococo. The castle may be empty but it doesn't go without some luxury touches: there are more stone and marble sculptures dotted around the house, as well as carved balustrades and intricate stucco work across the ceilings.

As well as the main castle, the grounds are also home to a cathedral, two Roman-style pools, multiple pavilions and 50 parking spaces. So, what's the trade off for this enormous property? The castle needs major renovation work, which has a projected cost of around $2 million (£1.5m). 

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