These are the most beautiful castles in Europe, from the stone fortresses of the Scottish highlands to the storybook lookalikes of Germany.

Knockderry Castle on the shore of a Scottish loch is on sale for $1.5m after a 1997 dispute over a bill spiraled out of control.

In 1997, a woman refused to pay a £230 ($270) debt. Now, she's had to sell her Scottish castle. Knockderry Castle is for sale for £1,250,000 ($1,476,781). The 19th-century listed property boasts four reception rooms, multiple bedrooms, and a separate cottage.

"🏔️🌳 Journey through the Scottish Highlands! Explore majestic mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles in one of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. 🏴🌄 #ScottishHighlands #ScotlandTravel #NatureLovers"

When you visit Scotland, you won't go far without seeing its medieval heritage—there are centuries-old castles from the northernmost reaches of the Orkney Islands down to Edinburgh and Glasgow, with more than a few choices across the Highlands. Better still? Many of these castles have been preserved and updated as five-star hotels, so you, too, can be royal. These are eight of the best.