CONWY Castle has been named as one of the most "beautiful" castles in Europe. 

Condé Nast Traveller has released a new ranking of the 26 most eye-catching castles on the continent.

The 21-tower medieval fortress in Conwy, which has stood high over the town for 700 years, has made the list alongside incredible staggering structures such as Bran Castle, Romania; Château de Chambord, France; Castel del Monte, Italy; Château de Chenonceau, France; Hohenzollern Castle, Germany and Bojnice Castle, Slovakia.

Condé Nast Traveller writes about Conwy Castle: "The Welsh town of Conwy is defined by its 21-tower medieval fortress, which features a gorgeous castle surrounded by fortified walls stretching three-quarters of a mile. The structure was commissioned by King Edward I back in the 13th century, which makes its well-preserved state all the more impressive.

"Visitors are welcome to visit the castle and walk a complete circle around the battlements, including venturing up the towers via spiral staircases."

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany, is the first structure on the list. 

It is described as one of the "most recognisable castles on the planet" - thanks in large part to the fact that it served as inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Condé Nast Traveller writes: "Originally built at the behest of reclusive King Ludwig II as a private retreat in 1886, the majestic structure boasts a clifftop location and ornate rooms; today, it attracts some 1.4 million visitors every year."

According to Cadw, Conwy Castle is exceptionally well preserved.

The Welsh Government's historic environment service says it contains the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales.