Living their own fairy tales

A $27.9 million castle in Valpolicella auctioned with a starting price of 100 million yuan ($16 million) on Taobao.com, one of China's largest e-commerce platforms. .[Photo/Taobao.com]

But if you have the patience, professional help and money you can navigate this legal and financial maze.

The Chinese entrepreneur Jin Shan Zhang paid 4 million euros in 2012 for the Chateau Grand Moueys in Entre-Deux-Mers, a wine-growing region in Bordeaux, France. His plan was to create a "Chinese and French cultural exchange" at the chateau. Nearly three years later, he is still renovating the rooms on the ground floor and hopes to open an upscale Chinese restaurant.

Zhang owns a travel agency in China as well as one of the largest drink brands in the country, while Chateau Grand Moueys covers 170 hectares with vineyards spanning 58.5 hectares.

"It may take years to complete the renovation projects compared to just months in the domestic market," he said. "But you really just have to take your time."

Palatial playgrounds in Europe

? Kinpurnie Castle

Location: Scotland, United Kingdom

Cost: Offers over 2.1 million GBP ($3.2 million)

A baronial-style mansion, Kinpurnie Castle is located near the village of Newtyle in the county of Angus in Perthshire, Scotland. Historically listed, the mansion dates back to 1907. Finished off with a slate roof, Kinpurnie Castle boosts tower turrets. The interior has a wealth of period features, including an oak-paneled reception hall.

Information: Savills plc

? French chateau

Location: Amboise, Indre-et-Loire, Central France

Cost: 2.5 million euros ($2.74 million)

This chateau is located in the Loire Valley and dates back to the 16th and 18th centuries. It stands on 15 hectares of land. The ground floor includes a dining room, a large kitchen, a living room, two offices and a music room. The first and second floors have two lounges and libraries, and include an assortment of bedrooms and bathrooms.

Information: Moulin International Property

? French chateau

Location: Perigord, Dordogne, France

Cost: 15.5 million euros

The chateau lies in more than 500 hectares of land in southwest France and is steeped in history. First built in 1143, it was restructured in 1740. Since then, it has never been modified and retains all its original features, contents and early 18th century charm. The chateau has 25 bedrooms, a stunning entrance hall, with a sweeping stone staircase and classic tiled floor.