This summer, we embarked on a memorable family trip to the majestic Boldt Castle, an enchanting destination nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands on the St. Lawrence River. From the moment we set eyes on the towering turrets of this grand estate, we knew we were in for an unforgettable experience.
The trip itself was carefully planned by the incredible Katherine Jacobsen at Travel with Katherine on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556530372450), who made sure every detail was covered—from our ferry rides to the perfect spots for family photos. Her expertise ensured that our adventure was smooth, exciting, and packed with fun!
A Castle with a Love Story
Boldt Castle is not just an architectural masterpiece; it's a testament to love. The story behind its construction is as captivating as the castle itself. In 1900, George C. Boldt, a wealthy hotel magnate, began building this stunning castle as a gift for his beloved wife, Louise. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Louise passed away suddenly in 1904, and construction came to a halt. George was heartbroken and never returned to the castle, leaving it unfinished for over 70 years. It wasn't until 1977 that the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took over the restoration of this magnificent structure, preserving it for future generations to enjoy.
Exploring the Castle
Our day began with a scenic boat ride from Alexandria Bay, New York, to Heart Island, where Boldt Castle stands proudly. As we approached, the kids were amazed by the size of the castle—it's like something out of a fairy tale! The estate includes not only the castle but also a powerhouse, a stone gazebo, and a beautifully manicured garden, making it a perfect place for family exploration.
Inside the castle, we wandered through room after room of intricate woodwork, stained glass, and restored furniture. The kids were particularly fascinated by the secret staircases and the grand ballroom. We all enjoyed the breathtaking views of the river from the balconies, and of course, we snapped lots of family photos to capture the magic.
### Fun Facts We Learned Along the Way
- The Powerhouse: The kids were thrilled to visit the Boldt Castle powerhouse, a structure that was originally intended to supply electricity to the island. It looks like a mini castle itself!
- Heart Island: Did you know that Heart Island, where the castle is located, was landscaped in the shape of a heart as part of George Boldt's romantic gesture to his wife? It’s true!
- A Hidden Pool: In the unfinished areas of the castle, we discovered that George Boldt had planned an indoor pool—a rare luxury for the time.
- Bridge to Canada: The Thousand Islands region is home to the Thousand Islands International Bridge, which connects the U.S. and Canada, making Boldt Castle easily accessible from either side of the border.
A Family Day Well Spent
After our castle tour, we spent some time in the gardens, where the kids ran around while we soaked in the beauty of the surroundings. We ended our day with a relaxing boat ride back, already planning our next family adventure. Boldt Castle offered not only a glimpse into the area's rich history but also countless opportunities for fun, learning, and bonding.
A huge thank you again to Katherine Jacobsen at Travel with Katherine on Facebook for planning such a flawless trip. If you're looking to create lasting family memories, Boldt Castle should definitely be on your list! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556530372450 @TravelwithKatherine
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