Boldt Castle
One of the last remaining symbols of true American grandeur in the Thousand Islands, this sprawling stone mansion built by Waldorf-Astoria Hotel owner George C. Boldt casts a regal presence over Heart Island and the shoreline of Alexandria Bay. With turrets and tunnels, a drawbridge, a Gaudí-like kid's playhouse, its own power house, and formal gardens, the castle and all its pieces are dazzling -- and look entirely out of place today. The home comes with a sad tale: Boldt had the castle built over the course of 4 years to give to his wife on her birthday in 1904 -- Valentine's Day -- but she died a month before and the castle, 80% complete, was never occupied. After falling into disrepair, it's been slowly restored, but by design will never be more than 80% complete. The few restored areas are gorgeous: There's an oval stained-glass window in the foyer ceiling, a formal dining room, an impressive billiards room, and the most recent renovation: George Boldt's bedroom. (Coming soon: renovations of the rooms intended for Boldt's wife and daughter.) But most of the house is still gutted, so you won't spend as much time as expected during your self-guided tour. Still, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the 5-acre island's grounds. Then take the shuttle to the Yacht House and check out Boldt's amazing collection of antique wooden boats.
One of the last remaining symbols of true American grandeur in the Thousand Islands, this sprawling stone mansion built by Waldorf-Astoria Hotel owner George C. Boldt casts a regal presence over Heart Island and the shoreline of Alexandria Bay. With turrets and tunnels, a drawbridge, a Gaudí-like kid's playhouse, its own power house, and formal gardens, the castle and all its pieces are dazzling -- and look entirely out of place today. The home comes with a sad tale: Boldt had the castle built over the course of 4 years to give to his wife on her birthday in 1904 -- Valentine's Day -- but she died a month before and the castle, 80% complete, was never occupied. After falling into disrepair, it's been slowly restored, but by design will never be more than 80% complete. The few restored areas are gorgeous: There's an oval stained-glass window in the foyer ceiling, a formal dining room, an impressive billiards room, and the most recent renovation: George Boldt's bedroom. (Coming soon: renovations of the rooms intended for Boldt's wife and daughter.) But most of the house is still gutted, so you won't spend as much time as expected during your self-guided tour. Still, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the 5-acre island's grounds. Then take the shuttle to the Yacht House and check out Boldt's amazing collection of antique wooden boats.
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