Gillette Castle State Park

Snap some shots outside, your the beautiful gardens and water views, and then take a tour of the rustic/cabin style interior.
Snap some shots outside, your the beautiful gardens and water views, and then take a tour of the rustic/cabin style interior.
#stunningstructures this little gem on the Connecticut river was a surprise find!
One New Years Eve, my sister and I made the decision to drive up to Maine, as far east as we could get to be among the first to see the sun rise New Year's Day in America.  On our way back from this pretty epic adventure (it was a long drive considering both of us had worked until about 10 pm New Years Eve!), we passed by a sign for Gilette Castle in Connecticut.  On a whim we decided to stop by- because adventure was what this trip was all about!  Well, we found it which was no easy feat.  We took all back roads which were not lit and it was pretty dark by the time we made it there.  The castle tours were closed for the season but we did get the opportunity to walk around the absolutely beautiful park that the castle sat on.  We were blown away- this place was incredible!  We vowed to make the trip again during the summer when it was warm and hopefully still daylight!

And that is what this picture is from.  It took several years but we did make it back!  It was June, so all of the trees are in full bloom and it made a stroll through the park just perfect.  We got to check out the outside of the castle in depth (unfortunately we were too late in the day for an inside tour, but peeking through the windows let me see how fancy-pants it was in there).  

Here is what I learned: This castle was built in 1919 (well, that's when it was finished anyway) for the famous produced/actor William Gilette, who was best known as the original Sherlock Holmes!  He designed what he wanted and this was the home he retired to!  I couldn't picture a more fitting place.  

If you happen to be in the area, check out this tucked away spot in Connecticut.  The drive alone is exquisitely beautiful and worth it!
Gillette Castle State Park Home to famous Actor William Gillette.  A door inside the interior of the Castle ! And interesting find I. Connecticut


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The George
NobleDEN Hotel
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