Vikingsholm Castle
NileGuide Expert Says:
For a quirky, interesting, architectural walk, Vikingsholm wins.
User Rating:
Address:
Highway 89
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96143
Phone:
+1 530 525 7277
NileGuide Expert tip:
The beach in front of Vikingsholm is usually pretty empty. Nice place for a picnic.
Description:
America is too young to have European-caliber castles, but that doesn't mean there aren't some fascinating bits of architecture peppering the country. Vikingsholm is one such gem, and anyone interested in history, architecture and, well, vikings, will be fascinated by Vikingsholm. Lora Josephine Knight began construction on her estate in 1928. 200 workers were employed to carve the intricate viking designs by hand, and all the hinges around the house were hand-forged as well. In keeping with its viking style, the house uses almost no nails or screws in its design, and the grass hnaging over the rafters is from, you guessed it, a legitimate sod roof. Take a tour of the interior and you'll see plenty of authentic Scandinavian furniture and artwork. Admission is USD1 for adults, and children are free. This site is accessed from Emerald Bay State Park, also known as the D.L. Bliss State Park.
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