Vikingsholm
South Shore (CA)
- Type Museums & Historical Sites
- Region South Shore (CA)
Summary
Features: Gorgeously incorporated into the natural Emerald Bay landscape, Vikingsholm Castle Lake Tahoe is a rare and deeply historic example of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere. Majestically located among the towering cedars and pines, tourists can also make the short trek to nearby water falls provides additional scenic bonuses.
Why We Go: There really is nothing else quite like Vikingsholm Emerald Bay in the Lake Tahoe area. For a change of pace from the small town vibe and typical beaches, experience a does of fascinating history and breath-taking scenery at Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe.
- History Lesson: Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe is the former summer home of Mrs. Lora J. Knight, whose background behind her decision to build Vikingsholm and her family history provide for a fascinating tour.
- Hiking: The trek from the parking lot to Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe is about one mile, and then the trek from the castle to Lower Eagle Falls is about one half mile. No matter where you go within Emerald Bay, the hike is well worth it.
- Picnic Spot: Tourists can easily turn a trip to Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe into a full-day endeavor by hiking through Emerald Bay and packing a picnic lunch. Plenty of gorgeous lookout points and benches and other stopping points make it easy to not get tired.
Inside Knowledge: When Lora J. Knight had Vikingsholm Tahoe built, she ordered that no trees were cut down in the process. Thus, many areas of the mansion incorporate trees in a fascinating and creative manner.
Do's and Don'ts:
- Do Pack Water and Snacks: Even though the walk down from the parking lot is not treacherous by any means, the walk back up can be an altitude shock to your system, and you don't want to be caught without ample water and snacks to replenish your system.
- Do Take the Tour: For the nominal fee involved in taking a guided tour at Vikingsholm Castle Lake Tahoe, visitors receive a true understanding and appreciation of what they're visiting. It's only 30 minutes, so there's not nearly enough time to get bored.
- Don't Miss Fannette Island: While you're out at Vikingsholm Emerald Bay, make the short trek to check out Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe.
- Don't Leave the Dog at Home: Canines are allowed on the hiking trails in Emerald Bay, so bring the entire family along.
Vikingsholm
Vikingsholm Information
Info
Hours:
10:30am- 4:30pm
When to Go:
Summer
Age Restriction:
None
Phone:
530.525.3345
Website:
http://www.vikingsholm.org/
Important Information:
Bring sturdy shoes to hike in, because there is a bit of a trek from the parking lot to the castle.
Quick Facts
- Built by Lora J. Knight, Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere.
- Tours are available at Vikingsholm Castle Lake Tahoe from Memorial Day weekend until the last week of September.
- Vikingsholm Lake Tahoe is located on the shore of Emerald Bay and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Address:
11001 W Lake Blvd
Tahoma, CA 96142
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User Average Review
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Vikingsholm Reviews
Vikingsholm Hotel
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Comments
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A.T.E
Mar 12, 2013
at 12:16 am
Joined: March 2013
xxx.xxx.22.3
Would not recommend to a friend
Date visited: 3/13
Please call ahead. . . (530) 525-9530
The place was closed, CALL FIRST. . .We hiked a mile in and a mile out, great exercise! Beautiful scenery, it would have been nice had there been a sign that it was closed and we would have hiked elsewhere, like Eagle Falls 500 ft. away. The place looks as though it has been closed for a long time. . . Please call ahead before you go. . . (530) 525-9530
Sort Reviews By: | | |
A.T.E
Mar 12, 2013
at 12:16 am
Joined: March 2013
xxx.xxx.22.3
Would not recommend to a friend
Date visited: 3/13
Please call ahead. . . (530) 525-9530
The place was closed, CALL FIRST. . .We hiked a mile in and a mile out, great exercise! Beautiful scenery, it would have been nice had there been a sign that it was closed and we would have hiked elsewhere, like Eagle Falls 500 ft. away. The place looks as though it has been closed for a long time. . . Please call ahead before you go. . . (530) 525-9530