When you say hey….I stayed the night in a castle, visions of a Cinderella type mountain top postcard shot come to mind. Well you don’t need to go to Austria or Switzerland to cross this one off you bucket list. Just head to the beautiful pacific northwest. Manresa Castle is one of the most enchanting bed and breakfast we have found.
We rolled up to the Castle late on a misty evening. We were stunned the next morning to throw open the drapes and we were overpowered by the dramatic view. Perched on an overlook of the San Juan Islands-the view is simply not to be missed.
The Castle is steeped in history, and finely restored. From the Castle’s Website:
“The Castle was completed in 1892 as the home of Charles and Kate Eisenbeis. Mr. Eisenbeis was a prominent member of the early Port Townsend business community. His business interests were diverse including a bakery, brick works, lumber mill, brewery, bank and a hotel.
In keeping with his status in the community, Eisenbeis built what was the largest private residence ever built in Port Townsend, consisting of 30 rooms. Locals referred to the building as the “Eisenbeis Castle;” its design was reminiscent of some of the castles in Eisenbeis’ native Prussia.”
The rooms are spacious with “bizzillion” foot tall ceilings. Room furnishing are a bit understated. But the common rooms, especially the library and the bar are impressive.
What would you expect? The food is fit for a king! Chef Chad Woodland is a master! Loved the fresh pacnorthwest seafood! Here is a link to the menu.
We kept saying to each other…wouldn’t this be such a cool place to get married. You bride to be’s looking for a great place for a location wedding..look no further. Imagine the bragging rites: Yeah…I got married in a Castle.
Port Townsend is a quaint Victorian seaport, located across the sound from Seattle, WA. The area is chock full of fun. Port Townsend has it all: wineries, golf, whale watching, and even a rain forest!
Getting there is half the adventure:
By car: From points south, you follow Highway 104 across the Hood Canal bridge and take the SR 19 exit to Port Townsend. If you are coming from the west, follow scenic Highway 101 to the SR 20 turnoff to Port Townsend. From points north, you can take the coastal roads on Whidbey Island and board the ferry at Keystone.
We are Mike and Luci.