Exploring Boldt Castle, What to do in Gananoque
Perfect Day Trips in Ontario, Visiting the Thousand Islands Region
Apr 18, 2009
Gananoque, Ontario is within a half a day drive from Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, making it a popular summer vacation spot. Located along the St. Lawrence River, boat cruises and tours are an obvious draw. Gananoque Boat Line offers several different cruises during the summer season all of which depart from the docks located at Main and Water Street.
Three Hour Boat Cruise and Two Hour Stop at Boldt Castle
The full day excursion to Boldt Castle is a relaxing day on the water. The hour and a half cruise to and from the castle gives a picturesque look at the lush forests and huge homes that are on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.
Located on Heart Island, the history behind Boldt Castle is as romantic as it is sad. George C. Boldt, a successful business man and founding owner of the famous Waldorf Astoria in New York City, built Boldt Castle as a summer home for his wife Louise. A grand gesture of his love to her, Boldt hired artists and craftsmen to create a European style castle from the 16th century here on the St. Lawrence River.
The family did summer here often, although when Louise died suddenly in 1904 all construction stopped. The castle, unfinished and left to deteriorate was empty until 1977 when The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took over. The restoration is ongoing so it is a work in progress. Head up to the fourth floor and to the observation deck, the view is magnificent and it is easier to see the smaller details on the roof. Look for the large hearts and stag deer that are strategically placed amongst the turrets.
Other spots of interest at Boldt Castle
- the pool and underground passageway
- the Alster Tower (children’s playhouse)
- the swan pond and Roman Arch
- the Power House
Boldt Castle Yacht House and Antique Wooden Boats
The Boldt family owned several yachts and a houseboat. Boating enthusiasts may find this quick side trip to the Yacht House interesting. A short boat shuttle across to Wellesley Island gives a closer look at the impressive structure. The Yacht House is 64 feet tall with a beautiful shingled roof and gigantic mechanical doors. It was the first Boldt property to be listed on The National Register of Historical Places. Inside is a display of old wooden boats from the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY and a huge wall of photographs of the Boldt family throughout the years.
The two hour stop over on Heart Island is not enough time to see all of Boldt Castle and the Yacht House so choose wisely. Missing the boat will result in a very expensive trip back to Canada.
Spending the day cruising The Thousand Islands and exploring Boldt Castle is a fascinating day trip when visiting Gananoque, Ontario in the summer.
Sources
Boldt Castle- 1-800-847-5263 Open May until October- $6.50 USD ($3.00 Yacht House)
Gananoque Boat Line- 1-888-717-4837 May until October - $30.00 CAD (cruise only)
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