Fodor's Expert Review Vikingsholm

Emerald Bay State Park Historic Home

This 38-room estate was completed in 1929, a precise copy of a 1,200-year-old Viking castle. Its original owner, Lora Knight, furnished it with Scandinavian antiques and hired artisans to build period reproductions. The sod roof sprouts wildflowers each spring. A steep 1-mile-long trail from the Emerald Bay lookout leads down to Vikingsholm. The hike back up is challenging, especially for those not acclimated to the elevation, although there are benches and stone culverts to rest on. (Avoid the hike by taking a cruise; check the website for vendor information.)

At the 150-foot peak of Fannette Island are the ruins of a stone structure called the Tea House, built for Knight's guests to enjoy refreshments. The island is off-limits from February through mid-June to protect nesting Canada geese. The rest of the year, it's open for day use.

Historic Home Family

Quick Facts

Hwy. 89
California  96142, USA

530-541–6498

sierrastateparks.org/vikingsholm

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: Day-use parking fee $10; mansion tour $18, Closed Oct.–May (can vary slightly)

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