Taking its inspiration from medieval Nordic architecture, Vikingsholm Castle was built in the late 1920's. The fortress is situated within the protective confines of Emerald Bay State Park, in South Lake Tahoe, California, and is considered a popular, summer attraction. The attraction is accessible by either private boat or traversing a steep, mile long trail. Visitors to this historic getaway will be awed by the majestic splendor of the grounds as well as the castle's magnificent construction.

Located in El Dorado County, the protected inlet of Emerald Bay and its steep slopes so inspired the owner, Mrs. Lora Knight, of the Fjords of Norway that she commissioned a relative by marriage to design the structure. The project was completed in 1929 and became the summer home of Mrs. Knight from mid June until the middle of September yearly.

Vikingsholm's exterior is silhouetted against massive evergreens of pine and cedar. Granite cliffs etch the background which is in stark contrast to the pink and red Columbine that speckle the sod seeded roof of the castle. In keeping with Nordic or Scandinavian tradition, the thirty-eight room interior of the castle welcomes sightseers to a glimpse into the past from its handcrafted carvings around the doors, Scandinavian antiques, to the Nordic fireplaces. There are two, authentic dragon beams that hang from the living room's ceiling, reinforcing the Norse belief of their symbol of power and strength.

Guided one half hour tours are available from mid June until the end of September, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. with the last tour of the day beginning at 4:00 p.m. Because of the limited parking at Vikingsholm, morning tours are strongly recommended. On the one mile hike to the castle, visitors can stop along the way at one of the several resting spots to enjoy the lush landscape dotted with wildflowers or perhaps catch a peek of a Bald Eagle. For your convenience, there is additional parking in the Day Use Area of Eagle Point State Park. Its 1.7 mile hike is longer but it is not as steep as the trail located at Vikingsholm. Comfortable footwear is advised for both locations

This tidbit of real Lake Tahoe travel advice was brought to you by Joanne Mansfield.