Vikingsholm

Closed. But not really. Don't let "closed" deter you from going here. Arrive early as the lot seems to fill on nice days. Easy walk downhill to waters edge and buildings. Closed only means you can't enter the castle. Yet there is still so much to appreciate surrounded by nature and interesting architecture. Hike to the falls. And be sure to go the extra 0.2 to the upper falls. That's just a bit past the bridge that goes over the lower falls area. The hike up isn't long but may take some encouragement for the younger ones. Footing is flat wide and pebbles. The bottom has a dock, still waters, falls, buildings and gentle wildlife. May even make friends with a duck.

If Vikingsholm is open and you plan to swim, definitely go down the trail. Otherwise, I’d recommend skipping the hike because the view from Inspiration Point is even better and less effort.

Absolutely stunning area to visit. Best to come early to get a park. $3 for 1 hour or $10 for the day. It’s a 1.6km walk down to the water. The walk up is quite steep but plenty of opportunities to stop along the way with bench seats. Would recommend to anyone visiting the lake to do this walk.

"Finest Scandinavian Architecture" in entire North America is very aptly ascribed to this fine villa. Built with Passion and Love, the solitary house stands out amongst all the other Holiday Homes of the Rich & Mighty of the 20th Century USA.

Very cool home nestled right next to emerald bay at Lake Tahoe. Pretty easy mile or so hike down to the home. It cost 18 dollars per adult to take the tour but it was very worth to cost. Also keep in mind parking is a mess and isn’t free. We parked about a half mile away from the start of the one mile hike. The detail on the home is amazing and it is truly an amazing story of wealth, generosity, and love for others. If you can make it go!! Also neat short hike behind the home to eagle falls. Shore swimming in the lake if you want to cool off too!

A very unique home at Lake Tahoe..as far as historical homes, this seems very liveable. It's on the Emerald Bay part of Tahoe which is aptly named. There is a boat ride to the home which can be very windy even on a hot day. The boat ride captain has a wealth of knowledge about the area! This may be my favorite home of all time.

Great hike on Emerald Bay. Be warned it's an easy walk down but a steep hike back up to the parking lot, so it is NOT for physically challenged people or anyone with a heart condition. This is clearly signposted several times but I get the idea people ignore it Extremely rewarding views, and we even saw a bear sow with her cubs, right in the path.

Beautiful place. Hike is somewhat challenging back up. Go before 9:00 a.m. Even though it doesn't open yet or you will not get parking at the top. Beach is pretty, however after a few hours boaters come and completely take over would not recommend as a beach day