Palaces and royalty typically go hand in hand, which is why you may not think that Massachusetts has much to offer in the way of hidden fairytale castles. Enter Wheatleigh, the breathtaking Gilded Age palace that’s hiding in a secluded corner of the Berkshires. Every inch of this place is dripping with finery and romance. If you’re looking for a dreamy day trip, this is it.
This dazzling palace is tucked away in the hills of the Berkshires.
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Wheatleigh was built in 1893 by Henry H. Cook as a wedding gift for his daughter Georgie and her new husband, the Spanish count Carlos de Heredia.
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The palace is based on a 16th-century Florentine palazzo. Over 150 artisans and many of the materials were brought directly from Italy.
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This place wasn’t even meant to be the newlyweds’ main home, but simply their “summer cottage.”
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Incredibly, the Count and Countess only stayed here for a few weeks a year.
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That’s a real shame, as this “cottage” is absolutely stunning in the winter.
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Wheatleigh was the site of countless Gilded Age parties and events, where European aristocrats and moneyed Americans would dance and drink long into the night.
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Today, Wheatleigh is privately owned and operates as a hotel.
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How much lighter will your wallet be after a stay at Wheatleigh?
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The ultra-luxe Terrace Suite will run you a dizzying $675 per night. You can also book exclusive use of The Palazzo, including the restaurant, 19 guest rooms, and all facilities.
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If that’s too rich for your taste, just stop by for a bite to eat. All the glamour with a much smaller price tag.
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The restaurant at Wheatleigh is sublime. Their formal option is simply called “The Dining Room.”
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Travel & Leisure calls the fare here “some of the best cooking in the United States.” There is also more casual dining in The Library.
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It may have been built to delight royalty, but this Massachusetts palace now welcomes all visitors.
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Wheatleigh can be found at Hawthorne Road in Lenox (there’s no number). The palace is a particularly stunning place to get married, along with these 10 incredible wedding spots in Massachusetts.
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