Heart Island: The Heart-Shaped Island Near New York
When you think of New York, the famous Central Park, or the unmistakable Empire State, appear in your mind. Of course, the Times Square area and the Statue of Liberty. The truth is that, although these are some of the most visited tourist places in the Big Apple, there are many places that, in addition to being very close, are original and have an interesting history.
Located in Alexandria Bay, Heart Island is one of the Thousand Islands located between the United States and Canada and draws powerful attention for its particular heart shape. Ironically, it contains a tragic love story at Castle Boldt.
The Thousand Islands are a group of more than 1,800 islands located in the Saint Lawrence River, north of New York and just about five hours from Manhattan. To be considered part of this region, islands must be at least one square foot (0.09 square meters) in area year-round and have at least two live trees.
Today, the Thousand Islands have become a popular tourist destination, although they were initially inhabited by the Ojibwa and Iroquois Confederacy peoples. It was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that they began to attract visitors from all over the world. This region is divided between the state of New York and the Canadian province of Ontario. Among the best-known islands are Wolfe, Howe, Wellesley, Grindstone, Carleton and Just Room Enough, the latter famous for being the smallest and most inhabited in the world. However, Heart Island becomes special, standing out not only for its shape but also for the romantic and tragic history of its castle.
The History of Heart Island and Boldt Castle
Heart Island owes its name to its heart shape, which has made it a symbol of love in the United States. The story goes that George Boldt, who was general director of the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York, decided to build one of the largest castles in the country on this island as a gift to his wife, Louise Augusta Kehrer, at the beginning of the 20th century.
The original plan, according to the official Boldt Castle site, was to build a six-story structure with 120 rooms, internal tunnels, a power plant, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, a tower for the family’s children, and a dovecote. However, after four years of work, the project was abruptly abandoned due to Louise’s sudden death. Devastated, George Boldt decided to never return to this site.
Unfortunately, for many years, the castle was exposed to the elements until 1977 when it was acquired by The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority (TIBA) for the purpose of restoration. Over time, millions of dollars were invested to recover and preserve Boldt Castle.
Today, Boldt Castle is a popular tourist attraction, with free admission and open to the public until October 14. Visitors can access the castle via cruise ship or private boats. In addition, the place is famous for being an ideal destination for weddings and romantic events, consolidating its reputation as one of the most romantic islands in the archipelago.
Recommended Places to Eat and Walk
For those who decide to include this site in their itinerary, you should know that in the region you can enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer local delicacies. Among the most recommended are The Wellesley Hotel Restaurant, known for its gourmet cuisine and panoramic views, and The Thousand Islands Inn, which provides a cozier experience with traditional dishes. For seafood lovers, The Fisherman’s Grill is a must-see, famous for its fresh fish and shellfish.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, Thousand Islands National Park, on the Canadian side, is a great place to enjoy nature, with plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for bird watching. Another option is to visit the Boldt Yacht House, where tourists can admire antique vessels and learn about the nautical history of the region.
Tips of the Area
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Thousand Islands is during the summer, from June to September, when the weather is warmer and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car to explore the region more comfortably. There are also cruise ships that offer tours to visit the islands.
Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options, from hotels and resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season.
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