While many consumers enjoyed a second day of sales tax-free shopping in Massachusetts, I left the state early this morning for the rustic charms of Moultonborough, New Hampshire, a small town on the northwestern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. Here in the Lakes Region, one of the most visited attractions is the estate now known as Castle in the Clouds.

Built in 1913-1914 as a mountain-top retreat by a rags-to-riches shoe manufacturing tycoon, it was home for Thomas Plant and his wife Olive for over 25 years. A millionaire when he built the property, Mr. Plant subsequently lost most of his fortune. During the Great Depression, he attempted to sell the property but was unsuccessful, so he and Olive continued living there until his death in 1941, at which time Olive moved to California.

In 2003, after a series of negotiations, the Castle and the surrounding 5500 acres were purchased by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust. Here is a view of the Castle looking up from the footpath that leads to the Carriage House, a view of the Castle entrance, a view of Ossipee Mountain from one of the second floor bedrooms, and a view of the Lake from the Terrace (these are all clickable thumbnail images):

Lucknow, as the estate was named by the Plants, is a striking example of the Arts and Crafts style, and in its design and construction, it expresses this early 20th century movement’s aesthetic philosophy of living in harmony with nature. The Boston firm of J. William Beal & Sons is credited with the architectural plans for the castle, while 1200 mostly Italian stonemasons were responsible for the granite exterior and other skilled craftsmen for the exquisite interior details. My camera’s flash decided to work today, so I was able to photograph some of the rooms:

Here are some photos of the exterior showing the beautiful stonework:

This artistic gem is considered a historic home of national importance because it retains all of its original features and furnishings. A major renovation is currently in progress, scheduled for completion in 2014, the 100th anniversary of the Castle’s construction.

Visitors to the Castle can tour the Castle Springs bottling plant on the adjacent property, but I looked at the sky and saw a layer of cumulus clouds at 6000 feet so hurried on home.