Chateau-sur-Mer, Newport

After I got there I didn't even notice there are anything special about the place... If you have something else to do just skip this one.

It is a really great mansion to tour and to compare to the elaborate Elms or Breakers. However, I wouldn't put it in the category of "do not miss".

This is an amazing Victorian mansion which preceded the over-the-top Gilded Age mansions that were to follow. The hill-top setting is spectacular, although the original owners sold the ocean-front part of this property where The Breakers and other mansions were eventually built. The interior contains beautiful decorative pieces from China and a wealth of French-inspired design. The Newport Preservation Society provided a very knowledgeable tour guide who explained the history of both the home and the family who originally occupied it. We toured here as part of the $31 ticket to visit any 5 of the Newport Preservation Society's properties - - a real bargain that can be purchased at the Newport Visitors' Center or at any of the homes owned by the Preservation Society. Do take the time to tour outside and see the “Monkey Gate” and the spectacular grounds which include a perfectly-manicured croquet court.

I've been to almost all of the Newport mansions and there are only a couple that, while elegant, fall more into the category of an actually "livable" home. This is one of them. I greatly enjoyed the Morris wallpaper and subtle Art Nouveau touches in this home. The woodwork throughout is magnificent. I only wish there were even more rooms available for viewing, such as the kitchen, or perhaps, servants' quarters. I would definitely go back for another tour.

Amazing victorian and italianate architecture and interior design. Gorgeous wood carving, parquetry floors, original 1852 wall coverings and stained glass windows. And go outside to see the old specimen trees, including some awesome, intimidating European beeches.

I loved how beautiful this is its an amazing experience. Everyone who wants to travel to Rhode Island better go here. In Newport. It's B-E-A-utiful. If you ever go to the garden watch out there is construction.