For anyone visiting Southern Colorado for the first time, it’s not unusual for their jaws to drop. Once you witness the looming peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges, you’ll realize that you’ve found the ideal mountain getaway. While lodging in Westcliffe, you’ll feel as if the entire area is yours to explore, because in a way— it is.
Westcliffe and its neighboring town of Silver Cliff have very low populations, but that doesn’t mean that there is a shortage of things to do, quite the opposite! So far in our blogs focused on Westcliffe, we’ve given you some incredible things to add on your travel itinerary such as inimitable stargazing at Smokey Jack Observatory (remember to book a private star party), learning about and encountering wolves at the Mission: Wolf Sanctuary, and exploring the beauty and vastness of San Isabel National Forest. Those three on their own are enough for an unforgettable Southern Colorado vacation — but we’re only getting started!
In between your hiking, boating, swimming, biking, hunting (you get the picture) adventures in San Isabel National Forest, there is a fascinating place created by a determined man. Found amongst the mountains and within the trees lies a castle. Yes, a castle! In this post, we’ll give you a little background of Bishop Castle, the one man that built it, and why it will make a great addition to your Southern Colorado vacation.
Bishop Castle
If one were to stumble upon Bishop Castle, they might think they have been transported into a land of make believe. The stone castle is three full stories of interior rooms, towers, bridges, a grand ballroom, and to top it all off — a fire-breathing dragon! The castle is truly fascinating, and what’s even more intriguing is the fact that it has all been built by one man!
At a young age, Jim Bishopp realized that he enjoyed working hard and following his marriage at 25 years old, he decided to build a cabin in the mountains. It began small, and with the accessibility of rocks in the area (for free), he decided it would be a stone cabin. From the beginning, friends and family would ask him if he was building a castle and after being asked this many a time, he came to the conclusion, why not?
To this day, after nearly 60 years, Jim continues to work on his castle. If you’re looking to see something unique, beautiful, and a testament to sticking with your dreams through dedication, be sure to visit Bishop castle. Not only is it always open for visitors, but it is free of charge too and is a great spot for a picnic or just to rest your weary feet after a great hike. Be sure to visit the Bishop Castle website to view just how spectacular it is!
Visit SoCo
Bishop Castle will offer a great reprieve from all of the outdoor activities you’re going to be involved in. Marvel at the incredible work of one man amongst the peaks in San Isabel National Forest. Whether you stay at Lamp Post Lodge or the nearby Hillside Cottages, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Southern Colorado. Be sure to continue to follow our blog to keep planning out your mountain getaway and book your room today!
