Miramont Castle: Victorian Grandeur In The Heart Of The Rockies
Nestled on the slopes of Manitou Springs, with Pike’s Peak rising overhead and mineral springs flowing nearby, Miramont Castle is a jewel of the Colorado Rockies. Built in 1895, this eclectic Victorian estate blends medieval charm with mountain mystique, offering visitors a step back into an era of refinement, ambition, and architectural wonder.
A Mansion with Many Faces
Miramont Castle isn’t just a home—it’s a Victorian-era statement piece, fusing multiple architectural styles under one turreted roof.
- Built by Father Jean Baptiste Francolon, a French Catholic priest with both wealth and vision
- Combines Gothic, Victorian, Tudor, and Romanesque elements—each wing tells its own story
- Constructed using locally quarried greenstone, it rises organically from the hillside
- Originally served as both a private residence and a sanitarium for tuberculosis patients, run by the Sisters of Mercy
Inside, the castle feels like a curated time capsule. From stained glass and hand-carved woodwork to 40 intricately styled rooms, it’s a blend of grandeur and practical design rooted in the high-altitude life of 19th-century Colorado.
A Window into Victorian Mountain Life
Visiting Miramont Castle today is like walking through a layered history book, with each room reflecting a different piece of regional culture:
- Parlor rooms and formal dining areas showcase Victorian social customs
- The Queen’s Parlour Tea Room offers a traditional high tea experience, a favorite among guests
- Firefighting museum exhibits highlight the early days of Manitou Springs’ first responders
- A Victorian-era kitchen and servants’ quarters offer a glimpse into daily life behind the grandeur
Interactive exhibits and local artifacts bring to life the story of how settlers, clergy, and early medical practitioners shaped Colorado’s mountain towns.
Visiting Miramont Castle: What to Know
📍 Address: 9 Capitol Hill Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
🕒 Hours: Open daily, typically from 10am–4pm (seasonal hours may vary)
💵 Admission: Adults ~$12, Seniors ~$10, Children ~$6
♿ Accessibility: Due to the age and layout of the castle, upper floors may not be wheelchair accessible
🫖 Victorian Tea Room: Open seasonally; reservations recommended for full tea service
📞 Website: miramontcastle.org
Tip: Visit in spring or early summer for blooming gardens and mild weather. The castle sits just minutes from the Manitou Incline, Garden of the Gods, and charming downtown shops.
Why Spring is a Perfect Time to Visit
The warmer months breathe new life into Miramont’s gardens, with lilacs, wildflowers, and mountain greenery returning to the surrounding landscape. Spring also kicks off:
- Seasonal reopening of the Victorian Tea Room
- Local festivals like the Manitou Springs Wine Festival and Herb Fest
- Ideal weather for walking tours and day hikes in nearby parks
This seasonal renewal makes spring an ideal backdrop for a visit—and a perfect companion to our regional feature,
👉 It’s Springtime in the Rockies (link placeholder)
What Visitors Are Saying
“It’s like a castle you’d stumble across in a fairy tale—tucked into the mountains, full of mystery and charm.”
— Emma R., Colorado Springs
“The tea room was a highlight! Sitting by stained glass windows sipping Earl Grey after exploring the castle—it felt like stepping back in time.”
— Janice M., Albuquerque
“We almost skipped it for Garden of the Gods, but I’m so glad we didn’t. It was one of the most memorable parts of our trip.”
— Trevor L., Kansas City
Dining & Lodging Nearby
Where to Eat:
- Cliff House Dining Room – Upscale historic hotel dining
- Adam’s Mountain Café – Local favorite with organic dishes
- Manitou Brewing Company – Casual bites and craft beer
Where to Stay:
- The Cliff House at Pikes Peak – Historic inn with luxury suites
- Blue Skies Inn – Whimsical B&B just steps from the castle
- Magnuson Hotel Manitou Springs – Budget-friendly, mountain-view rooms
Extras for the Curious Traveler
Suggested Reading:
- “Victorian Colorado: A Cultural History” by Rachel Kline
- “Haunted Places of the Rockies” – includes legends about Miramont Castle
Nearby Highlights:
- Cave of the Winds – Underground caverns and adventure tours
- Manitou Springs Penny Arcade – Retro fun for kids and adults
- Garden of the Gods – One of Colorado’s most iconic natural sites
Final Thoughts
Miramont Castle may not be as famous as grander estates, but its mountain mystique and layered history make it a standout destination. Whether you’re drawn to its eclectic architecture, intrigued by its spiritual and medical past, or simply enchanted by the views—this castle in the clouds offers a unique blend of refinement and resilience.
Come in spring to see it in bloom, and stay to explore the region’s deeper stories.
