Port Townsend is Washington’s historic Victorian village. Between its romantic seaside charms, its lively history, and the abundance of paranormal activity, this little city attracts all kinds of tourists. So it makes sense that one of Washington’s only castles, Manresa Castle, is located here. And believe it or not, this spacious hotel was once a private residence in what must have been a very rough life.

Manresa Castle was originally constructed in 1892 as the home of Charles and Kate Eisenbeis.

Management / TripAdvisor Charles was a prominent member of the early Port Townsend business community, and he was eventually elected as the city’s first mayor.

The business interests of Charles Eisenbeis were diverse, including including a bakery, brick works, a lumber mill, a brewery, a hotel, and even a bank.

Management / TripAdvisor This allowed him to build the largest private residence ever built in Port Townsend (complete with 30 rooms). Locals referred to it as the Eisenbeis Castle.

Charles died in 1902, and Kate remarried a few years later. The Castle was left empty for almost 20 years with the exception of its caretaker.

TJ151 / TripAdvisor In 1927, some local Jesuit priests purchased the building for use as a training college. They added a large wing, eventually calling the building Manresa Hall. When the building was converted into a hotel in 1968, the elements “Manresa” and “Castle” were taken from the two previous owners to create its current name.

The property has been lovingly renovated and restored over time.

Management / TripAdvisor Each of the castle’s owners have put a lot of effort into making sure the features are modern without compromising the classic Victorian elegance.

This is a quiet, restorative place to stay for a weekend, but the property is used for so much more.

haley0122 / TripAdvisor Weddings on the property are beautiful—there’s even a bridal suite with plenty of space.

Of course, many say this place is haunted… and in fact, it was featured on an episode of Ghost Adventures on the Travel Channel.

Deanna C / TripAdvisor Guests and hotel employees alike have reported some strange sightings and sounds. To their credit, the ghosts do not appear to be malicious.

Manresa Castle is a great place to stay for history buffs.

Management / TripAdvisor If you prefer creaky wooden floors to metal elevators and vintage Victorian details to contemporary amenities, this is the perfect place for you.

When you’re ready for relaxation, you can book a stay at Manresa Castle on the website.

Management / TripAdvisor

Charles was a prominent member of the early Port Townsend business community, and he was eventually elected as the city’s first mayor.

This allowed him to build the largest private residence ever built in Port Townsend (complete with 30 rooms). Locals referred to it as the Eisenbeis Castle.

TJ151 / TripAdvisor

In 1927, some local Jesuit priests purchased the building for use as a training college. They added a large wing, eventually calling the building Manresa Hall. When the building was converted into a hotel in 1968, the elements “Manresa” and “Castle” were taken from the two previous owners to create its current name.

Each of the castle’s owners have put a lot of effort into making sure the features are modern without compromising the classic Victorian elegance.

haley0122 / TripAdvisor

Weddings on the property are beautiful—there’s even a bridal suite with plenty of space.

Deanna C / TripAdvisor

Guests and hotel employees alike have reported some strange sightings and sounds. To their credit, the ghosts do not appear to be malicious.

If you prefer creaky wooden floors to metal elevators and vintage Victorian details to contemporary amenities, this is the perfect place for you.

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Address: Manresa Castle Hotel, 651 Cleveland St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA