Newport
The Breakers
Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Join us as we venture on a journey to the dazzling shores of Newport, Rhode Island, where we recently discovered the opulent charm of The Breakers. A haven frozen in time, this mansion is not just a destination but a portal to the Gilded Age's extravagance and grandeur. Grab your metaphorical time-traveling hats, and let's dive into a day filled with awe, wonder, and a touch of whimsy!
The moment you lay eyes on The Breakers, prepare to be transported to an era of lavish living and high society. The mansion stands proudly against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, its ornate façade and sprawling lawns promising a journey back to the late 19th century. The salty sea breeze mixes with the scent of history, creating an intoxicating blend that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Before we step through those grand doors, let's take a stroll down memory lane. The Breakers, completed in 1895, was the brainchild of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a man with a vision as vast as the ocean itself.
Imagine a time when ballrooms echoed with laughter, and society's crème de la crème danced the night away beneath glittering chandeliers. This mansion was not just a home; it was a statement—a testament to the prosperity of the Vanderbilt family during the Gilded Age.
Slide to see full view of "Then vs Now"
Then picture from:The Preservation Society of Newport County
As we approached The Breakers, the first thing that struck us was the sheer scale of the estate. The mansion looms large, a testament to the Vanderbilt family's commitment to leaving an indelible mark on Newport's landscape. The perfectly manicured gardens stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting visitors to wander and get lost in the beauty that surrounds them.
The Grand Entrance
Walking through the front doors felt like stepping onto the set of a period drama. The grand entrance hall, adorned with marble and gold accents, greeted us with open arms. It was as if the very walls whispered tales of glittering soirées and distinguished guests who once graced these hallowed halls. The attention to detail in every nook and cranny was nothing short of jaw-dropping, leaving us in constant awe.
The Architectural Marvel
One cannot help but marvel at the architectural brilliance that went into creating The Breakers. The mansion seamlessly blends Italian Renaissance and Gothic styles, a testament to the eclectic tastes of the Gilded Age elite. From the intricate carvings on the exterior to the hand-painted ceilings within, every inch of The Breakers oozes sophistication and artistry.
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
The Music Room
Step into the Music Room, where echoes of bygone melodies linger in the air. A symphony of opulence unfolds, with intricate woodwork and gilded accents framing the grand piano at the room's center. Crystal chandeliers hang like musical notes, casting a soft glow upon the room's rich tapestries. One can almost envision the Vanderbilt family hosting intimate concerts, the strains of classical music filling this chamber of refined elegance
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
The Billiards Room
As you enter The Breakers' Billiards Room, a sense of camaraderie and leisure envelopes you. Dark wood paneling sets the tone, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The billiards table, adorned with intricate carvings, takes center stage beneath a stained glass ceiling that bathes the room in a subtle, colorful glow. Here, one can almost hear the clinking of billiard balls and the laughter of guests engaged in friendly competition, a testament to the timeless allure of recreation in the lap of luxury.
The Dining Room
Prepare to be transported to a banquet of extravagance in The Breakers' Dining Room. A grandeur unfolds as you behold the colossal table adorned with fine china, silverware, and crystal stemware. Gilded walls and a ceiling mural depicting a feast in progress create an ambiance of lavish indulgence. The room whispers tales of lavish banquets, where the Vanderbilt family entertained dignitaries and socialites, creating a legacy etched in the very fabric of the room's ornate surroundings.
The Library
Enter The Breakers' Library, a sanctuary of intellect and refinement. Dark mahogany bookshelves stretch to the ceiling, cradling volumes that have withstood the test of time. Leather-bound tomes beckon, inviting one to lose themselves in the written word amidst the soft glow of brass lamps. The air is steeped in the scent of aged leather and history, and you can almost feel the presence of the Vanderbilt family, engrossed in the pursuit of knowledge within the hallowed walls of this literary haven.
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
The Bedrooms
The Breakers' Bedrooms are sanctuaries of tranquility and grace. Each room is a tapestry of exquisite design, from intricately carved bed frames to delicate draperies that dance with the ocean breeze. Sunlight filters through large windows, casting a gentle glow upon Victorian-era furnishings. It's a glimpse into the private retreats of the Vanderbilt family, where dreams and aspirations were nurtured amid an ambiance of quiet luxury.
few more bedroom pics
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
Secret passages like this one are located throughout the Estate
The Kitchen
In The Breakers' Kitchen, the heartbeat of the mansion comes to life. A bustling hub of activity, this space marries functionality with refinement. Copper pots gleam, and the aroma of culinary delights wafts through the air. The servants' quarters, a harmonious blend of efficiency and comfort, reflect the dedication that went into sustaining the Vanderbilt family's lavish lifestyle. It's here that the alchemy of sustenance unfolded, ensuring that every meal was a culinary masterpiece worthy of the grandeur that surrounded it.
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
Butler's Pantry
Exploring the Grounds
After immersing ourselves in the opulence of the interior, we ventured into the sprawling gardens. The carefully curated landscape provides a tranquil escape, complete with fountains, hidden alcoves, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. It's the perfect place to wander hand in hand, sharing a quiet moment while soaking in the beauty that surrounds you.
Our day at The Breakers was more than a visit; it was a step back in time, an exploration of an era marked by excess and exuberance. The mansion, with its storied history and architectural magnificence, left an indelible mark on our hearts. It's a place where the past comes to life, and each room tells a tale of a bygone era.
What A Trip!
We couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a captivating slice of history. The echoes of laughter, the whispers of a bygone era – it's all still there, waiting to be discovered by those who dare to take a step through time. So, dear reader, if you find yourself in Newport, make sure to carve out a day to wander through the halls of The Breakers. It's not just a mansion; it's a portal to a world where elegance and extravagance reigned supreme.
Until next time, safe travels! ✈️🌍
