Saturday, November 15
Meet at 9:30 AM for a 10AM departure
Caravan Starting Location: Wawa’s Gas Station, 54 Cypress Edge Drive, St. Johns, FL and Race Track Rd.
Castle Otttis (yes, three ‘t’s) was built between 1984 and 1988. Based on Irish stone castles from 1,000 years ago. It was never intended to be a residence or a business. The aim was to create a work of art, one that would invoke the spirit of an old Irish abbey or Christian church. The result is this majestic landmark along the St. Augustine shoreline. Open to the public only by a private event or special tour such as ours.
Mathias Ickes, son of Rusty Ickes who was one of the two builders, will lead us on a one-hour tour and regale us with its unique origin and construction story. Afterwards, you’ll be free to roam the grounds before we caravan a few blocks up the road to Beaches Restaurant at 254 Vilano Rd., for a leisurely lunch while overlooking the Matanzas River.
THIS IS A MUST see and something you will be telling your friends about for years! Bring your phone or camera for some great pics! If it’s cool, also a jacket; it gets windy on the upper parapet. Although there is no charge for the tour, Contributions of appreciation are appreciated. A collection jar is located just inside the doorway.
SPECIAL NOTE: The castle has NO restroom facilities and is not ADA. There are stairs and steps. But even if you stay on the ground floor it is a site to behold!
Also, NO food, drinks, gum, pets, or children under 9 years old. The parking area is not paved so if you have a low-rider you may want to park outside the gate.
Also check out other Sports events in St Johns, Arts events in St Johns, Food & Drink events in St Johns.
