Adventuring – A Timeless Victorian On Cape Cod by Kathryn Hills #RomanceGems

Highfield Hall and Gardens, Falmouth, Massachusetts, Jan. 2020

I get around. *chuckle* Ask anyone who knows me, and they’ll tell you I’m always crying, “Road trip!” Big cities, tiny towns, especially historic locations. One of my favorite things about being a writer is the inspiration I gather from the many places I explore. Is it Wanderlust, a popular term, meaning a strong longing for or impulse toward wandering? That’s exactly what it is. But I say, “adventuring.” And whether I’m alone, with friends, or with family, I LOVE adventuring! I reside in New England and hitting the road in my old Honda CRV is my favorite way to see this diverse and beautiful region. So, come along. First stop, Cape Cod, Massachusetts!

Nearby Woods Hole Harbor

Simply called “The Cape” by locals, the famous hook-shaped peninsula is home to quaint towns, stalwart lighthouses, great seafood, and quintessential New England views. (The Cape is 65 miles from Woods Hole to Provincetown, including Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape) We’re heading to Highfield Hall and Gardens in Falmouth, (Upper Cape) and the setting for my first book, Haunting Highland House.

Even in winter, Highfield Hall and Gardens is an enchanting and inspiring location. The mansion itself - a Queen Anne stick-style Victorian built in 1878 - so sparked my imagination it launched my debut novel and a book series. I discovered it by chance over a decade ago, yet one visit changed the course of my life.

Highfield Hall seen through the Stickwork sculpture
of artist Patrick Dougherty, Jan. 2020

Want some backstory? Once the summer home of wealthy Bostonians, the estate passed from owner to owner, serving as everything from a hotel to a school for theater students. Eventually, it fell to ruin and became the town’s derelict or haunted house. Right there. First clue why this place piqued my interest. A group of concerned citizens stepped in just before the historic mansion was set to be demolished and the property developed for housing. Today, the old house stands beautifully restored, transformed into a cultural center for the community, including a summer stock theater, gardens, walking trails, and conservation land. It’s a restoration success story. I’m a sucker for a happy ending!

Upper Cape beach in winter

During my first visit to Highfield in 2008, I couldn’t help but wonder… What would it be like to live in this place, now and during its heyday back in the late 1800’s? Wouldn’t it be amazing to experience both times? Maybe as the caretaker? If you’ve read my Time Traveler’s Journey Series, you know where my vivid imagination ran with this idea. The house I dubbed Highland House plays an active roll throughout my books. Learn more about how the real mansion became a central character by visiting my Author Notes.

Stickwork by artist Patrick Dougherty
Front lawn, Highfield Hall, Jan. 2020

Visit Highfield Hall and Gardens to find upcoming events, programs, and to explore additional history. You can plan your own adventure and fall in love with this timeless place.

See Falmouth’s Chamber of Commerce for ideas on visiting the Upper Cape any time of the year.




Thanks for reading! Until our next adventure,

~ Kathryn 

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