From its hilltop perch Saint Clements Castle & Marina offers sweeping views of the Connecticut River, north as it winds past Portland on the far shore and south to a lazy bend where it rolls past historic homes in East Hampton.
It feels almost inadequate to call the vista breathtaking.
Built in the late 1890s as the summer home of a wealthy New York industrialist, the 92-acre Portland property changed hands a couple of times in the 20th Century, fell into disrepair, and was eventually rehabilitated by its current owner, the Saint Clement Castle Foundation, a 501-C3 nonprofit.
Today the property operates as a premier wedding and event venue, while the foundation supports several local charities, including programs for the homeless and local children, as well as Hospice.
Standing inside the facility’s two large ballrooms, the Waterford and Prince Edward, it’s easy to see why someone decided to open the castle to public gatherings. The Waterford has majestic river views, Prince Edward has lush gardens. Both have rolling green lawns, garden statuaries, courtyards and vine covered arbors outside their windows and wide doors.
During its renovations in the 1990s the stone castle, which includes a large tower, was restored to its 19th century glory. Its rooms are filled with antique paintings and furnishings. Even the original books in the library remain.
“All the original elements of the castle are still there,” says Peter Callan, CEO and owner of St. Clements Inc. The company is just completing a major addition to the property, a new event space adjacent to the charming marina.
Saint Clements hosts a wide variety of events, about 300 each year. The main estate has about 12,000 square feet of event space The Waterford and Prince Edward ballrooms each provide separate, private party spaces.
The new River’s Edge at Saint Clements Marina is a 10,000 square-foot building with approximately 4,000 square feet of new event space.
“Our venue is exceptional and truly unique as we offer three different event spaces that suit a variety of needs and styles: from different guest capacities to distinct aesthetics with lush lawns and gardens to mile long river views,” says Pam Marshall, director of sales for Saint Clements.
“We take pride in recognizing the importance of celebrating all of life’s most special milestones and important events, from weddings and bar and bat mitzvahs to meetings and awards dinners, we make entertaining simple and effortless, adds Peter. “Saint Clements is a crown jewel in Connecticut, not just for what we are but how we, as a team, provide services. Every guest walks away with an amazing experience.”
Saint Clements Castle & Marina
1931 Portland-Cobalt Road, Portland
860-342-0593
Saintclementscastle.com
