There’s always something a little magical about stumbling across a unique historical landmark in Northern California, especially if you previously had no awareness of it. Situated atop a ridge overlooking Belvedere, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge, the Old St. Hilary’s Chapel is the perfect example of a hidden historical treasure that’s worth seeking out. Considered one of the last remaining churches built in the Carpenter Gothic style, it makes for a picture-perfect destination to enjoy the view and learn a bit of local history.
Home to a historic chapel and sweeping views that will take your breath away, a visit to Old Saint Hilary's Preserve is a must when you find yourself in Tiburon.
The preserve consists of 122 acres and offers visitors some of the most awe-inspiring views in Marin. You can access the site from either the north or the south. From Highway 101 in Mill Valley, take the exit for Tiburon Boulevard and drive east for 3.5-miles. Turn left onto Lyford Drive and right onto Vistazo West St. for south access, or continue to the end for north access.
The preserve is absolutely gorgeous with a landscape that consists of rolling grassland and a beautiful babbling creek. It looks like a scene ripped straight from a painting, especially with the Old St. Hilary's Chapel as the centerpiece.
The historic chapel was constructed in the Carpenter Gothic style and opened in 1888. At the time, it was a palace of worship for the local railroad workers and farmers. It's one of the last remaining chapels of its kind in the Golden State.
Services took place in the small white chapel for 66 years before moving to a larger parish facility. The structure soon fell to ruin after being deconsecrated in 1954, but locals acted swiftly to restore it to its former beauty. It was designated as a historic landmark in 1955 and has since become a popular venue for weddings and other ceremonies.
The chapel is marvelous in itself, but the surroundings just accentuate its beauty. The area doubles as a wildflower conservatory and it contains over 200 species of plants, including the rare Tiburon jewelflower. Keep an eye out for this unique, dark purple flower when visiting from mid-May through mid-June.
Exploring the Old Saint Hilary's Preserve is a great way to enjoy nature's abundant beauty and views of the Bay. The preserve is open year-round, and the chapel is open to the public from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays from April to October. See the Marin County Parks website for more information about the preserve, including rules to follow when visiting.
Have you been to this historic chapel in Tiburon? What’s a historical landmark in Northern California that you’ve accidentally stumbled upon? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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