Welcome to
The Viking's Cottages and Condominiums

Come experience the timeless magic of historic Nye Beach in Newport, Oregon. Enjoy an Ocean sunset. Walk the broad, sandy beaches. Energize your spirit... Rekindle romance... Located in the heart of Newport, the Vikings Cottages and Condominiums are built on oceanfront cliffside property with beach access. Most accomodations have breathtaking sea views. (Directions) Choose from many options. No "typical" motel rooms. The Cottages One of the country's oldest motels. In continuous operation since the 1920's, the cottages' nostalgic charm revives a bygone era. Quaint and small by today's standards, the cottages are the most affordable oceanfront rooms in Newport. Pets welcome. (541) 265-2477 or 1-800-480-2477 The Condos Modern and privately owned, all the condos are oceanfront with private, west-side patios or balconies offering spectacular views and heated, outdoor pool and spa. Sorry, no pets. (541) 265-2477 or 1-800-480-2477 Just For Two Newly completed. Five charming studio units, built in the tradition of old Nye Beach. Just-For-Two units are spacious and private. All have mini-kitchens. Smoke free. Sorry, no pets. (541) 265-2477 or 1-800-480-2477 THE VIKINGS'S COTTAGES Ocean front Decks Studios Family Units Stairs to the beach Fully equipped kitchens Private bath with shower only Pets Welcome The Viking's Cottages were built in 1925. These cabins preserve the atmosphere of historic Nye Beach. The Viking's has long been a well-maintained favorite with those seeking a nostalgic retreat. The motel is on the oceanfront with beach access. Though rustic in style, each cabin has cable, color TV, and its own private bathroom. Most have fully-equipped kitchens. Unless otherwise noted, the cottages have NO PHONES. The Viking's is one of the oldest, continuously operating motels in the country. The many beach cottages of this era have disappeared, replaced by hotels and condominiums. The Vikings Cottages are among the few remaining on the breath-taking Oregon Coast. If you want to experience this bygone era, the Cottages are for you. STUDIO AND ONE BEDROOM COTTAGES: #8 Studio with queen bed, refrigerator, microwave, full ocean view. A romantic, old fashioned charmer. $85.00 See more. (541) 265-2477 or 1-800-480-2477 #9 One bedroom with living room and kitchen. Upstairs. Double bed. Bath with shower only. Slightly obstructed ocean view. $85.00 See more. #11 One bedroom. Similar to #9. Stand-alone cottage. No ocean view. $80.00 #10 Known as the Crow's Nest and well worth the climb. The view is stunning. A favorite for many reasons. Designed for two people only. Intimate and romantic. Full kitchen. $95.00 See more. #14 One bedroom, newly remodeled. Queen bed in bedroom. Living room has sleeper sofa. Full kitchen. Full bath. No ocean view. $95.00 See more. TWO-BEDROOM COTTAGES: #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7. All oceanfront with great views. Each has two separate bedrooms, each with a double bed. Full kitchen. Bath with shower only. Outside deck with picnic table. $120.00 See more. #5B Two bedroom oceanfront. One double bed, one set bunk beds, living room with sleeper sofa. Full kitchen. Bath with shower only. Outstanding views. Phone. NON-SMOKING cottage. $120. See more. #12 Large, comfortable two bedroom unit. Upstairs. One bedroom has two double beds; one bedroom has a queen bed, large living room, full kitchen, and full bath. No ocean view. $95.00 See more. Rates and Room Descriptions The Cottages The Condos New For 2 Area Attractions Nye Beach Newport & Vacinity Newport Photos Forinash Gallery Newport Net Newport Events Calendar Maps Weather Tide Tables Mileage HOW TO FIND US The Vikings Cottages and Condominiums are located in Historic Nye Beach on the Oregon Coast. From Highway 101 in Newport, go west on Olive St. to Coast Street. (Olive is a continuation of Hwy 20.) Turn north (right) on Coast Street. At the end of Coast Street, look for the Viking ship at 729 NW Coast. Need more help? Coming from out of town? See Directions and Maps FOR RESERVATIONS PHONE: (541) 265-2477 or 1-800-480-2477 Top of page COTTAGES CONDOS NEW! FOR 2 HOME SPECIALS MAPS WEATHER EMAIL Come see how we have rebuilt a little of historic Nye Beach! Honeymoon? Anniversary? Or maybe you just need the fresh sea air. Imagine falling asleep with the sound of surf. Think "Just for Two"–just for you! Newly completed. Five studio units, built in the traditional style of old Nye Beach. Just-for-Two units are spacious and private. Some have ocean views. Some have fireplaces. Some have in-room jacuzzi tubs–for two, of course. All have mini-kitchens. 1-A is wheelchair accessible. SMOKE FREE. Sorry, NO PETS. See Floor Plans - Ground Level or Floor Plans - Top Floor. JUST-FOR-TWO TOP FLOOR 2-A. Large studio with vaulted ceilings. Jacuzzi tub for two plus a separate shower. Queen bed. Microwave, mini refrigerator. Not ocean view, but catches a glimpse of the sea. $125. Pictures 2-B. Romantic getaway for two. Large studio with vaulted ceiling. Queen bed, microwave, mini refrigerator. Jacuzzi tub for two, plus a separate shower. Gas fireplace. Breathtaking ocean views. $150. Pictures JUST-FOR-TWO GROUND FLOOR 1-A. Large studio with queen bed, microwave, mini refrigerator. Full bath with shower. This unit is fully ADA compliant. No view. $75. Pictures 1-B. Studio with queen bed. Microwave, mini refrigerator. Full bath with shower. Not ocean view, but does peek at the sea. $75. Pictures 1-C. Studio with queen bed. Gas fireplace. Microwave and mini refrigerator. Full bath with shower. Nice ocean view. $95. Pictures Note: Accomodations are subject to local lodging tax. Other Options Nostaslgic. The Viking's Cottages - a Nye Beach tradition. Modern. Another Viking's tradition - The Viking's Condominiums Top of page COTTAGES CONDOS NEW! FOR 2 HOME SPECIALS MAPS QUESTIONS? WEATHER EMAIL 541-265-2477 * 800-480-2477 THE VIKING'S CONDOS All Ocean front Outdoor heated pool & spa Studios One and Two Bedroom Suites Cable/color TV Fully furnished kitchens Panoramic ocean views Bathroom with tub & shower Stairway to beach Private patios or balconies Fireplaces in executive suites Sorry - No pets allowed Pacific Crest Condominiums (just south of the Viking's Cottages) is a modern, three-story complex with 36 units. Each unit is ocean front with a large, private patio or balcony overlooking the sea and beach below. Each has a full kitchen. Each unit is privately owned and decorated to the taste of the individual owner. The following TYPES of room are available on a nightly or weekly rental basis. STUDIO CONDOS Pictures For 1 OR 2 people: One large room. Queen bed. Ocean view. Kitchen. Dining area. $105* Studio for 2-4 people: Same as above but with either 2 double beds or a queen bed plus a hide-a-bed sofa. $115* ONE BEDROOM SUITES (2 – 4 People) Pictures Queen bed in master bedroom. Hide-a-bed in living room. Two full bathrooms. Two televisions. Full kitchen. $145* TWO BEDROOM SUITE (4 – 6 People) Pictures Corner unit with panoramic views west and north. See the Yaquina Head lighthouse from here. King bed in oceanfront bedroom. Queen bed in second bedroom. Hide-a-bed in living room. One large bath. Two TV's. $185* EXECUTIVE SUITES (2 – 8 People) Deluxe accommodations elegantly appointed for those who seek the very best. Each has a fireplace and many amenities. Each suite is different, but you will find no better views anywhere in Newport. $175 - $250*. Pacific Crest 311-312 Pictures Nye Sands 308 Pictures *Nightly rates are subject to local lodging tax. Phones are available in most condos. If you need phone service, please tell us when you make your reservation. The swimming pool and outdoor spa are only for guests of Pacific Crest Condominiums. We regret that guests of "the Cottages" and of Nye Sands condos may not use these facilities. Other Options New. Just completed in 2003, five modern units built in traditional Nye Beach style. The Viking's "Just for Two". Nostaslgic. The Viking's Cottages. a Nye Beach tradition. COTTAGES CONDOS NEW! FOR 2 HOME SPECIALS MAPS QUESTIONS? WEATHER EMAIL Our rates vary according to demand. In summer we operate at full rates every day. In winter, you may get a generous discount. Weekday rates are sometimes lower still. Weekly and monthly rentals may be possible in the off season. Certain events (Seafood and Wine Festival, for example), holidays, and long weekends generally find us at full-price rates. To find out about promotions and seasonal rates, give us a call. Also remember, a Vikings gift certificate makes a wonderful present for a birthday, wedding, anniversary or other occasion. Or as a reward for a deserving employee. Or just because .... WEATHER Live Weather Cam - Yaquina Bay Jetty, Newport Live Weather Cam - Newport Bridge Hatfield Marine Science Center National Weather Service Historical Weather Data QUESTIONS 729 NW Coast Street Newport, Oregon 97365 541-265-2477 * 800-480-2477 The Viking's Frequent Questions VIKING'S HOME VIKING'S & PICTURES COTTAGES CONDOS JUST FOR 2 Newport Attractions Nye Beach Attractions Frequent Questions SPECIALS MAPS WEATHER Send Email How soon do I need to reserve my vacation rental? What do I need to make a reservation? When I make a reservation, do you charge my credit card? What is your cancellation policy? When can I check in? What if we're late? What is check-out time? Can I have late check out? How do I find the Viking's? How far from the beach are you? Do we need to bring our own cooking utensils? Where can we get groceries and supplies? What's to do in Newport? What's a good place to eat? Can I park my RV or boat? Can't we have 6 people in a room for 4? We don't mind. Can I bring my pets? Why can't I just leave my dog in the car for the night? Is this a non-smoking facility? Is there a phone in my room? Answers to Frequent Questions: How soon do I need to reserve my vacation rental? Avoid disappointment. Call when you know for certain your dates and who's coming. The sooner the better. Especially for occasions such as Fourth of July or for favorites such as the Crow's Nest. (A year ahead is not too soon for Seafood and Wine Festival weekend—always sold out well in advance.) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What do I need to make a reservation? It's Easy. Have your exact dates. Know who's coming. How many adults and children? Is your pet coming with you? Have a valid credit card. If you prefer to mail us a deposit and if time permits, we can usually hold your reservation for a few days until the deposit check arrives. Ask us. Ready? Call 541-265-2477 or 800-480-2477. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- When I make a reservation, do you charge my credit card? In most cases, we do not charge your card when you make your reservation. Never without telling you. However, we may pre-authorize charges. Caution: If you make a reservation with an invalid card, is not a valid reservation and is likely to be lost. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What is your cancellation policy? For most dates, we require 48 hours cancellation notice. Otherwise you are charged for the first night. Some holidays and special occasions require 7 days cancellation notice. We will tell you what the policy is for your dates when you make your reservation. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- When can I check in? Except in the summer, check-in time is 2 PM. In the summer it is 3 PM. When you make your reservation, we will tell you the check in time. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What if we're late? When you guarantee your reservation with a credit card or pre-payment, you have bought the room. We will not give it to anyone else, no matter how late you are. However our office closes at 10 PM (11 PM in the summer). If you will be arriving after office hours, on your arrival day, simply phone us before closing time and we will tell you how to get your room key. Then be sure to come to the office the next morning to sign in. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What is check-out time? Check-out time is 11 AM. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I have late check out? In general guests are expected to vacate the rooms on time and if not may be charged for an additional day. Under special circumstances a late check out may be possible. Before asking, keep in mind that when we are busy, our housekeeping staff needs enough time to get reserved rooms ready as promised. And in the off season our housekeeping staff is smaller. Please be considerate of other guests—avoid making this request. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How do I find the Viking's? The Viking's Cottages and Condominiums are located in Historic Nye Beach on the Oregon Coast. From Highway 101 in Newport, go west on Olive St. to Coast Street. (Olive is a continuation of Hwy 20.) Turn north (right) on Coast Street. At the end of Coast Street, look for the Viking ship at 729 NW Coast. Need more help? Coming from out of town? See Directions and Maps. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How far from the beach are you? The Viking's is at the beach. We are located on beachfront property so every unit has beach access. No crossing the highway or other public area. Our fine views result from our cliff-top location. Well constructed stairways take you down to the sand and sea. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Do we need to bring our own cooking utensils? Every unit that has a kitchen also has a complete outfit of basic cooking utensils, dishes, drinking glasses, and tableware. But if you need specialized items, such as an over-sized pot or roaster, by all means, bring them with you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Where can we get groceries and supplies? JC Thriftway Market Southwest corner Coast Hwy & Olive (Hwy 20) Fred Meyer Southeast corner North Coast Hwy & 22nd St Rite Aid Drugs Northeast corner North Coast Hwy & 22nd St. Newport Liquor Store 2270 North Coast Hwy. Safeway Northeast corner North Coast Hwy & 22nd St. Wal-Mart Northwest corner North Coast Hwy & 25th St. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What's to do in Newport? The Oregon coastline is uniquely beautiful and sightseeing is probably the activity most widely enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. Don't forget to bring your camera! Boating, fishing, crabbing, whale watching and beach combing are some favorite vacation pastimes here. Sandcastles or kites anyone? From the Viking's it's an easy walk to the the Nye Beach "turn around" where you will find unique art galleries, shopping and cafes. Newport's Bay front has still more galleries, shopping, and dining plus popular visitor attractions such as Undersea Gardens, Wax Museum and Ripley's Believe It or Not. Charter fishing boats and marine tour boats dock on the bayfront. Not to mention those entertaining sealions performing daily in Yaquina bay. Just over the Yaquina Bay Bridge you will find Hatfield Marine Science Center with its free visitor exhibits and the famed Oregon Coast Aquarium. Still more shopping and galleries in Aquarium Village. See Nye Beach Attractions and Newport and Vicinity Attractions for more ideas. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What's a good place to eat? It is hard to go wrong dining out in Newport. In Nye Beach, the Sandbar and Grill and the Chowder Bowl are favorites for seafood. Tables of Content Restaurant at the Sylvia Beach Hotel offers outstanding food, ocean views, and entertaining family style dining. (Don't forget to phone ahead.) Also on the Ocean front, Beach Side Grill. Other Nye Beach favorites are Cafe Stephanie and Village Market and Deli. On the Bay Front, try Port Dock One (watch the Sealions), Sharks (great food, informal dining), or the Saffron Salmon (upscale dining). The Whale's Tale is great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Locals also like Moby Dick's and Newport Steak and Seafood on the main highway. Feel like Mexican? Try Puerto Escondido or Muchos Gracias. Oriental? Choose from Kum-Yons or Lee's Wok (Chinese), Sada's (Japanese), or Thai Palace. These are only few of many great places to eat in Newport. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I park my RV or boat? The Viking's does not have sufficient parking to accommodate RVs, boats or other oversized vehicles and trailers. Numerous facilities in the area can accommodate them. Here are a few suggestions: Port of Newport Marine & RV Park 2301 SE Marine Dr. (near Hatfield Marine Science Center and the Oregon Coast Aquarium) (541) 867-3321 Sawyers Landing Marina and RV Park 4 miles west on Yaquina Bay Drive (541) 265-3907 Agate Beach RV & Trailer Park 6138 N Coast Hwy (541) 265-7670" Newport Marine 4354 S. Coast Hwy South Beach (1 mile south of Yaquina Bay Bridge) (541) 867-3704 The Storage Place 4822 S. Coast Hwy in South Beach (541) 867-3208 Waldport Storage Co. in Waldport (541) 563-5777 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can't we put 6 people in a room for 4? We don't mind. The Viking's sets the maximum number of guests for each unit based on years of experience and local safety and zoning laws. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I bring my pets? The Viking's Cottages welcomes your pets. Just be sure to let us know. Never leave an animal alone in your vacation rental. The Viking's Condominiums do not accept pets. The Just for Two building is a smoke- and pet-free zone. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why can't I just leave my dog in the car for the night? Although your pet is well-behaved, some pets bark or howl when left alone in a vehicle. Other pet-lover guests are often distressed at seeing a pet locked in a vehicle. The Pacific Crest Condominium homeowner association does not allow pets on the property. It is against the law to leave a pet confined in a vehicle for extended periods. Is this a non-smoking facility? Smoking is permitted in all but one of the Cottages. Some of the Condos permit smoking. Others do not. It depends on the owner's stipulation. The Just for Two building is a pet- and smoke free zone. Hate the smell? We have oxidation equipment that effectively cleanses odors. For most people, this is adequate, given the abundance of fresh sea air on the oceanfront. Ask for this service before you arrive. If smoking/non-smoking is an important issue for you, please tell us when you make your reservation. Is there a phone in my room? "No phones" mean a peaceful retreat. Most of the Condos do have phones. Please request a phone when you make your reservation if needed. No phones in Cottages or Just for Two units. 729 NW Coast Street Newport, Oregon 97365 541-265-2477 * 800-480-2477 Nye Beach Attractions VIKING'S HOME VIKING'S & PICTURES COTTAGES CONDOS JUST FOR 2 Newport Attractions Nye Beach Attractions Frequent Questions SPECIALS MAPS WEATHER Send Email Newport Performing Arts Center Newport Visual Arts Center Historic Nye Beach Restaurants April's at Nye Beach 749 Northwest 3rd Street - Phone:(541) 265-6855 Chowder Bowl at Nye Beach 728 NW Beach Drive - Phone: (541) 265-7477 Don Petrie's Italian Food Company 613 NW 3rd Street - (541) 574-9111 Quimby's Restaurant 740 West Olive Street - (541) 265-9919 Cafe Stephanie 411 NW Coast Street - (541) 265-8082 Nye Beach Hotel Cafe 219 Cliff Street - (541) 265-3334 Sandbar & Grill 722 NW Beach Drive - (541) 265-6032 Tables of Content - Sylvia Beach Hotel 267 N.W. Cliff St. Call for dinner reservations (541) 265-5428 Tea & Tomes 716 NW Beach Drive - (541) 265-2867 Art Galleries & Gifts Top of page COTTAGES CONDOS NEW! FOR 2 HOME SPECIALS MAPS WEATHER Questions? EMAIL 541-265-2477 * 800-480-2477 The Viking's Home Page See the Viking's Home Page with pictures. Historic Nye Beach Attractions VIKING'S HOME VIKING'S & PICTURES COTTAGES CONDOS JUST FOR 2 Newport Attractions Nye Beach Attractions Frequent Questions SPECIALS MAPS WEATHER Send Email Newport Events Calendar Newport Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Hatfield Marine Science Center Oregon Coast Aquarium Aquarium Village Newport's South Beach District Oregon Coast Lighthouses Newport is unique with its two lighthouses. Yaquina Head Lightouse Yaquina Bay Lighthouse Boating, Whale Watching & Charter Fishing Marine Discovery Newport Marina Newport Tradewinds Sea Gull Charters Fresh Fish Markets Fish Peddler's Market 617 SW Bay Blvd Lighthouse Fish Market & Deli Oregon Oyster Farm 6878 Yaquina Bay Rd. Restaurants Canyon Way Bookstore & Restaurant Kum-Yon's Lee's Wok Newport Steak & Seafood Sharks Seafood Bar & Steamer Whale's Tail Rogue Ales Public House Newport's Historic Bay Front Mariners Square Wax Museum Believe It or Not Undersea Gardens Gifts Newport Recreation Center Golf Courses Agate Beach Salishan Sandpines Chinook Winds Casino Natural Wonders Coastal Field Trip Diary Yaquina Head Natural Area The Tide Pools of Yaquina Head Cape Perpetua Sea Lion Caves Newport Library 35 NW Nye St. Lincoln County Historical Society Museum 545 SW 9th St Newport Performing Arts Center 777 W. Olive Street Newport Visual Art Center 839 NW Beach Dr. Street The Viking's Tour Page We invite you to take a virtual vacation right now. Join us for a stroll around the Viking's. We have a lot of pictures to show you and they have to load first. The load meter goes away when they finish. Why not get a cup of coffee or cold drink while you wait... Is the load meter gone yet? When it is, click the Viking's Tour pass, sit back, and leave the navigating to us. The Viking's Story These pages are best viewed by allowing the images to load first. The Viking's Story The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand Vikings in America Settlements found on the east coast of North America show that the Vikings, sea-faring voyagers from northern Europe, arrived on this continent at least as early as 1000 AD, five-hundred years ahead of Columbus. Gokstad Style Ship Descendents of the adventurous Vikings found their way to the Pacific coast where today many work in the fishing industry, perpetuating the nautical talents of their forbears. Was it one of them who named the Viking's? That whimsical carved figure of the Viking in his ship moored by the office door suggests as much. The Viking's was only one of several Nordic inspired resorts on the Oregon coast—the Norselander, for example–offering beach cabins, similar to those we now call "classic." Today few remain. BACK NEXT Before the Viking's The cottages date back to the 1920's. Little is known of the Viking's previous owners. But we do know the motel was not always called "the Viking's." Legend has it that the original builders—Hattie and Sam Penney—named it for their hometown Albany, then called the "Hub City of Oregon." Later the motel was known simply as "the Hub." Hub Tower 1943 Watching for Enemy Submarines on the Oregon Coast Hattie Penny continued to run the motel alone after her husband's death. They say she cut wood, cleaned rooms and did the maintenance herself until well into the years of World War II. The Crow's Nest tower, tiered like a wedding cake, was once said to be the highest structure in Newport. On top was an observation platform, long since removed, either lost to a ruthless Pacific storm or taken down for fear it would be. Yes, storms on the Oregon coast can be formidable. It isn't hard to imagine creaking timbers and breaking glass in gale-force winds. The rest of the tower—three stories high—has endured however, with minor modification and much maintenance, down to the present day. BACK NEXT The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand Many Vacation Options The Viking's Lobby The Viking's Today When you arrive at the Viking's on a Friday afternoon, you are likely to be greeted by a cheerful and caring person named Becky, the Viking's Office Manager. Perhaps it was her sweet voice on the phone confirming your reservation. Becky has been at the Viking's since 1991 and knows the accommodations and the day-to-day operation better than anyone. She keeps the Viking's ship on course. Becky is but one of a dedicated crew working to make your stay a pleasure. Sometime during your visit, you may meet Debbie, the Housekeeping Supervisor. Debbie, a guardian of good housekeeping at the Viking's for more than ten years, keeps the Viking's ship sailing smooth. Today's crew is a visible part of the Viking's story, but the roots are deep in history. NEXT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand Guardians of the Past The Viking's present owners, Brendan and Bonnie Carmody, have been preserving this bit of history for more than twenty years. Thanks to their determination and appreciation for the historic, these traditional cabins continue to survive the ravages of time, not to mention the juggernaut of high-rise development that leveled most of their contemporaries. In a never ending battle with driving wind and rain, salt air and dampness, the Carmodys have preserved the Viking's Cottages for yet another generation of adventurous vacationers who love the Oregon coast and cherish the nostalgic charm of these quaint cabins. Built during the days of Prohibition, the cottages have been a coastal get away for eight decades. They survived the great depression of the thirties, a world war in the forties, four decades of cold war, numerous other economic and political vacillations, the unrelenting assault of a marine climate and the merciless storms of Oregon's central coast. BACK The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand The Carmodys Bonnie and Brendan came to Newport from Nevada on vacation. They loved the green of Oregon and they loved the Oregon coast. In order to stay here, they sold everything they owned, gave up long-established careers in education, and bought the old Viking's motel. The year was 1983. The Carmody Family Though they didn't know it yet, it had fallen to them to save this old motel from the developer's wrecking machines. On the day the property closed escrow, they were served papers demanding they move the cottages because Cottage 8 violated a property line shared with the neighboring motel. Cottage 8 Over the Line That motel was one of two oceanfront motels—the Bonnie View and the Norselander—both scheduled for demolition. It turned out the builder had been negotiating to buy the Viking's as well when the Carmodys bought the property. Ultimately the Carmodys prevailed by the "right of adverse possession." The Viking's had been standing where it was without interference for so long that it had acquired rights to the land under it. The Carmody family moved into the house where the office is now. For more than five years, they ran the eleven-unit motel literally 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Historic Viking's Office With no prior experience, they had a lot to learn about the hospitality business. They cleaned rooms. They did laundry. They learned the art of motel maintenance. Brendan eased into the role of gracious host. Bonnie discovered a gift for interior decorating. And the Viking's thrived. Eventually the Carmody's acquired the nearby street-front market, a vintage structure like the other cottages, and remodeled it to make the Viking's units 12 and 14. Loyal guests returned season after season for nostalgic escape to a simpler life. Grateful to find the Viking's still in business—a well-maintained and attractive reminder of past times. Cottages 12 and 14 Converted Grocery Store In the Carmody's early days with the Viking's, it was mostly word of mouth that filled the cottages in summertime. Oregon's tempestuous weather and rugged roads rendered them nearly deserted in the winter months. But even then, a small persistent clientele of storm watchers made their way each season to the Viking's. BACK NEXT The Viking's Cottages The Viking's cottages shimmer like an aging film star who retains a dusting of glamour and mystery. Cottage 1, for example, was believed to be haunted and ghost aficionados requested it months in advance. All the Viking's cottages remain true favorites with the reflective and the imaginative. For holidays, each cottage has a following who make Fourth of July or Thanksgiving at the Viking's a family tradition. Ordinary citizens and celebrities alike stop in, drawn by the Viking's reputation for nostalgic charm and seclusion. "No phones" is a cottage tradition. One unit in particular culled exceptional glamour. The Crow's Nest, cottage 10, is a small cozy hideaway high above the other units. It is forever popular with those who need time to be alone for thought and reflection. For decades, writers have found inspiration in its lofty ocean views. For others it is a popular honeymoon and anniversary retreat. The guest journal you find in your room was Bonnie's idea. Thoughts and feelings from decades of the Viking's visitors have been written in them and shared with other guests. Don't forget to add yours! Guest Journals at the Viking's Condominiums After the Pacific Crest Condominiums were built on ocean-front property adjacent to the Viking's cottages, owners who wanted to defray the cost of their vacation homes enlisted the Viking's as rental agent. Then guests of the Viking's could choose between traditional and modern accommodations—the Viking's Cottages and Condominiums. The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand As Time Goes By Time waits for none. And in 2003, two of the old cabins had to go. The battle with time was lost. Cottages 1 and 2 were replaced, not with a high-rise, but with five units built in the style of old Nye Beach. The exterior of the new two-story building fits well with the older structures. Five studios, each meant just for two. Decorated by Bonnie, the interiors preserve the spirit of the past, though they are larger and have modern amenities such as microwaves—two even have Jacuzzi tubs. Here, a new generation will come for their honeymoons and anniversaries. A tradition in the making. And who knows? Maybe, as with the Crow's Nest, another generation of writers will favor their inviting privacy and comfort and find inspiration in their nostalgic ambiance. Time will tell. BACK NEXT The Viking's Art A Tough Mariner. On arrival, every visitor is greeted by the carved Viking ship with the original Viking astern. Time was not kind to the Viking. Weather wore away his paint. Storms roughened the wood. Wind deposited sand and dirt, filling in and obscuring carved detail. One of his blue marble eyes was gone. The new millennium brought plans to raze two of the cottages and rebuild. Time to either retire or restore the old Viking, if possible. Restoration was itself a work of art performed by Sea Gulch Wood Carving, in Seal Rock, home of the original carver. Beautifully restored and refinished with his new blue eyes, this tough mariner is an eye-catching landmark at the Viking's office door. A favorite of photographers. Go ahead, climb aboard. Have your picture taken with the Viking. Glass Mosaics. Though the Viking's office is decorated with wood carvings and pictures, the visitor's eye is drawn first to a display of glass mosaic artwork. Vases, candleholders and bowls, twinkling with fragments of colored glass—each object finely detailed with depictions of fish, flowers or fanciful patterns. These are Bonnie Carmody's creations. Bonnie, also a skilled jewelry crafter, has been making them for more than ten years. You can find her work displayed in various galleries and on the Internet. Is Brendan also an artist? He says be prefers to leave the artistic endeavors to Bonnie—reserving his creativity for golf! He's been practicing the art of golf for thirty-five years. His favorite local spot is Salishan. Stained Glass. Many rooms at the Viking's have some artwork. Most visible and striking are the stained glass windows in the Crow's Nest. If you are lucky enough to stay there, you will see how the morning light filters through in colors that paint the little room. You can see them from the Cottage parking lot (the Crow's nest tower is directly behind the Viking's Office). These charming pieces are the work of Bonnie Carmody and Becky, our Office Manager, whose association with Bonnie fueled her interest in stained glass art. Look for other touches of stained-glass art around the Cottages. Stairway to the Sand. What you would never guess on a calm summer day is the havoc wrought by storm-driven breakers upon previous iterations of the beach stairs. I once counted 98 of them, but they've been rebuilt since them. They rise from the beach like Jack's magical beanstalk, as articulated as the spine of a prehistoric reptile. Rest-point landings ease the climb. But every step is a view point, the whole a work of functional art. The cottage stairs were built by the Carmody's son, Jeff. BACK HOME The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand The Viking's Today Vikings in America Before the Viking's Guardians of the Past The Carmodys The Viking's Cottages Condominiums As Time Goes By Art at the Viking's A Tough Mariner Glass Mosaics Stained Glass Stairway to the Sand