Sequim, Washington - Bandy's Troll Haven

Bandy is the last name of the owner who built the houses and structures around his Troll Haven. He is also responsible for all of the carved fence posts and so forth.

Mr. Bandy used to live in California, where he owned a successful machine shop. He invented a door hinge that is used in most modern commercial airplanes and sold them to Boeing (among others). During his frequent visits to Boeing in Seattle, he became enamored with the countryside and discovered the land that he later purchased near Sequim. He built his home and the other structures, mistakingly thinking that they would be appreciated by everyone - he had a great interest in [Tolkien's] "Middle Earth" legends.

But some neighbors did not appreciate his originality, nor the traffic it generated in their quiet community. To appease them, he built the community a beautiful two-storied fire station, modeled after a Moorish castle. That cooled everyone down except the original people who had spearheaded the complaint forum. In spite of court findings that his creations complied with all state and county ordinances, they continued to harass him.

Upon discovering the property across the road from these people was available, he bought it and built the house called Neptune's Keep. It is quite beautiful in its own right. His "nasty neighbors" finally backed off after they lost their view of the bay.

The Haven is well worth a short drive away from Hwy 101 at Gardiner's Bay. Look around closely, there are hidden "creatures" lurking all around the gardens. His original house is now up for sale for a substantial price. It would be perfect for a B&B as it was designed by Bandy as a place to entertain guests. [Jerry, 08/31/2008]

Easy to find off of Hwy 101. I had looked forward to visiting this site and the wife and I rode our motorcycle there. The Troll Haven parking lot is blocked off and NO TRESPASSING signs are present all over the area. We parked on the road and took photos of the Great Carvings of Trolls that you can see from the road. The home is a very interesting building and someone took great effort in building this site. I only wish the new owners were more interested in sharing this place with everyone else. Doing it all over again I probably would not waste my time going to visit Troll Haven since you really cannot get up close and enjoy the marvelous carvings. [David Loflin, 09/11/2007]

I lived in Sequim Washington for nine months. I am now in California and had many opportunities to visit the "Troll Haven." I was able to tour the Bandy's personal home grounds. His son runs most things around there and we were warmly welcomed by him. It has a very fun spirit. The Neptune's keep an amazing house. It is still owned by him but is rented out to some amazing people that we know. Just remember it may be an attraction, but is still people's home where they live. [Lyndon, 10/21/2005]

We were lucky enough to have a friend who rented the castle for a weekend for his Mother's 80th birthday party, so we were able to tour not only the grounds, but the inside of the castle as well! As the massive front door, replete with etched glass dragons and other mystical spirits, swings closed behind you, you are instantly transported back in time. The castle is composed of different time periods, from Victorian to Medieval.

A massive crystal and gold chandelier hangs far above inside the rotunda, which has a circular staircase curving underneath 7 intricate stained glass windows. Five heavily carved Gothic chairs covered in with red velvet sit in front of a long breakfast bar, which divides the kitchen area from the living room. A stairway off the living room leads downwards to the dungeon, which also contains bedrooms! Furnishings all over the castle are rich and heavily carved. Upstairs is bright and airy, each room tastefully done and reminds one of a classic hotel. Large balconies afford visitors sweeping views of water and mountains.

Downstairs, step back into Medieval times as the stone walls of the dungeon wind around in a labyrinth style, passing by alcoves set into the walls which house crossed swords, glass etchings of mystical origins and other interesting things. Scattered around the dungeon are various instruments of torture. Stone gargoyles adorn walls and massive 6-8 inch thick English oak doors mounted with heavy black iron hinges. Stalagmites hang from the hallway ceilings as you wind your way from one room to the next.

While being classic in dungeon decor, it is neither dark nor cold. While there are no windows to the outside, everything is well lit, and there is modern heating and plumbing throughout the castle. Rental of the castle is spendy, but for a special occasion that guests will never forget, it is well worth it! [Vicki, 06/12/2005]

My wife and I visited Troll Haven recently and found it a refreshing diversion! We met a nice young man who welcomed us to park and tour the grounds from the road, explaining that this is for all to enjoy, but please respect the privacy. Apparently it was built by Mr. Bandy as a way to express himself and put a smile on all whom visit. The buffalo, orchards and perfectly manicured yards are certainly a treat! [Scott & Mary, 06/13/2003]