The Biltmore Estate - Asheville, NC

In 1888, George Vanderbilt, on a visit with his mother, had fallen in love with western North Carolina. Asheville, North Carolina had become a health retreat for the high society of the Northeast. Many would venture down to the rugged terrain of Asheville to rest and reflect on the pressures of everyday life. George decided to purchase 125,000 acres and build a home where he could showcase his extensive art collection. The Vanderbilts had a long tradition of building very lavish homes, so George hired Richard Morris Hunt, a high society architect to design Biltmore House. He wanted this house to be a technological wonder, so he included many cutting edge inventions to complete the house. Biltmore House had central heating, electricity, running hot and cold water upstairs, fire alarm, cold - storage refrigeration, an elevator, electric call system for the servants, and a swimming pool with under water lights. The guests would marvel at all the conveniences. The estate was completed and opened on Christmas Eve in 1895. In the 1930’s the Vanderbilt family opened the estate to the public to revitalize the Asheville, North Carolina economy. In 1979 the family remodeled the dairy barn into a winery. Biltmore wine has won several awards and is a well respected winery. Today, the estate employs over 650 people in order to maintain the property. Biltmore House has become a favorite tourist spot in North Carolina.

Today, a visit to Biltmore is more than just a tour of the house; it has become a haven. The Inn at Biltmore is an indulgence well worth the price. A four star hotel, the Inn is tasteful in it’s details, with flawless service, fine dining restaurants, beautiful mountain views, very inviting pool, afternoon tea service, and concierges who know the best way to enjoy the full experience. You can’t help but feel the pampering from the moment you walk in. If you really want to splurge, try the Cottage at the Biltmore Estates. A 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with butler and chef. This is a once in a lifetime pleasure , and will make the trip to Biltmore a priceless extravagance.

While Biltmore is famous for it’s Christmas celebration and beautiful decorations, anytime of the year can be a special treat. In the spring the gardens break out with smells and colors , and in the fall it’s a very special time to visit as the drive to and from Biltmore will erupt with fall color. With 8,000 acres to explore and play in, more than one visit will almost certainly be necessary, especially since the Biltmore experience changes with every season.

The Biltmore is open year round, but on busy days they have a timed entry policy ( where you are given a specific time to view the house). During these days you are free to explore the other areas while waiting for your time to tour the main house. It is best to arrive before 1pm during these busy days, otherwise the times may fill up.

As you can see a visit to Biltmore holds everything you will need for a grand getaway. With shopping, dining, the winery, and activities that include horse back riding and fishing, this is truly an inclusive trip. Be sure you bring comfortable clothes to explore in. Please take your time when you visit, because between the house, gardens, and winery, Biltmore has so much to offer. It’s like coming home, at least to the home we all wish we had!

Robin Gardner, Editor At Large




North Carolina Tourist Guide - The Biltmore Estate - Asheville, NC