Why to visit the Biltmore Estate during the Holidays
It wasn't a tradition we intended to make, but it is quickly becoming one of my favorite mother-daughter traditions. For the past few years we have found ourselves inAsheville, North Carolina during the month of December, and the number one thing on our bucket list: Biltmore Estate.
Year after year, we return to this American castle with amazement and wonder. There is something exquisitely magical about this enchanting estate. I think it starts off with gingerbread-like entrance gate that shines bright like the North Star Then there's the miles of windy drive you have to traverse to sneak a peek at the grandeur estate. The scenery is spectacular; wide open fields, pines that tickle the sky, trickling streams and wildflowers are the first to welcome you to the Biltmore Estate. After lingering minutes you finally see it: the tip tops of the towers and peaks that mimic the Blue Ridge Mountains behind it. There in all her glory is the stunning Biltmore Estate.
I've been to the Biltmore at least a dozen times, in all different seasons, and I tell you I have yet to get bored with this beautiful place. Though I love the sweet tulips of spring and the vibrant colors bursting forth in fall, winter has to be my favorite. Two lions stand front and center to great you adorned with beautiful wreaths and gigantic red bows. As you enter the billowing doors, you can't help but be transported to a time gone by; a time where things were slower, simpler, less technology and more thought. A time where someone wrote hand written letters and the news came daily in the form of paper.
The entire house is adorned with Christmas decorations everywhere you look, from fresh garland to perfectly wrapped presents, it is the picture perfect Christmas. With over 50 immaculately decorated trees it may be hard to pick your favorite however what is definitely meant to be the most memorable is the 35 ft. Frasier Fir that stands tall and mighty in the dinning room for all to see. It's a spectacular display of holiday merriment that will leave you breathless at its glory.
Want to spend a perfectly blissful afternoon at the Biltmore? Here is my perfect day-trip itinerary for Biltmore Estate at Christmas:
1. Conservatory and outside areas
Arrive to the Estate early and spend the morning walking around the gardens, conservatory, and outside stable area. While the gardens are barren during the winter, the fresh air and mild Carolian winter days are always pleasant. There are paths and greenery to walk around as well as the beautiful conservatory with the most beautiful winter flowers.
2. Christmas tea at the Biltmore Inn
One of our favorite traditions is having a delightful Christmas tea at the Biltmore Inn. Just a short drive on the property will bring you the Biltmore Inn. Inside the entire hotel is decked to the nines in holiday merriment and a crackling fire and gigantic tree greet guests. Make your reservations in advance, as they always fill up!
Bonus: They offer gluten free options for high tea.
3. Visit the inside of the House
You'll have to choose to do the house tour during daylight or candlelight. Both are beautiful for different reasons. I find that the daylight tour tends to be a bit less crowded personally. Either way, you won't be disappointed by the splendor of the home. Take your time and take it all in.
What else is there to do at the Biltmore during Christmas, might you ask? Here are my top (5) suggestions on how to have the perfect Biltmore Christmas experience:
1. Take the Candlelight Christmas tour of the House. For more information about this magical event,
.
2. Take a Candlelight Christmas Tour of the Winery. To book your tour,
3. Take a carriage ride of the grounds.
for more information.
4. Do some Christmas shopping in the village shops
5. Have dinner at the Stable Cafe for a wonderful experience.
for more information on the dining options at Biltmore.
I hope that you get to enjoy the Biltmore as much as I do over the years. It's an experience that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
