Bought an annual pass for Biltmore. Cost with tax $105., and glad I did. This allows entry to the property which includes trails, a 10% discount on food/purchases, admission to the house, wine tasting, and priority booking for concerts and the like.  It is a 45 mile trek from home base but after 3 nights dealing with psychotic patients it is a welcome refuge.
Pictures of what lies along the trails.
Belgian Horses
Sheep
Canadian Geese
Watch these geese they own the road and are very protective parents..
Streams and Fields..
While sad to go one leaves refreshed and uplifted..
For adults Antler Hill has much to offer. Let’s take a gander..
This is George and Edith’s recreated mountain cabin. It is currently a retail shop. Bicycles are available to rent and enjoy during your visit. This area is perfect for cycling as well as hiking.
A new addition since last visit. This is a temporary art work. Fun to walk through.
Biltmore Winery is in the Antler Hill area. Tastings are done every 20 minutes. Upon arrival register for a time. This can be done through a UPC code delivered to a cell phone. Tastings are included with Biltmore admission.
The winery was the creation of the grandson of George and Edith Vanderbilt. He left a New York banking career to return to Biltmore creating the renowned resort it is. The winery was one of his first of many additions and changes to the estate.
Along this route a history of Biltmore Winery is given.
The Wine Library. Here wines from the beginning of production are stored.
Tasting Room
The Wine Shop -Besides wine this area also sells spices, sauces, and a variety of kitchen items.
And while visiting take in the stained glass George Vanderbilt saved from his family’s 5th Avenue, New York City home.
Finally, uncork a bottle and enjoy some appetizers while listening to music or chatting among the flowers..
What a great way to end a visit to the Biltmore Estate..
This area of Biltmore has much to offer for all ages. For kids the Farm is where children can take in live stock and touch chicks. There also is a playground in this area.
Playground..
Mr. Vanderbilt was a farmer extraordinaire. His farming techniques were recognized nationally. There are movies in this area discussing this portion of the estate. It is a fascinating depiction of those who lived and worked on the farm.
Farm equipement
The shop in the barn has interesting items for purchase and the setting is one not to miss.
There are demonstrations in the barn. Children would love these.
And not to forget this is the Biltmore Flower Festival.
A visit to the gardens begins with sculpture. Mr. Vanderbilt was an avid traveler making over 60 visits across the pond acquiring these beautiful pieces for his home and garden.
Then down the stairs to the path leading to the gardens, or take a tram to…
The Walled Garden
Hello… Time for a little dog love. Biltmore allows leashed dogs on the property and many are seen on the grounds.
Visit the train show in the Conservatory
Take in the flowers,
and some greenery..
Stop by the store under the Conservatory for some interesting finds..
Walk to the pond, down the stairs..
to the path,
and arrive at the pond and waterfall.
Time for lunch with a return visit to the colors of the Azalea Path,
Visited Biltmore twice before, but when I heard of a Flower Festival a third visit beckoned. The festival runs through May 27, 2021, and if you are able to visit, go, but, check online first for tickets as they go fast.
Historically..
Biltmore was the home of George and Edith Vanderbilt. This 250 room castle was built in French Renaissance style in the 1890’s through the design efforts of Richard Morris Hunt and the landscape/garden creator Frederick Law Olmstead. There is much on the web regarding this estate. Read as much as possible prior to visit to ensure a rewarding visit. Arrive early, stay late, and if time allows visit Asheville or nearby Black Mountain..
That said, more pictures..
A waterfall of flowers greets visitors upon entrance.
The Loggia where musicians play daily during this event adding to the ambience.
The Dining Room
Guests
Billiard Room
Simple Elegance
Living Room Entertainment
Edith Vanderbilt
Library Flowers
Guest Bedroom Flowers
Edith and George’s Bedrooms
Lovely
And let’s end with some outside beauty with a view from the veranda..
Biltmore is considered by most as America’s only castle. With building construction beginning in 1889 and lasting over 6 years, 1000 workers crafted this majestic residence. Two architects worked in concert to produce this amazing property. Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame created the outside landscaping and gardens, and Richard Morris Hunt, the architect of the home. While assessed on tax rolls at $64 million it is priceless and pricey to visit but well worth the fee as the visit is captivating and one you will never forget.
After obtaining tickets to the venue there is a long drive to the home through forested lands. It is amazing to think in 1896 this was desolate farmland recreated as a forest on Olmsted’s recommendation.
The forest continues as you walk to the mansion from the parking lot. Then the awesome structure appears at the end of a grassy courtyard. Walking closer to the entry large stone lions greet you as doors open into a foyer of plants with a domed ceiling.
From the spectacular entry walk to the dining room where George and Edith Vanderbilt dined with their guests on 6 to 10 course meals.
In the library is George’s immense collection of books. He also entertained great authors and poets in this room discussing their works. If only walls could talk.
Then there is the room housing priceless tapestries..
And take a glimpse at George’s bedroom..
Next visit the exquisite gardens, greenhouses, and forest. Stroll the many many trails. You will understand why George chose this spot to build.
Tours are timed for entry with limited numbers of visitors allowed making for a comfortable visit. Audio tours are an additional cost but well worth the price. Purchase your tickets on line a week prior to visit for savings. There are interesting back stage tours given by docents. Read the bios to see what fits your desires and interest. It takes at least 90 minutes to view the 39 rooms and spaces for tour in the home. There are docents in each room to answer questions. Christmas is the best time of year for visit as Biltmore glows with festive decor.
Bathrooms are not available in the house so to ensure a comfortable visit take care of those needs prior to visit. Walk past the entry doors of the home to a complex which has food, retail, and bathroom facilities. Here there is much to buy, eat, and sample. Wine tasting is included in the price of admission, however the larger tasting is available off-site at the Antler Hill Village and Winery. Here there is also a small animal farm for children, interesting trains, and a museum explaining more of the Vanderbilt’s life.
To make every aspect of your tour a valuable experience pick up a copy of “Your Visit to Biltmore,” which is available through the Asheville on line services. Also, investigate the extensive Biltmore web site for all specifics and needs. I highly recommend reading information on the Vanderbilt family prior to visit. This will make your visit even more valuable.
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