enjoy the biltmore house
It's interesting:"I am quite sure that Linda will want to improve Paul a little because that's what wives do. Above all else I hope she'll teach him to entertain in this style and continue this fine hosting tradition."
Touted as the largest private home in the United States, as well as one of the few real castles in America, the Biltmore House is a perfect family destination. Its location in beautiful Asheville, NC offers visitors some amazing sights that would normally require a trip to Europe, as well as a wonderful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Use this article as your guide to plan a family vacation, romantic getaway or just a stop on your North Carolina mountain vacation.
Things You'll Need
- Guidebook to Biltmore House
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Admission tickets
Instructions
1
Explore Biltmore House. Built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 1800’-s, this massive, 250-room castle can take several days to enjoy. You can sign up for one of the many guided tours, or take a self-guided look around the home. Inside you will find artwork by Renoir, priceless antique furniture, a bowling alley, an indoor swimming pool, 16th-century tapestries and even an entire the room devoted to playing of chess. Start in the towering entryway and work your way up the massive spiral staircase.
2
Stroll through the gardens. Designed by famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, the Biltmore Estate gardens offer acres of beautiful flowers, formal gardens and managed woodlands. The All-American Rose Garden features more than 250 varieties of roses, and is a great place to take a long walk. Be sure to check out the greenhouse or book a guided tour of the gardens or surrounding forest.
3
Visit the winery. It was once the home of the Biltmore Estate Dairy, and visitors now have the opportunity to tour a working winery. Offering guided tours, wine tastings, culinary demonstrations and educational classes, the winery is a great place to gain a little knowledge and purchase some good wine. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase wine accessories or souvenirs.
4
Take in some outdoor activities. Covering more than 8,000 acres, the estate offers many outdoor activities to keep you busy. Choose from carriage rides, biking, walking trails, horseback rides or even a river-rafting trip. You can even learn the art of fly-fishing or drive a Land Rover in rough terrain. Most activities are offered year-'round, but you may want to check the weather for possible cancellations.
5
Visit River Bend Farm. This historical farm offers self-guided tours and an authentic glimpse into life on the estate during the late 19th century. There's antique farm equipment, daily craft demonstrations, an assortment of farm animals and vegetable gardens. There's even an old-fashioned ice cream shop and mercantile store that offer sweet treats and souvenirs.
Tips &- Warnings
Although shuttle service is provided, a car is helpful when visiting several estate attractions.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will do plenty of walking during your visit.
The guided tours of the house provide access into areas that are not open to the general public.
The winery will ship your purchases so that you don't have to carry them in your car or on an airplane.
The candy shop, located in the old stables, offers an amazing variety of sweets.
Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
For guided tours, remember: "George Vanderbilt's luggage was lost on the Titanic." Trust me, it will make sense.
Avoid visiting on weekends and holidays if you don't like crowds.
Be forewarned that there are lots of stairs in the main house.
Remember, you are in the mountains. Keep an eye open for snakes and other hazards when hiking or walking through the grounds.
Tags: guided tours, Biltmore Estate, enjoy biltmore, enjoy biltmore house, George Vanderbilt, great placeSource: www.ehow.com
