Just a short hour drive from Greenville, SC, lies the largest privately-owned home in the United States: The Biltmore House. This iconic 19th century mansion draws 1.4 million visitors annually because it looks like a fairytale castle, right in little Asheville, NC. Exploring the Biltmore House makes the perfect day trip for individuals, friends, couples, and/or families because there are a number of activities available, too. Explore the unique history, architectural brilliance, and natural beauty of the Biltmore House today, in order to plan your dream vacation for tomorrow. 

Unique History

Stepping onto the Biltmore Estate is like stepping back into time. George Vanderbilt commissioned the house in 1889, and after 6 years, it was completed in 1895 by builder Richard Morris Hunt. He designed the 250-room mansion in the Châteauesque style, inspired by French architecture. George had it all, except for someone to share it with. That’s when George met and fell in love with Edith Vanderbilt, and they quickly wed. When their first child was 13 years old, George sadly passed away from an unexpected surgery, and the house was passed on to the next generation. To this day, the house is being maintained and cared for by the Vanderbilt family. 

Architectural Brilliance

The Biltmore Estate looks like it is straight out of Downton Abbey, with its towering windows and arches. Incredibly, the Biltmore Estate has 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, three kitchens, and a two story library. The Biltmore House was ahead of its time in that it included an electric Otis elevator, heating system, and fire alarms. Individuals taking tours of the house, whether self-guided or personal, will not be disappointed with the decor, including, but not limited to: fireplaces, antique furniture, and interior courtyards. It truly is breathtaking, and you have to see it to believe it. 

Natural Beauty

The Biltmore property includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds, surrounded comfortably by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can stroll, hike, or bike the trails. If you can, plan your visit based on the season! While wintertime is perfect for appreciating magnificent, towering Christmas trees, spring is perfect for smelling bright, blooming flowers in the gardens. Then, head over to Antler Hill Village & Winery, Farmyard, and Pisgah Playground for even more truly splendid adventures. 

A Timeless Treasure

Visiting the Biltmore House is a journey through history, architecture, and nature that is not easily forgotten. And, with all of the activities available, like touring, hiking, shopping, dining, and wine tasting, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Vanderbilt's lavish home; see for yourself why it is such a timeless treasure!

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