Visit Itinerary: Family Fun Guide to Biltmore Posted on June 1, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Amy Dangelico Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, is a family-friendly destination all year long! Every visit to our 8,000-acre retreat unveils new wonders and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling through our historic gardens or exploring the halls of Biltmore House, endless opportunities to create lifelong memories await. Make the most of your family vacation with our top recommendations for Biltmore family favorite activities that are sure to please your entire clan, from grandparents to grandchildren. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery from Helene is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, current hours of operation and activities offered, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page. Try all the ice cream treats, including this delicious Winkie Bar Sundae served in a waffle bowl 7. Savor Our Favorite Flavors Did you know that the vanilla ice cream served on the estate is based on a delicious original Biltmore Dairy recipe? With a visit to the Biltmore Dairy Bar® near Biltmore House and the Creamery in Antler Hill Village, you and your family can cool off while enjoying the same richly-flavored frozen treat savored by estate guests more than a century ago! Tip: Take your treats — like ice cream sundaes, smoked barbeque sandwiches, or even some Biltmore Wine for the grownups — to-go from the Creamery or other restaurants in Antler Hill Village and enjoy on the nearby Village Green where you can cut a rug to live music at the bandstand! Bring the whole family along on your next biking adventure at Biltmore 6. Have Fun Biking for All Ready to explore our wide-open spaces on two wheels? You’re welcome to bring your own bikes in tow or visit the Outdoor Adventure Center or Bike Barn in Antler Hill Village and choose from a selection of rentable mountain bikes for rugged trails or comfort cruisers for paved paths. Tandem rentals are also available so the younger members of the family can join the fun. Tip: Consider a guided bike ride or other outdoor activities for more exciting ways to explore our 8,000-acre estate! Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 – February 2, 2025 at Amherst. Dale Chihuly, Persian Ceiling, 2012, 25 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2012 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. 5. Experience An Artistic Escape Ignite your family’s imaginations as you explore the castle-like halls of America’s Largest Home® and the awe-inspiring art installations on view inside Amherst during Chihuly at Biltmore, ending February 2, 2025. Chihuly’s mesmerizing work is sure to captivate young minds and inspire a love for creativity! Tip: Chihuly at Biltmore is an awe-inspiring experience for families and guests of all ages. That said, due to the nature of the exhibition, all guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Meet our working farm animals at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village! 4. Family Fun at the Farmyard Bring your kids to meet our kids at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village! From learning about the working farm animals that are a part of our agricultural history at the Farmyard to handicrafts demonstrations and seasonal activities offered at The Barn nearby, your kiddos will have plenty to choose from for engaging and educational fun. Our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders) offers even more in-depth discovery of Biltmore’s farming legacy and how that connects to our modern field-to-table philosophy. Tip: Did you know that Biltmore Annual Passholders can bring their kids ages 16 and younger to enjoy Antler Hill Village for free year-round? If adventure is calling your name, check out our guided river activities! 3. All-Time Family Favorite: Exploring Our 8,000-acre Backyard! With 8,000-acres of Blue Ridge Mountain backyard, you’ll never run out of places to explore at Biltmore! Enjoy more than 22-miles of hiking trails along the French Broad River, through lush green forests, or in the open meadows of the estate. Whether you’re up for a Vanderbilt-era-inspired game of croquet, rafting on the French Broad River, or venturing out on guided nature experiences (or all three!), our Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village boasts an ever-changing variety of activities that are fun for the whole family. Tip: Activities offered may sell out or have specific dates and times offered, so we strongly recommend checking our current offerings online and making reservations in advance to ensure availability during your visit. Visit the Bike Barn or Outdoor Adventure Center for a detailed trail map and orientation to the trails. Explore Biltmore’s 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard! 2. Discover Even More of Biltmore Every day’s an invitation to vacation like a Vanderbilt at Biltmore! Embrace the vibrant blooms of spring, soak up the leisurely days of summer, marvel at the rich tapestry of fall’s changing leaves, and bask in the warm, twinkling glow of Christmas. Each season invites you to experience its own unique magic. Share must-see experiences, like Chihuly at Biltmore, with the whole family when booking our “best value” House, Exhibit & 2-Day Grounds ticket, which features free admission for kids (9 and under), discounted admission for youth (10-16), plus access to explore the estate gardens and grounds the next day for free! In addition to our top family-favorite activities, we invite you to explore all of our activities currently offered so you can make the most of your quick getaway, family vacation, or long holiday weekends to Biltmore! Make a splash at Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate 1. Make it a Family Getaway to Remember Truly get away by extending your Biltmore visit with an overnight stay at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, or our private historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate. Become a Biltmore Annual Passholder and enjoy year-round visits and exclusive member discounts on special events, dining, and more.
Summertime Fun: Just Like in the Vanderbilts’ Day Posted on May 24, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Heather Angel Whether it’s your first time visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, or you’re an Annual Passholder planning a return, summertime is the season for outdoor fun at Biltmore, and the choices are as plentiful today as they were back in the Vanderbilt days over a century ago. Here’s a look at a few of our favorite ways you can vacation like a Vanderbilt this summer by exploring our great outdoors at Biltmore. Cornelia with one of her St. Bernards on the Esplanade of Biltmore House, ca. 1903. A Grand Getaway for Summer Fun Cornelia Vanderbilt, the only child, born to George and Edith Vanderbilt, is the picture of relaxed elegance, enjoying the company of one of her St. Bernards on the Esplanade of Biltmore House. This is what her father, George Vanderbilt, intended when he chose the mountains of western North Carolina as the setting for his country estate in the late 1800s. He sought an antidote to the social pressures and hectic pace of New York City, and created a retreat where he, his family, and friends could relax and immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty during the summer. The Vanderbilts offered tennis, croquet, archery, fishing, horseback riding, golf, swimming, “automobiling,” and lawn bowling in the formal gardens and landscaped grounds surrounding Biltmore House. Guests in 1905 play croquet in the Italian Garden. Get Ready for Games The family welcomed hundreds of guests to Biltmore House through the years. And with all the amenities of a luxury resort, it’s no wonder they stayed for weeks at a time! The combination of the elegant French château, gently rolling hills, and mild weather captured the imagination. Spring and summer lured the hosts and their friends outdoors to play. A dazzling array of activities appealed to nearly every taste and whim, including croquet in the Italian Garden. Among the many outdoor activities offered for today’s guests, Croquet in Antler Hill Village just might be one of the most authentic Vanderbilt-era activities Biltmore has to offer! Cornelia and Edith Vanderbilt in Biltmore’s stables, c. 1917 Head Out on Horseback George Vanderbilt descended from a family famous for its love of racing and raising horses. Coaching and riding were always favorite recreational activities. Cornelia grew up riding horses, and for a time, she even had a donkey to ride. It’s tough to find a more exciting and beautiful way to see the estate than from the back of a horse. Today, you can also explore the estate’s scenic views on horseback through guided trail rides or with a leisurely carriage ride around the grounds. Edith and Cornelia fishing at the Lagoon. Reel Summer Fun Edith was known to be an avid fisherwoman. She often gave fishing parties at Biltmore, and daughter Cornelia fished right alongside her. Our archives note that the family enjoyed hikes into the forest and across estate ridges during the summertime. George Vanderbilt himself loved to get out in the woods and see the estate on foot. Today, we honor these memories by offering activities like fly fishing lessons on the Lagoon and making the estate grounds easily accessible for guests interested in leisurely strolls, bike rides, or hikes to explore the very same scenery George Vanderbilt and his family saw back in their day. You can also find a good spot on the Village Green to picnic, listen to live music, and hang out with friends and family. Cornelia Vanderbilt swimming in Front Lawn fountain. Make a Splash As a little girl, Cornelia splashed around in the front lawn fountain, and later as a young woman, entertained guests at the pool on the South Terrace. The pool is no longer on the South Terrace, but both The Inn and Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate have swimming pools surrounded by beautiful scenery that open for the summer to overnight guests. George Vanderbilt (seated) and friends crossing the French Broad River on a ferry, circa June 1896. Rolling on the River From the late 1800s through the 1970s, a ferry traveled back and forth across the French Broad River bringing passengers from the farming operations on the West Side of the estate to Biltmore’s main dairy facility, where the Winery is located today. The Vanderbilt family and their guests used the ferry when they ventured to the West Side and employees used it to haul lumber and farm products. Today, you can explore the scenic views of this gentle river that runs through the estate with river rafting and kayaking activities through our Outdoor Adventure Center. George Vanderbilt poses in a carriage in front of Biltmore House. Cruise Through Summer in Style As automobiles came into fashion, George Vanderbilt was enamored with this mode of transportation. His interest in cars must have rubbed off on Cornelia, for she tooled around the estate in a sporty convertible. One of the most unique offerings at Biltmore is the Land Rover Driving Experience. Guests are challenged to learn how to navigate a Land Rover through a rugged driving course. Pauline Dresser, Edith Vanderbilt’s sister, attending a picnic in Langrolay-sur-Rance, France, 1895. Pack a picnic Whether they stayed on Biltmore Estate or traveled to a nearby scenic spot, picnicking for the Vanderbilts and their guests was a much more extravagant outdoor activity that included dining with real china and glassware and sitting atop cushions beneath a tent or shade. Today’s guests are invited to head out and enjoy a more modest picnic on the estate grounds. Enjoy our great outdoors when you pack your own picnic (see policies) or set out with some grab-and-go items from one of our estate shops or restaurants to enjoy. Guided fishing is one of the many Vanderbilt-inspired activities available for you during your visit to Biltmore. Vacation like a Vanderbilt Summertime fun is just a hop, skip, and jump away! Plan your visit to join us this summer on George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain getaway, just as it was intended. For even more Vanderbilt-inspired fun, linger longer with summer days and overnight stays on our historic estate, or by joining our Passholder family.
Restoring the Past: The Smoking & Gun Rooms Posted on May 9, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux For upper echelons during the Gilded Age, few things were more important than networking and maintaining social standing. Smoking and Gun Rooms were essential for many affluent families. At Biltmore, these two rooms have been used in various ways over the last century, yet always centered around hospitality. In honor of National Preservation Month in May, we invite you to learn about the intricate layers of our preservation efforts to restore the Smoking and Gun Rooms of Biltmore House. An archival photo of the hallway from the 1940s displays embossed wallpaper resembling leather, dating back to 1911. A home well-loved Biltmore has been called home to many generations of Vanderbilts and Cecils throughout the years. And, just as we do in our own homes, we update, refresh, and alternate the use of space, the Smoking and Gun Rooms on the first floor of Biltmore House were no different. During George Vanderbilt’s time, gentlemen primarily utilized these rooms to socialize, relax, and gear up for outdoor activities including hunting and fishing. After George’s death, Edith and Cornelia downsized, and used these rooms as office and living quarters, which they remained through the Cecils’ stay. Always evolving and reflecting the tastes of the time and lifestyles of their inhabitants. A handwritten letter by George Vanderbilt in 1896 gives us a glimpse at the historic use of these rooms. History writes itself Through a combination of research, our own archival documents and photos, and those from repositories around the world, we can peel back the layers of time to bring Biltmore back to its roots. Among the treasures uncovered in our archives are a series of letters that offer a glimpse into the past. One letter, dated to the 1890s, finds George requesting retrieval of a box stored in a desk in the Smoking Room—these little nuggets of information provide us with invaluable clues to the room’s furnishings and use. “Dear Charles, With the enclosed key please open the desk in the smoking room. In the middle drawer is a box addressed to me at Biltmore about 14×7 inches + 2 inches deep… On the top of the desk are a lot of letters and some invitations. Please mail me these.” – George Vanderbilt on February 13, 1896 Herbert Noble in Biltmore’s Winter Garden c. 1930 The Butler’s Log Central to our research efforts is the Butler’s Log, meticulously maintained by Herbert Noble during the 1930s. This detailed account of the changes made within Biltmore House offers a treasure trove of information, from descriptions of room updates to insights into the removal and replacement of furnishings and décor that had been worn out, water damaged, or whatever the case may be. Often what he is moving out is the pieces of information that are most helpful. Herbert recorded, “Leaks at some time had ruined the original paper which was dark green. As the blue draperies were so very faded and worn, I had new ones made for it of dark red damask…” The wallpaper seen in this photo of Mrs. Vanderbilt matches a sample of wallpaper in storage, which assisted us in restoring the Smoking Room to its original state. We took that information alongside a picture of Edith which shows a striped wallpaper on the wall behind her and found the same green striped wallpaper in our storage. This sample has since been sent off to be reproduced by Atelier D’Offard in Tours, France, who specializes in hand-blocked wallpapers as produced in the 18th and 19th centuries.. The same company who produced wallpapers for the Louis XV Suite. Another entry states,”Mr. Cecil uses this room for a writing room. He had the woodwork cleaned & oiled last year…Mr. Cecil had the backs of the cabinets painted yellow which shows up the birds so much more besides improving the appearance of the room. The dark blue & red rug is from the Van Dyke room… As this room had no draperies I hung a pair of velvet draperies in here.“ A glimpse inside the Gun Room of Biltmore House as it undergoes preservation. Digging deeper for information While we had archival clues for the Smoking Room, the Gun Room required the team to start entirely from scratch. According to Lori Garst, Biltmore’s Curator of Collections, we had no archival drawings to use when planning the restoration of the Gun Room. Our research last summer focused on the function of late 19th and early 20th-century gun rooms. Based on the finishes in our gun room, we knew that the dirty work of cleaning the guns was done elsewhere. Rather, Biltmore’s gun room, like others, was more of a gathering place where the men went to pick up their equipment for the afternoon’s shoot or fishing outing. Pardon our Preservation: Restoration of these rooms will be visible to guests through completion. A mission of preservation For Lori and the team, every preservation project is a chance to uncover and revive history. “Restoration projects at Biltmore uncover our past. Stories related to the spaces are revealed, and the original design details are uncovered. In the Smoking and Gun Room, we have both. When complete, the rooms will be completely transformed.” We welcome you to see our ongoing preservation efforts of this National Historic Landmark for yourself during your next Biltmore visit.
In The Spotlight: Biltmore’s Vineyard Posted on May 1, 2024 at 1:00 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Believe it or not, Biltmore’s first vines were planted right next to America’s Largest Home around 1971. What started as a testing ground for hybrid varietals has flourished into a 50-acre vineyard on the West Side of the estate growing varietals such as Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Follow along as Vineyard Manager, Phil Oglesby shares a glimpse at our estate vineyards throughout the year. During the bud break stage of the vineyard lifecycle, the vines are extremely sensitive at this time and young shoots must be protected. Spring bud break: New growth begins “The first major event of spring in any vineyard is bud break,” said Phil Oglesby, Vineyard Manager, “and Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate is no different. Even though we’re already working with the vines, that first hint of a bud breaking open gives us a sense of urgency that the growing season is underway.” Once bud break occurs, typically around late March, the vineyard crew becomes even more vigilant because Western North Carolina is potentially under a frost warning until mid-May! “Protecting the tender, developing green shoots is a priority. We have several strategies we can deploy during a spring freeze to help mitigate damage,” Phil said. “There are wind turbines in the field to keep the air moving so the frost doesn’t settle on the fragile buds, and we can spray the vines with water so they’re encased in ice, which protects them from freezing temperatures, but grapes are still a field crop that is affected by the weather.” The flower bud (inflorescence) contains hundreds of flowers, but not all will turn into berries. In order to thrive, warmth and sunlight are crucial. Biltmore’s vineyard blooms As spring’s warmer weather returns, our Biltmore Estate vineyard sees substantial leaf growth in the young shoots fueled by the carbohydrates stored during the dormant winter months. Soon, the vines will bloom with tiny self-pollinating flowers, destined to become berries. Nature is the best protector during these critical times. We focus on creating an optimal habitat through sustainable practices. Biltmore’s vineyards are flush with bright green grape clusters during the summertime. Fruiting in time for NC Wine Month Each May serves as a time for celebration for Biltmore Wines! Not only is it the anniversary month for the opening of our Winery in 1985, but it’s also North Carolina Wine Month. Meanwhile, the danger of frost in the vineyard has passed, the days are getting longer and warmer, and fruit clusters have begun to form under the leaves. Known as “berries,” these hard green fruits don’t look much like mature grapes, but they continue to ripen. The summer months set the stage for the fall harvest. As the berries develop, also known as fruit set, our growers get their first look at the amount of crop the vineyard will yield and the amount of wine we will produce. The swelling of the grapes with water increases the sugar and tannin levels while reducing the acid levels, all the while accumulating color and flavors. Veraison signals the countdown to harvest In the beginning, all berries are green, but as they ripen, they transform into beautiful hues of red, purple, and golden through a process called veraison. Phil said, “By mid-July you should notice some color coming into the grapes—light gold for the Chardonnay and speckles of purple for the Cabernets.” This noticeable change in color marks a tipping point in the growth process where the plant begins focusing energy on ripening and sweetening the fruit. This change also signals to the teams that the countdown to harvest is underway! Biltmore’s grapes are harvested by hand every year! Gearing up for harvest season In every wine-growing region, harvest preparation is one of the busiest times of the year for vineyards and wineries. Phil and his crew work to prepare the equipment, including hand clippers and flat containers for carrying grape clusters without damaging the fruit. “Executive Winemaker Sharon Fenchak frequently visits the vineyard, especially as the fruit develops on the vine,” said Phil Oglesby, Vineyard Manager. “We work together to try predicting harvest yields and we keep a close watch for potential problems that can be minimized with our control. The vineyard team has a shared goal of providing the Winery with the best possible fruit we can produce.” The crafting of fine wines relies on cooperation and good communication between the teams. A close look at Biltmore Wines—especially during harvest—reveals the benefits of such a relationship. The ripeness of grapes and weather conditions determine the start of harvest. Sweetness, alcohol content, and acidity are all affected by time. Harvesting our finest fruit Once harvest begins, the crew will work from sunrise to late afternoon, carefully gathering the ripe fruit that will become the heart of our Biltmore Wines in the years to come. Chardonnay is one of the early-ripening grapes on Biltmore’s West Side Vineyard. With Mother Nature’s cooperation, Philip and his team will typically begin harvesting this varietal in late August. All grapes are hand-picked, with harvests averaging 130 tons annually, and transported to our winery and production facility located in Antler Hill Village where the winemaking process begins. Snow protects the vines against icy winter temperatures and aids their hibernation. Caring for the vines during wintertime Despite what you might think, the vineyard work continues during the winter months! Though the weather may have turned, the dormant vines still need care. Our teams remain hard at work, pruning and protecting the vines to keep them healthy and strong. While the vines rest, our winemakers continue to craft the recent harvest into wines worthy of a sip. Barrels are filled to the bung hole to compensate for natural evaporation (or for a taste test!), ensuring the quality of the wine inside. And then, like clockwork each year, winter gives way to early spring and the cycle begins again… Our viticulture program honors the Vanderbilt heritage to create new opportunities for the family’s estate in harmony with Biltmore’s mission of preservation. Sourcing the finest fruit for our wines You may have heard through the grapevine… In addition to our Biltmore Estate vineyard, we also work closely with partner growers in California and Washington who help supply fruit for our portfolio of wines, most of which are handcrafted at the estate. “Our partners are an important part of our wine program at Biltmore’s Winery,” says Executive Winemaker, Sharon Fenchak. “We spend a lot of time with growers from around the Monterey, Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino wine regions.” Sharon explains that the importance of these long-standing relationships with all our partner growers ensures that the quality of all our wines is as consistent as possible from vintage to vintage. For a true grape-to-glass experience, savor our Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina varietals, each featuring estate-grown grapes. Savor the fruits of our labor Join us at the Winery and Wine Bar on Biltmore Estate to discover new and favorite vintages of our award-winning wines and be sure to look for our varietals featuring estate-grown grapes, like our Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay North Carolina wines! Our wines are also available in estate shops, at retailers near you, online, and through our Vanderbilt Wine Club. No matter where you’re enjoying your Biltmore Wines, we invite you to raise a glass in honor of our grape growers, vineyards, and winemakers across the nation!
Discover Chihuly at Biltmore: A Peek Inside the Exhibition Posted on April 25, 2024 at 6:07 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Chihuly at Biltmore is a new exhibition featuring 33 different artworks, including pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of Chandeliers, Towers, Mille Fiori, and Neon by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Get ready to be transported to another world as you move through the breathtaking galleries of Amherst with a peek inside this must-see exhibition. Dale Chihuly, Icicle Chandeliers and Towers, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2015 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Explore artwork throughout seven galleries “This is the first time Biltmore has hosted a Chihuly exhibition since 2018 when his work was displayed primarily in the gardens,” said Travis Tatham, Director of Entertainment and Event Programming. By hosting the exhibition in Amherst at Deerpark®, you will have a chance to explore Chihuly’s work in a gallery setting. The location enabled our team to select works of art that are different from the last exhibit and highlight additional aspects of Chihuly’s remarkable career. It took three years of collaboration and planning to create a custom-designed space for this large-scale exhibition to be displayed throughout seven galleries. Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 – February 2, 2025 at Amherst, Dale Chihuly, Tabac Baskets, 2008 with Western trade blankets, Soft Cylinders (detail), 2008-14, and Peach Cylinders with Indian Blanket Drawings, 1995-2016, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024, © 1995 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Dale Chihuly, Sapphire Neon and Neodymium Reeds on Logs (detail), 2023, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Learn about the artist, Dale Chihuly “With Chihuly at Biltmore, you’ll experience a curated exhibition that showcases how inspiration, design, and technique come together in breathtaking objects and installations,” said Travis. As part of the exhibition, a comprehensive timeline offers details into Chihuly’s development of innovative techniques and inspired exhibitions throughout his career. “There is a beautiful variety of art on display made up of various colors, shapes, and compositions,” Travis said. “This is an ideal setting for you to not only view the installations, but learn about Dale Chihuly’s life, work, and his powerful influence on art, as well as Biltmore’s own connection to glass art.” Installations around the estate In addition to the awe-inspiring installations in Amherst, you have the opportunity to marvel at two large-scale installations presented on estate grounds: A Winter White and Glacier Blue Tower on the East Terrace in front of Biltmore House and a freestanding Torchlight Chandelier at the Entry Green in Antler Hill Village. While in the Village, be sure to admire Chihuly’s Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier in the Winery. Installed in 2023, it was created especially for Biltmore and is part of the estate’s permanent collection. Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 through February 2, 2025 at Amherst at Deerpark. Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, Asheville, North Carolina, 2024, © 2024 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. You don’t want to miss Chihuly at Biltmore While Dale Chihuly’s work is represented in museums and collections throughout the world, viewing it here at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, brings past and present full circle. “The estate has always been a destination for art and culture, from the glass art and other remarkable objects the Vanderbilts collected–including paintings by Claude Monet, John Singer Sargent, and James Whistler–to the beautiful gardens and grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect, and our award-winning wines handcrafted at Biltmore’s Winery,” Travis noted. “That’s why Biltmore is the perfect place to experience this extraordinary exhibition!” Just as George Vanderbilt loved sharing world-class artwork with his guests over a century ago, we look forward to sharing Chihuly at Biltmore with you! Featured image: A family discovers the iconic Persian Ceiling in the exhibition. Dale Chihuly, Persian Ceiling, 2012, 25 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2012 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved.
Wedding Bells for John and Cornelia Cecil Posted on April 19, 2024 at 8:00 am.Written by Karina Hux Biltmore has witnessed countless celebrations over the last 129 years, but perhaps none so grand as the wedding of George and Edith Vanderbilt’s only child, Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt, to the Honorable John Francis Amherst Cecil. April 29, 2024, marks the 100th anniversary of this monumental event. To celebrate, let’s take a look at John and Cornelia’s wedding by the numbers! Escorted by her mother Edith, Cornelia Vanderbilt follows her bridesmaids into All Souls Church. April 29, 1924 × Rachel Strong insisted on wearing a white organdy Lanvin gown with a full skirt, accented with a large white hat. × The bridesmaids wore green flowered crepe-de-chine dresses cut straight, accented by black and white hosiery and small white straw hats. × The flower girls wore white dresses with full skirts, ballet slippers, and butterfly necklaces gifted to them by Cornelia. × John Cecil’s groomsmen wore dark tuxedos with tails and could opt to wear spats. × Wedding bells are ringing Cornelia Vanderbilt had eight bridesmaids. Among them were her school friends from Miss Madeira’s, cousins, cousins-to-be, and her best friend, Rachel “Bunchy” Strong, as maid of honor. John Cecil had a matching eight ushers, including Hugh Tennant, his best man and superior officer at the British Embassy in Washington, DC. Several of his groomsmen were men he lived with upon arriving in the United States in 1923, a group known as the “British Bachelors.” Others included his cousin Robert Cecil, childhood friend Benjamin Bernard, and Cornelia’s cousin John Nicholas Brown. The wedding party also included two flower girls: Helen Raoul and Peggy Morgan, both daughters of family friends in Asheville. Guests wait to enter All Souls Church. April 29, 1924 Quantifying the guest list The Cecil wedding was a high-profile event celebrating the union of not only two individuals, but two countries. The guest list reflected the prominence of both the Vanderbilt and Cecil families. It included aristocracy, diplomats, politicians, and socialites of both the United States and United Kingdom—all mingling with the estate’s residents and employees, for whom a section of All Souls Church was reserved. In total, 500 people were invited to the ceremony held at All Souls Church, while another 2,500 received a separate invitation to attend just the reception at Biltmore. While many invitations were respectfully declined, the Cecil’s welcomed more than 1,000 attendees! Biltmore House stands ready for wedding guests. April 29, 1924 Renovations for accommodations Although many guests stayed at Grove Park Inn, Biltmore Country Club, and Kenilworth Inn, those closest to Cornelia were invited to stay in Biltmore House. A group of 43 family members and friends occupied the 35 bedrooms—including the Oak Sitting Room, where members of the bridal party stayed together. Because the wedding marked the most guests ever accommodated in the house at one time, preparations began as early as March 15, 1924—before the Cecils formally announced their engagement. Some rooms were renovated, while others were extensively cleaned before being furnished. That the house was ready for a record number of guests in just six weeks is a testament to the skill of Biltmore’s domestic staff. Pollyann Foster greets John and Cornelia Cecil following their wedding. April 29, 1924 Cupid’s innocent greeting Following the wedding ceremony, 44 children of Biltmore Estate employees lined up outside All Souls Church. The newlyweds recessed from the church down an aisle formed by the children, each of whom held spring blossoms that they crossed to form an arch. At the end of this receiving line, they were greeted by Pollyann Foster, one of the estate’s youngest residents, dressed as Cupid. Crossed flags, representing the bride and groom’s nationalities, greeted guests in the Main Hall. April 29, 1924 Two become one As guests entered for the reception, they were greeted by two flags hanging in the Entrance Hall: an American Flag and a British Union Jack. During the wedding breakfast served at the reception, both God Save the King and The Star-Spangled Banner were played. The couple turned toward their respective flags as the national anthem of each country rang out, signifying the union of two countries through their marriage. Keepsake cake with monogram details. “CVC” for Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil and “JFAC” for John Francis Amherst Cecil. Gifts of generosity Guests of John and Cornelia Cecil celebrated the couple in style, lavishing them with thoughtful gifts. Among the wedding gifts were 70 pieces of silver, 53 pieces of china, 25 pieces of jewelry, 20 books, and two pieces of Tiffany glass. Several notable gifts include a Jade Vanity Case, Jade Hatpin, and Amethyst Pendant. Not all gifts were opulent; servants of Biltmore House gifted heartwarming, homemade gifts–and even a puppy! In return, Cornelia and John gifted their guests a sweet treat from Maison Rauscher of Washington. Biltmore’s floral team displays a recreation of Cornelia and John’s wedding bell in the Tapestry Gallery. × The Honorable and Mrs. John F.A. Cecil pose beneath a large wedding bell displayed in the Tapestry Gallery. × Close-up view of the recreated wedding bell. × See a piece of history re-created! In honor of the 100th anniversary, our Floral team re-created the massive floral wedding bell under which John and Cornelia Cecil stood in the Tapestry Gallery to receive their guests. Covered in carnations and sweet peas, the decorative bell was on display, as part of our Spring at Biltmore celebrations. Featured image: John and Cornelia Cecil leave All Souls Church under an arch of floral branches carried by estate children.
Through the Lens: Biltmore’s Most Instaworthy Moments Posted on March 22, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Karina Hux A day on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC is a photophile’s dream! No matter what style of photography you prefer, there’s always a place to #capturethemoment. We’ve found the most instaworthy spots; now all that’s left for you to do is get out your camera and point, tap, and shoot! Over 100,000 sunflowers will bloom in our sunflower field at the end of summer this year! #FarmyardFriends One way we continue our farming legacy is by raising some of the same heritage breeds that were here during George Vanderbilt’s lifetime. Everybody loves cute baby animals and spring is the prime time to meet the newest members of the Farmyard family. Kids will enjoy meeting our friendly farm animals, learning about life on the farm, and playing at the Pisgah Playground. If a deeper understanding of Biltmore and agriculture is what you’re looking for, our Farm to Table Tour and Taste will take you to the rarely seen West Side of the estate, where our livestock is raised and our greenhouses thrive. You’ll get a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at our Black Angus and Jersey beef cattle, Berkshire hogs, and Dorper sheep. If you’re lucky, you might even see their hardworking protectors, three Great Pyrenees. #NaturalPerspective Sometimes the best photos are taken off the beaten path. With over 22 miles of trails to explore, you’re sure to find your own instaworthy hidden gems among the forests and fields. The Bass Pond offers a different perspective of Frederick Law Olmsted’s work on Biltmore Estate. One of our favorite spots to explore and capture is the Bass Pond, situated at the end of Biltmore’s formal gardens. Although it may be a bit of a walk, the charm of its scenery makes it well worth it. A rustic boathouse stands on the shore, and a bridge spans the waterfall at the far end. It’s the perfect spot for photographing instaworthy seasonal color changes and birdwatching all year long. Get lost in the natural wonder of Biltmore’s 8,000 acres. If you’re up for a challenge, we highly recommend exploring the Westover Trails for a deeper look at the Birthplace of American Forestry. The black route totals 3.5 miles round-trip, taking you deep into the beautiful woodlands of Biltmore Estate. Great for technical bike riding and an advanced hiking experience, it’s also a wonderful area to get that instaworthy photo of local flora and fauna. Just remember to put your comfy shoes on; this one’s a doozy! #SipandSavor Stop by The Library Lounge at The Inn on Biltmore Estate for a #buzzworthy view! Photo courtesy of Heather Angel. Are you a foodie that moonlights as a shutterbug? You’ll find delicious treats all across the estate! Stop by our Wine Bar in Antler Hill Village for a glass of our award-winning red, white, and rosé Biltmore Wines and expertly paired charcuterie or locally-crafted chocolates! For mouthwatering menus to share with your followers, be sure to visit one (or more!) of our seven restaurants; each featuring a selection of our estate-raised specialties bursting with flavor and vivid colors of the season’s fresh-grown herbs and vegetables. Photo courtesy of Camryn Glackin of Coral & Charm #SecretSpot! Just steps away from The Dining Room (our four-star dining experience) at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, you’ll find this serene lookout spot. George Vanderbilt was enamored with the rolling hills and Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, and so are we. One of the most peaceful moments on the estate can be seen in the wee hours of the morning when the fog gently settles within the crevices of the hills. #BiltmoreBlooms Spring and summer are our most brightly colored seasons, but Biltmore’s gardens and grounds boast year-round beauty. Grab your cameras and stop to smell the tulips – and the azaleas, roses, orchids, daffodils; the list goes on and on! Tiptoe through the tulips with your loved ones. The Walled Garden is a guest favorite during Spring at Biltmore. This festival of flowers marks the blooming of our 100,000 bulbs planted estate-wide. You’ll find 50,000 tulips, 14,000 daffodils, 1,000 hyacinths, and a variety of other flowers and shrubs. During the summer months, the beds transform with towering tropical plants, Make your way down the paths to our soaring glass-ceilinged Conservatory for a one-of-a-kind display of lush, exotic, and tropical plants. Macro photographers will be in heaven with eye-level plants around every corner. Wisteria thrives with robust support, much like the sturdy crafted latticework it is holding onto. Situated near Biltmore House are two distinctive pergolas covered in eye-catching wisteria that blooms each spring; one on the Library Terrace and one just below the South Terrace. The scent of wisteria in full bloom is intoxicating and the light purple blooms flutter in the breeze! Take a seat on one of the benches and point your camera skyward. The Wisteria reaches out to greet your lens, beckoning for that #pictureperfect moment. Our night-blooming lilies reach their peak bloom in the early morning and close completely by noon. Right beside the Library Terrace of Biltmore House is the Italian Garden. Each spring and summer, numerous varieties of exotic water lilies, tropical bananas, papyrus, and other plants and flowers bloom in the water garden. The different colors and varieties create a mosaic effect for the koi fish to swim among. Although it’s one of the most visited areas of the estate, many guests don’t realize that it remains astoundingly faithful to the original design from 1895. #Instagood One of the most iconic views of America’s Largest Home® can be captured from the lower and high lawn atop the Rampe Douce. You’re going to want to get out your wide-angle lens for this view! Biltmore House stands in all its glory with the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains just behind. It’s also a picture-perfect location to sprawl out on a warm day with a picnic basket and a bottle of Biltmore Wines! #TravelGoals… Plan Your Visit Today! You only live once, right? Are you ready to experience all the special instaworthy moments Biltmore has to offer? Reserve your visit and be sure to tag @biltmoreestate #biltmore when you share your memories on social! Tip: Be sure to review Biltmore’s photography policies before your visit.
Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan and Sweet Potato Skins Recipe Posted on March 15, 2024 at 1:00 pm.Written by Heather Angel This arugula salad recipe was created especially for Biltmore by Chef Vivian Howard of A Chef’s Life on PBS and is a perfect blend of taste and texture for spring! Wine Pairing Suggestion: Pairs well with many of our crisp, dry white wines including Biltmore® Reserve Chardonnay and Vanderbilt Reserve® Sauvignon Blanc. Savor this elevated spring salad by Chef Vivian Howard! Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan and Sweet Potato Skins Total time: 1 hour Serving Size: 4 people Ingredients: 4 roasted sweet potatoes (scoop out flesh and reserve for other use) Vegetable oil Kosher salt to taste 6 ounces mature spicy arugula leaves 1 cup shaved Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, or Ricotta Olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and kosher salt to taste Maple Reduction ½ cup maple syrup or honey ¼ cup cider vinegar 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 1 pinch chili flakes Instructions: Roast sweet potatoes in a 450°F oven for 45–60 minutes. Cut the potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh; reserve for other use. Cut your sweet potato skins into strips or wedges. Add enough oil to a sauté pan so that it climbs about a third of an inch up the pan’s sides. Heat the oil over medium heat and brown the skins on both sides. Some parts of the skin will be browner than others. Drain the skins on paper towels and season them liberally with kosher salt. Meanwhile in a small sauce or sauté pan simmer together the maple syrup, coriander seeds, vinegar and chili flakes till it reduces ever so slightly. Toss arugula, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and shaved cheese together in a bowl. Portion onto four plates and top each serving with sweet potato skins. Drizzle with maple reduction.
Spring at Biltmore: A Delight for the Senses Posted on March 1, 2024 at 9:00 am.Written by Karina Hux As Biltmore awakens from its wintertime slumber, a wonderland for the senses unfolds across our mountain oasis. Discover some of our favorite ways to delight all five of your senses this spring with a visit to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. Installation from Chihuly at Biltmore, March 25, 2024 – February 2, 2025 at Amherst. Dale Chihuly, Persian Ceiling, 2012, 25 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2012 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Must-see masterpieces Spring offers up an everchanging visual kaleidoscope of color as our historic landscapes bloom weekly with the vibrant hues of tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and rhododendrons! Plus, every spring, Biltmore’s Floral team displays special arrangements throughout Biltmore House inspired by the gardens in bloom. This beauty extends far beyond our garden walls to Chihuly at Biltmore, presented in our gallery setting at Amherst at Deerpark® premiering March 25, 2024. Dale Chihuly’s renowned works will leave you breathless as you experience the stunning fusion of vibrant hues and dynamic shapes of his pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of Chandeliers, Towers, Mille Fiori, and Neon. Tip: Chihuly at Biltmore is an awe-inspiring experience for families and guests of all ages. That said, due to the nature of the exhibition, all guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Take a moment to stop and smell the Tulips in Biltmore Gardens. Fragrances and flavors to savor This time of year, it feels like the air is transforming right beneath your nose! Be sure to stop and smell the flowers during your springtime stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and grounds. The scents of our gardens and grounds in bloom seamlessly intertwine with Biltmore’s award-winning wines and estate-grown farm-to-table fare. As you swirl, sniff, sip, and savor our favorite spring wines, make note of the distinctive tasting notes and fragrances, expertly crafted by our Winemakers. Once your palette is warmed up, consider indulging in a guided Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting to help you discover why chocolate and red wine are a match made in heaven. George Vanderbilt’s vision of a self-sustaining estate extends past our wines. Biltmore remains a working farm, producing field crops, pastured beef, lamb, pork, and eggs from chickens, to be served in restaurants across the estate. Recreate the dishes you loved during your visit with seasonal recipes and Biltmore’s gourmet foods delivered right to your door when you shop online. Hear the stories of this grand estate with an all-new Biltmore House audio guide in spring 2024! The sounds of Spring at Biltmore Discover the stories of this National Historic Landmark and the people who lived and worked here over a century ago as you listen to an all-new audio guide for Biltmore House, coming in mid-April! If it’s been a while since you last explored America’s Largest Home, this spring will be a perfect time to come back to discover new and favorite stories. Dig even deeper into the stories of this opulent home by upgrading your visit to include an expert-guided tour. For spring break getaways and holidays, be sure to check our activities listing for special live music and events around the estate. Meet the bouncing baby animals at our Farmyard each spring. Hands-on learning and adventure Our expert guides are ready to help you discover educational, fun, and adventurous activities that fit your interests and abilities. Embark on a hike across Biltmore’s expansive grounds or coast along the winding gravel paths while the beauty of the landscape unfolds on one of our Guided Bike Rides. Or take it slow and grab the reins to connect with Biltmore’s history with a One-Hour Carriage Ride that offers breathtaking Blue Ridge mountain views and a rarely-seen view of the west façade. Just like clockwork, the animals that call Biltmore home welcome cuddly youngsters every spring. Visit Antler Hill Village for a deeper look at Biltmore’s legacy as a working farm. The Farmyard offers a kid-friendly introduction to farm life and the animals that are an integral part of our self-sustaining estate. Our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders) offers even more in-depth discovery of Biltmore’s farming legacy and how that connects to our modern field-to-table philosophy. Be sure to swing by Antler Hill Barn for fascinating demonstrations of Appalachian crafts, like broom-making, that are part of our estate history, naturalist talks, and more. Japanese magnolia and forsythia bloom outside of The Inn on Biltmore Estate each spring. Surround yourself with spring With a sensory treat around every corner, we invite you to fully immerse yourself in the unique experiences that await you this spring. Imagine waking to awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountain views and the scent of crisp spring air just outside your door. Plan your spring getaway now with admission and overnight stay packages featuring Chihuly at Biltmore, guided activities, and more. And, with so much to see, taste, smell, and do this year, spring is a perfect time of year to become a Biltmore Annual Passholder!
Presenting the Artist: Dale Chihuly Posted on February 18, 2024 at 12:00 am.Written by Jean Sexton Renowned for pushing the limits of glass as a medium, Dale Chihuly has presented groundbreaking artworks all around the world. With Chihuly at Biltmore now on display, we invite you to learn more about the artist and his lasting influences on contemporary art. James Mongrain, Dale Chihuly, and Andrea Lesnett, Rotolo in process, The Hotshop, The Boathouse, Seattle, 2013. ©Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Chihuly the innovator Born in Tacoma, Washington, Dale Chihuly embarked on his journey into the world of glass during his studies of interior design. His fascination with the medium led him to a Fulbright Scholarship that saw him travel to the renowned Venini glass factory in Venice, where he immersed himself in traditional techniques and team glassblowing. His innovative teaching methods and artistic vision left an undeniable mark on the field, pushing boundaries and emphasizing collaborative glassblowing techniques. Chihuly’s ideas have pushed the limits of glass as an artistic medium, with his work included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide, earning him numerous awards, including two National Endowment for the Arts fellowships and 13 honorary doctorates. Dale Chihuly Paintbrushes, 2016 Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, installed 2019 © Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × Dale Chihuly Basket Forest, 2001 Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago © Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × Dale Chihuly Cobalt Reeds and Fiori, 2012; Glasshouse Sculpture, 2012; and Pacific Sun, 2011 Chihuly Garden and Glass, installed 2012 © Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × Exhibitions around the world Chihuly’s love for travel began with his first trip to Italy at the age of 21, where he pursued the study of art in Florence. He returned to Italy in 1996 for perhaps his most iconic project, Chihuly Over Venice, a massive undertaking that started with glassblowing sessions in Finland, Ireland, and Mexico. At this time, his work has been featured in 26 countries and Chihuly continues to present ambitious exhibitions at museums and botanical gardens across the globe. Dale Chihuly, Ethereal White Persian Pond, 2018, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore, installed 2021 © 2018 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Art on a grand scale Chihuly’s work boasts more than a dozen acclaimed series, each a testament to his mastery of form and color. Among these are Cylinders, Baskets, Seaforms, Macchia, Persians, Venetians, Niijima Floats, Chandeliers, and Fiori—many of which are incorporated in the current exhibition at Biltmore! Chihuly’s lifelong fascination with nature and glasshouses grew into a series of exhibitions within botanical settings, including London’s Kew Gardens, Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory and Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay. In 2012, his long-term exhibition, Chihuly Garden and Glass, opened at Seattle Center. In 2018, Biltmore welcomed Chihuly at Biltmore, an exhibition showcasing the artist’s breathtaking large-scale glass sculptures in the century-old gardens of America’s Largest Home®. This unique visual experience marked the first art exhibition in Biltmore’s historic gardens and the first garden exhibition of artist Dale Chihuly’s works in North Carolina. Dale Chihuly, Mille Fiori (detail), 2023, 8‐1/2 x 34‐1/2 x 15′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × Dale Chihuly, Sapphire Neon and Neodymium Reeds on Logs (detail), 2023, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2023 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × Dale Chihuly, Ikebana Doppio Drawing Suite #9, 2001, 7 x 30′, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2024 © 2001 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. × An all-new Chihuly at Biltmore The success of Chihuly’s 2018 outdoor exhibition at Biltmore paved the way for an all-new Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, now on view inside the galleries of Amherst at Deerpark®. Featuring 33 curated artworks, including pedestal works, Drawings, Chandeliers, Towers, Mille Fiori, Neon, and two large-scale installations on estate grounds, this exhibition offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Chihuly’s iconic artworks. Dale Chihuly, Iris Gold and Garnet Chandelier, 2022, 9-1/2 x 6 x 6′, Biltmore Winery, Asheville, North Carolina, installed 2023 © 2022 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved. Experience awe-inspiring artwork at Biltmore Ready to immerse yourself in a world of wonder? Plan your visit and reserve your special admission-inclusive overnight package at one of our distinctive hotels for this must-see exhibition. Featured Image Dale Chihuly with Laguna Torcello II, Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, 2018 © 2018 Chihuly Studio. All rights reserved.