If you’re looking for a place to stay during a visit to Asheville, NC, I highly recommend The Inn on Biltmore Estate. This luxury hotel was the perfect place for our multi-generational family to stay and explore during our week-long road trip through some “American South” destinations. The Inn is situated on the greater Biltmore property, so it is about a 15-minute drive to downtown Asheville. The reward for this setting, however, is the most GORGEOUS view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
From the moment we turned onto the property drive, we were blown away by the beauty of the grounds. Sprawling flowers and tall, shady trees (one with a picturesque swing!) are beautifully lined against the lovely architecture of the Inn. Adirondack chairs are positioned on patios for guests to enjoy a drink with a view. Perhaps the most exciting factors for our group traveling with kids, however, were the pathways and hiking trails winding throughout the property. Ample space for running and playing was just what we needed after hours in the car!
As we pulled into the lobby entrance, we were met by the most gracious hotel staff who helped us inside and checked us in at the lobby desk. The Inn’s interior was impeccable – huge chandeliers, fresh flowers, a massive roaring fireplace, and a large library. The same level of detail could be found in the hotel rooms as well. A complimentary Biltmore coffee table book greeted us in a sitting area, art lined the walls, a fresh rose scented our bathroom, and luxurious soaps were included in our newly renovated shower. It’s clear that the Inn was modeled after the Vanderbilt vision for the nearby Biltmore House.
Activities
In addition to the beauty of the hotel and grounds, we found there was so much to do! Some of our highlights include:
Antler Village
Just a short walk along a paved path from The Inn on Biltmore Estate, Antler Village is a little hub with lots to do! Here, we enjoyed a (complimentary!) wine tasting from the Biltmore Winery, did some souvenir shopping, and took our toddler to the playground and petting zoo. Bike rentals are also available in Antler Village, which would be a great way to move about the property! A creamery and couple restaurant options are available to guests in this area. We ran out of time to try it out, but we heard wonderful things about the dinner at Village Social.
Tour of the Biltmore Estate
The most quintessential activity when visiting Asheville is touring the Biltmore Estate. This historic residence is the largest privately owned house in the United States. Built for George Washington Vanderbilt II, this luxurious mansion is quite an experience to tour! With 35 bedrooms for family and guests, a bowling alley, indoor swimming pool, three kitchens, a library, billiards room, servants’ quarters, and expansive gardens, it’s easy to spend hours exploring. A perk of staying at the Inn on the Biltmore Estate is that guests can go to and from the Biltmore Estate as they wish to enjoy self-led tours. A shuttle bus that runs continuously between venues conveniently transports visitors. Complimentary audio guides are distributed at the Estate to visitors who wish to learn the history and significance of different details of the house.
Meals at the Inn
During our stay, we enjoyed some fabulous meals right at the Inn. On the day of our arrival, we indulged in a delicious dinner at the library lounge. The lobster sliders, cobb salad, and mac ‘n cheese were divine! I’m still thinking about the cheese they used on those noodles. Breakfast at the Inn is not to be missed, either! One of my favorite moments from our visit was enjoying our coffees, hot chocolates, and delicious breakfast while gazing out the window at the most stunning views!
Pool and Spa
For guests in search of some relaxation time, it can be easily found at the Inn. A full-service spa is located right on property and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub overlook the mountains.
I thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. It provided a nice, slow pace for us to enjoy some quality time together yet also had lots of activities to enjoy at our leisure! The food, views, and staff were incredible. I’m already dreaming about returning!
Follow Along with our Summer Road Trip!
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