As I planned my 22 hour, week long road trip to North Carolina, my dear friend (also the one who made the trip with me) told me about this magical place called The Biltmore. She showed me pictures and told tales of it’s magnitude and beauty, and I knew I had to go. So I did some research, learned more about the Biltmore and it’s rich history, and planned one full day to explore this beautiful estate. And I am very glad I did.  

This breathtaking home of George and Edith Vanderbilt is as rich with history and detail as it is breathtakingly beautiful. George’s love for travel and culture is reflected in every bit of the estate, from the gardens to the architecture to his vast collection of one of a kind artwork and artifacts from all over the world.

George Vanderbilt hired Richard Morris Hunt to help bring his dream to reality. Together they traveled throughout Europe to study great homes and castles to get inspiration as they set out to design the Biltmore.

Design of the beautiful rugged entry road, multiple gardens and landscaping of the 125,000 acre estate was done by Frederick Law Olmstead. The conservatory is filled with plants from the many countries all over the world that Vanderbilt traveled to.

Not a bad back porch view.

A $49.00 entrance fee gives you access to the home, expansive gardens, the Antler Hill Village, and a tour and wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery. I actually went through the house twice. The first time I wondered through and chatted with the many kind and very informed employees who are eager and excited to share the history of each room with tourists. The second time through I grabbed a headset and learned a lot more about the architecture, artwork and people of Biltmore.  I highly recommend taking the entire day (or longer!) to really enjoy all this beautiful place has to offer! Go for a hike, enjoy a delicious meal in the Stable Cafe, take pictures, ride horses or bikes, and simply enjoy the beauty around you. Next time your’re in the mountains of North Carolina, stop by, and step back in time.

This is not a sponsored post, all opinions and photos are my own.