Twelve Days of a Dixie Christmas #6

A Countdown to our Favorite Christmas Destination The Christmas season is taken pretty seriously in the southeastern US, and the Richardson Tribe has a dozen suggested destinations to make your holidays more adventurous. Over the next 12 days, we will reveal each of our favorite RV camping and recreation spots until we reach our #1 Christmas Holiday Destination. Come back each day to see the places this southern family has grown to love. #6 - Biltmore Estate - Asheville, North Carolina This nominee caused a little dilemma in the Richardson household. The Biltmore Estate is very near another beloved destination on the countdown list, and we considered combining the two. However, after several votes and re-votes, we determined that the Biltmore Estate could stand on its own. Honestly? It was probably the animals at the farm that closed the deal. Yes, we love animals, and the Biltmore Estate has a small farm complete with goats, horses, chickens, and a variety of other farm animals. But that's really not the main attraction. Let me explain... The Vanderbilt home was built between 1889 and 1895 as a Summer home by George Vanderbilt, one of the wealthiest men in the world at the time. Over the course of six years, hundreds of designers, architects, artisans and craftsmen were employed to complete the 135,000 square foot chateau. The home features 250 rooms, an indoor lighted pool, a two-lane bowling alley, a work-out room, an intercom system, elaborate horse stables, and hundreds of priceless antiques, artworks, and various other furnishings. Visiting the home is a memorable experience (and you will have to remember it, because no interior photography is allowed). The adult admission (as of 01/01/2011) is $75 which seems a bit steep, but Kids nine and under are free. That makes it a decent value for a large family, especially considering it's an all day event. Christmas is extra special at the Biltmore. Imagine how the wealthiest Americans might decorate their home for the holidays. There are Christmas trees, wreaths, candles, and all sorts of ribbons and colorful wall hangings dedicated to the festive Christmas holiday. The Biltmore Estate is a place you really should visit during the Christmas holidays. The beauty is astounding. Cataloochee Ski Area, While visiting the Biltmore Estate, we like to RV camp in Maggie Valley. The area provides multiple opportunities for fun, food, education, and outdoor activities. Maggie Valley is host to an awesome motorcycle museum, gem mining, great restaurants, entertainment, and one of our favorites, the Cataloochee Ski Area, If you would like to see more pictures and details about the Biltmore Estate, click here.

Biltmore Estate - Asheville, North Carolina

 

Unimaginable Beauty and Luxury The Biltmore Estate is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, North Carolina. The home was built between 1889 and 1895 as a Summer home by George Vanderbilt, one of the wealthiest men in the world at the time. Over the course of six years, hundreds of designers, architects, artisans and craftsmen were employed to complete the 135,000 square foot chateau. The home features 250 rooms, an indoor lighted pool, a two-lane bowling alley, a work-out room, an intercom system, elaborate horse stables, and hundreds of priceless antiques, artworks, and various other furnishings. Visiting the home is a memorable experience (and you will have to remember it, because no interior photography is allowed). The adult admission (as of 01/01/2011) is $75 which seems a bit steep, but Kids nine and under are free. That makes it a decent value for a large family, especially considering it's an all day event. In addition to the home's lavish interior, the grounds are breathtaking. The landscape was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York's Central Park. Plush gardens and native flora and fauna abound throughout the 8.000 acre estate. Keep in mind, landscaping was completed in the 1890s, so much of the shrubbery is very very old and massive. The "tree trunks" you see in the image to the right is wisteria. Also on the estate is Antler Hill Village that hosts a winery, shops, and farm (including a petting zoo). Honestly, the farm is the biggest hit with the kids. The animals are very friendly, as is the staff. The old barn at the Biltmore farm has been restored and features a black smith and wood artisan demonstrating their craft. Additionally, the barn is a sort of museum displaying dozens of old farm implements. The highly-rated winery features a tour and tasting session. The Biltmore Estate caters to active families by providing miles of biking and walking paths. Bikes can be rented on-site. Additionally, visitors can  enjoy exclusive activities such as a Land Rover driving experience or an off-road Segway tour. If you're considering a stay at Biltmore Estate, there are cottages and an Inn (starting around $480 per night for two) on the property. No, you cannot stay in the "big house."  We typically stay on Jonathon Creek in our RV in nearby Maggie Valley for about $33 per night. In summary, the Biltmore Estate is a wonderful place to take the family. The kids will be remarkably entertained, even in the house. Our best advice, however, is to arrive early and plan on staying the entire day. You will not be disappointed.