Simply put, the Biltmore in Asheville, NC is a must visit. The regions Blue Ridge Mountains are needed to give this massive home it’s foundation. George Vanderbilt designed the Biltmore as a testament to a life-long love of learning. The home offers engaging and vibrant lessons in art, horticulture, architecture, agriculture, engineering, science and land management to all it’s visitors.
Vanderbilt’s knowledge and view of what the world (he was “green” in 1885!) could be, was learned from the hundreds of books he collected and read throughout his lifetime. His grandson and great-grandchildren who continue operate the estate also offer an amazing case study in the business of private, self-sufficient preservation. The tours are guided and very entertaining.
The Biltmore has a few things that make it a great destination for me.
1. The Wine they make is really good! We finished our last Christmas bottle tonight.
2. The library is inspiring.
3. The railroad business! What is now Norfolk Southern was the Southern Railway Systems owned By George Vanderbilt (if I listened to my tour guide correctly).
