From Staff Reports

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Biltmore “boasts some of the most stunning fall color in Western North Carolina,” an Aug. 27 Biltmore Estate press release noted. “We offer several experiences that are perfect for taking in the scenery, with plenty of space for social distancing.”

The release added, “Since we added a falconry experience to our array of outdoor activities, we’ve received rave reviews.” In a recent session, the instructor discusses the ancient art of falconry while showing program participants how to work with a trained falcon or hawk. “The session culminates with a bird taking off from and landing on your gloved hand,” the release noted.

“Our Biltmore Gardens Railway, a large model train display in Antler Hill Village, features intricately constructed miniature replicas of the country’s most iconic train stations. Fun for train enthusiasts of all ages.

 â€œInside Biltmore House, we’ve seen great interest in the Biltmore Exclusive Experience, our custom, two-hour tour for small groups with an expert guide who specializes in Vanderbilt history and estate stories. You’ll visit areas off the main tour that are based on your interests,” the release stated.

The Biltmore Exclusive Experience is one of three House tours now offered.

Meanwhile, Christmas at Biltmore will celebrate its 125th year.

“It was in December 1895 when George Vanderbilt hosted his first guests in his grand new home in North Carolina,” the release noted. “Christmas at Biltmore begins Nov. 6 and lasts through Jan. 10, 2021.”

The release added, “The planning of our dazzling annual holiday event is in the creative hands of Lizzie Borchers, our floral design mManager, and her talented team of designers. Add to that the precautions and safety measures the staff is taking to keep everyone safe AND provide an authentic experience for our guests. It has been a delicate balance.”

 Also, “At dusk each evening just before Biltmore House opens for candlelight tours, a team of employees carefully hand-lights 250 paper luminaries around the front lawn of Biltmore House. These lights are the crowning touch on a magnificent and magical display of lights for guests arriving for their tours.” 

What’s more, “poinsettias create a festive and traditional holiday atmosphere in the soaring Biltmore Conservatory every Christmas to the delight of our guests.” 

Regarding Biltmore’s wines, “archival letters show that (Biltmore’s founder) George Vanderbilt was a thoughtful wine collector who enjoyed sharing his favorite vintages with friends and family at Biltmore,” the release stated.

“We preserve his legacy of entertaining guests by handcrafting Biltmore wines with grapes from our own vineyards and trusted growing partners.

“For the holidays we are offering our traditional Biltmore Red Release and Biltmore White Release. A very special 125th Anniversary Sparkling Release is set for November. It is being made from fruit from a group of Chardonnay clones that have been growing in our vineyard.”