If there is any place that radiates with a magical seasonal spirit it's Asheville, N.C. Although it's a heavenly place year-round, there is something majestic about the city during the holiday season.
Asheville is home to America's largest house and possibly the most Christmas decorations you'll ever see in one place. The Biltmore's Christmas experience is truly unique and not to be missed in one's lifetime. I have made many trips to the Biltmore and my favorite time to visit is while it's halls are decked for the holidays.
Upon entering the house for a tour one year, snow flakes began to dust the front of the estate. By the time we circled back to the front entrance of the house the lawn was coated with a thick layer of white powder. Being from South Carolina I grew up deprived of snowfall, so for me any snow is spectacular. To see the Biltmore house glistening in the snow was a surreal experience.
While at the Biltmore be sure to check out their enormous gingerbread house.If you don't get enough gingerbread inspiration there don't worry, that is just the beginning. Grove Park Inn, a local resort, hosts an annual National Gingerbread Competition and displays the houses until January 11, 2009 this year. With four age groups (adult, teen, youth and child) there is a nice range of skill. From the pearls on the sleigh to the minute snowflake border, grand prize winner Billie Mochow did not miss a single detail on her house.
If you're looking to do a little Christmas souvenir shoppping, my favorite place in Asheville is the Biltmore Village just outside the entrance to the Biltmore house. This quaint village is like the cherry on top of the 'Asheville during Christmas' sundae.
The period architecture used throughout the village is a large contributing factor to the picturesque feeling of the area. Illuminated with Christmas lights, the Biltmore village is home to businesses, art galleries, home furnishing and craft stores. Did I mention the amazing art galleries? Asheville is an art lover's paradise. Galleries can be found with almost every turn you take in the city.
My last tip for a Christmas vacay in Asheville is to do a little research on your lodging before booking anything! You could be the typical tourist and book a room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate paying outrageous amounts, or you could do a little research and find a good deal! For a change of pace, I recommend looking into Bed and Breakfasts in Asheville. There are plenty in the area that are not the old lady with cats ambiance, rather updated and well-kept. My husband and I stayed at the Biltmore Village Inn as a sort of pre-honeymoon, my only comment- perfection.
Christmas decorations galore, art galleries aplenty, shopping and historic sites that compete with the natural beauty surrounding you-- a Christmas oasis to get lost in. You'll be booking your next trip to Asheville before you even get back home. Happy planning travelers!
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