The Inn on Biltmore Estate
"Start us off with an establishing shot: what does this hotel look like? What's the vibe?The Inn at the Biltmore Estate is a formal affair. Marble floors grace the lobby; oriental rugs hide unworthy elevator floors; and you must first consult with the maître d’ before you even think about taking a seat on the breezy outdoor veranda. Rooms are done in a 19th-century French- and English-manor style, with four-poster mahogany wooden beds and tidy white quilts with pillows bearing the “V” monogram of the Vanderbilt family—you can almost imagine ringing your lady’s maid come morning—while Gilchrist and Soames amenities are on hand in marble bathrooms. Give us the backstory on this place.There are three lodgings on Biltmore Estate, and the Inn is luxurious; not personal-butler luxurious, but plenty grand, upscale, and refined. All told, staying at the Inn, with its discreet, white-glove service, exclusive House access, and stunning views, is almost like being a guest of the Vanderbilts. Tell us about the digs.Rooms are as elegant as you'd expect, with creams and beiges, luxurious bedding, and all of the luxuries usually associated with a AAA Four Diamond–rated hotel. If you can swing it, go big with the Chateau tier, which offers expanded amenities, including 24-hour access to a private lounge with snacks, a welcome drink, and larger rooms with more breathtaking views. What's the deal with the F&B?Breakfast, which you're charged for on top of the room rate (unless you're at the Chateau level), is a buffet of fluffy biscuits with jam, fresh juices, and other hospitable Southern selections. The estate winery is a huge draw, even for visitors who aren't overnight guests, with complimentary tasting of reds, whites, and rosés. A wine bar serves reserve and sparkling wines by the glass, plus cheeses, charcuterie, and locally made chocolate truffles. How'd you find the service?This a seamless operation. To wit: There’s the spry young valet staff who will run—yes, run—to fetch your car, and servers who will coyly offer to bottle up some of that house-made blackberry jam you just not-so-subtly inhaled at breakfast. Nightly turndown service, itinerary planning, horseback riding, and private winery visits are all within the staff's capable hands. Who else is staying here?Couples, including many celebrating honeymoons and anniversaries. Maybe they know the difference between a peony and a petunia in the gardens, and they don't mind getting a little schnockered at the winery. After all, they're on vacation. What's the surrounding area like? Can we find anything else near here?If you believe that the best thing about Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, this is the perfect hotel. However, if you're into more interested in roaming around the downtown area, note that you'll have to drive. Any other noteworthy features?The hotel lounge isn't really a hotspot; don't expect to burn the midnight oil here. During the day, visit Antler Hill Village, a charming, if kitschy, collection of shops that includes a confectionery, a bookbinder, and most importantly, bike rentals—spend a half or whole day riding around the vast, Frederick Law Olmsted–designed grounds. What's the bottom line?This is like a Downton Abbey theme park—stateside." - Stephanie Burt
