As a frequent traveler between South Carolina and Tennessee, I often found myself driving through the enchanting city of Asheville, North Carolina. On this particular trip, I decided to take a break and explore the famous Biltmore Estate and indulge in some outdoor adventures.
My journey began with a visit to the magnificent Biltmore Estate, a place I had always been curious about. After purchasing my tickets, I decided to book a two-night stay to make the most of my visit. On the first night, I opted for a cabin in the mountains. As a city dweller, this was a thrilling change of pace.
The Biltmore Estate was a sight to behold. Taking the tram to the front entrance allowed me to appreciate the scenic beauty of the area, and I even learned about the local wildlife, including the possibility of spotting black bears (though I didn’t have the privilege). The estate itself was a masterpiece. I took an audio tour, which allowed me to explore at my own pace while learning about the mansion’s history. The opulent rooms that stood out to me were Mrs. Vanderbilt’s suite, the baby’s room, and the dining room. The back porch offered stunning views of the mountains, reminding me of the beauty of nature.
After a tour of the mansion, I enjoyed lunch at the food court, taking in the ambiance. Then, I wandered through the gardens, appreciating the lush landscapes. The Biltmore Estate was indeed a grand experience. For dinner, I headed downtown to Smokey Bone’s BBQ Smokehouse. I tried the blueberry chipotle ribs, which were a unique twist on a classic dish. Although being from the Midwest, I had high expectations for ribs, the sauce was a delightful surprise.
The next day, I embarked on the second part of my adventure, staying in a dome-shaped glamping tent in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This was a new experience for me as I had never camped before. The tent was equipped with a queen-sized bed, a dresser, a sink, and even a small cooking stove. Outside, an outhouse awaited, though I wasn’t keen on using it during the night. The day was serene, with fresh mountain air and no noise for miles around. Breakfast on the patio was a delightful experience with the mountains as a backdrop.
However, when night fell, I realized how different the wilderness could be. The sounds of coyotes, rustling leaves, and various creatures unsettled my city-bred nerves. My dreams of stargazing were dashed, as I huddled under the covers, my little Pomeranian offering no solace. It felt like a scene from a horror movie, and I couldn’t wait for the morning. By sunrise, I was more than ready to pack up and leave. My dog seemed to agree.
While the experience was a test of my courage, I’m not sure I’d willingly go through it again, at least not alone. In retrospect, my trip to Asheville was a unique and memorable adventure. From the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate to the unexpected challenges of glamping, it was an experience I won’t soon forget. And though I might have felt like I was in a horror movie, I’m proud that I stepped out of my comfort zone and embraced the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.
