VanNice Travels: Biltmore

Biltmore, home of the Vanderbilts. In 1888 on his first visit to North Carolina, George W. Vanderbilt was inspired to build a country home. After six years of building, it was complete! Three years later he brought his bride, Edith Stuyvesant Dresser, to Biltmore, and in 1900, their only child, Cornelia was born here.

George and Edith Vanderbilt welcomed their guests to relax and enjoy all the estate had to offer. Biltmore was a collaborative effort between Vanderbilt, architect Richard Morris Hunt, and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, whose combined talents created their greatest project. Below are many photos that we took of this extravagant home.

Two marble lions flank the front door.

Preparing for a wedding...

Spiraea

Daffodils and hyacinths.

Ram cornice on the second floor balcony.

Relaxing on the balcony and looking out at the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains that inspired Vanderbilt to build in this spot.

Peeking through the railing...

Downspout

One of many gargoyles.

Gutter

On each side of every balcony window was a character playing a different musical instrument. Elaborate statues and gargoyles were created by highly skilled craftsmen.

Looking up as we walk through the stable courtyard.

Another view of courtyard.

Back of Biltmore

It took 2 years to build the foundations and footings which extend down approximately 29 feet.

This amazing home had a bowling alley, gymnasium, and 70,000 gallon heated swimming pool in the basement. The unique tile vaulting of the pool was designed by architect Rafael Guastavino who also designed the New York subway.

Antler Hill Village

Azalea

Magnolia stellata

Magnolia

Biltmore Gardens

As soon as we stepped into the gardens, we could smell the daffodils and hyacinths.

Frederick Law Olmsted also designed New York's Central Park, took on the monumental task of planning the estate's gardens and grounds. His mastery of landscape design is anchored by the glass Conservatory seen in the background.