For those who have visited the White House or Hearst Castle and thought them to be grand mansions, think again. The Biltmore Estate, built in the 19th century by George Vanderbilt II, is three times larger than the President’s Pennsylvania Avenue digs. This stunning architectural treasure is a National Historic Landmark and one of the country’s top tourist attractions.

There are a myriad of activities available at the Biltmore Estate. Travelers can tour the mansion, which, in addition to rooms filled with priceless furnishings and artwork, includes 65 fireplaces, an indoor pool and a bowling alley. There is a winery offering tours and tastings. The grounds include River Bend Farm, which recreates a 19th-century farm.

For the outdoor enthusiast, one can take a float trip along the French Broad River, which runs through the property. There are biking and hiking trails, and fly-fishing, horseback riding and carriage rides all are available.

While rooms are available at the Biltmore Estate, booking a reservation at one of Asheville’s romantic and historic bed and breakfast inns is a better value.

The Asheville Seasons Bed & Breakfast is an excellent choice for those planning a visit to the Biltmore Estate. Located in the Historic District of Montford, this Asheville inn is within walking distance of downtown, less than four miles from the Biltmore Estate and just a 10-minute drive from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.

The tastefully furnished Asheville inn offers five guest rooms, each individually decorated with a private bath. Most of the rooms also have a fireplace. The Kingsdown beds are topped with the finest linens, and the baths are stocked with all the amenities, as well as fluffy towels and soft robes. Guests also are treated to a full, multi-course gourmet breakfast each morning.

There are several packages available, including a special add-on for guests who wish to visit the Biltmore Estate. This add-on includes tickets for two days to the famous estate and its winery. In addition, the innkeepers can help plan other excursions in the area and help with shopping and restaurant suggestions.