Biltmore in Candlelight

Day 1

Arrive in the late afternoon to Asheville, a city that effortlessly blends mountain beauty with an artsy, food-forward spirit. As the Blue Ridge Mountains frame your arrival, you’ll feel the pace slow and the creative energy kick in—murals, music, and the promise of great meals around every corner. This evening is all about savoring the region, beginning with a relaxed farm-to-fork dinner that highlights local ingredients and Appalachian-inspired flavors, the perfect introduction to Asheville’s celebrated culinary scene.
After dinner, make your way onto the iconic Biltmore Estate and check in to The Village Hotel, your home for the next three nights. Nestled in Antler Hill Village, the hotel offers a casual, comfortable retreat with unbeatable convenience. Step outside and enjoy a short stroll to charming shops, inviting restaurants, and the Biltmore Winery—ideal for a nightcap or a leisurely wander under softly lit walkways. Settle in, unwind, and soak up the atmosphere, knowing tomorrow brings your first full day exploring one of America’s most extraordinary estates.

Day 2

Start the morning with a leisurely breakfast before meeting a knowledgeable local guide who will bring Asheville’s story to life. From its vibrant arts scene to its historic architecture and mountain roots, this guided tour offers a deeper look at what makes Asheville such a distinctive and beloved destination.
Late morning and early afternoon are yours to enjoy lunch on your own in the heart of downtown. The elegant Grove Arcade, a beautifully restored 1920s building, serves as the perfect hub. Inside and just beyond its doors, you’ll find an impressive variety of eateries and boutiques. With roughly 25 restaurants within easy walking distance, options range from casual bites to elevated local favorites—plenty of freedom to follow your cravings.
This evening delivers the true pièce de résistance of the journey: the Biltmore Estate Christmas Candlelight Tour. As dusk settles, the estate transforms into something truly magical. Soft candlelight, glowing fireplaces, and lavishly decorated Christmas trees illuminate the grand halls of America’s largest home. Garlands, wreaths, and thousands of twinkling lights enhance the already opulent architecture, while live musicians fill the rooms with seasonal melodies. Experiencing Biltmore this way feels intimate and timeless—less like a tour and more like stepping into a living holiday story.
After soaking in the warmth and wonder of the candlelit estate, conclude the evening with dinner at the Stable Café. Set in the estate’s former horse stables, this relaxed and inviting restaurant offers hearty, comforting fare in a rustic yet refined setting.

Day 3

After breakfast, set out with a local expert for a scenic journey along one of America’s most beloved roadways—the Blue Ridge Parkway. This guided experience showcases the majestic beauty of the mountains, with sweeping overlooks, rolling ridgelines, and ever-changing vistas that feel especially peaceful this time of year. Along the way, stop at the Folk Art Center, home to an inspiring collection of traditional and contemporary Southern Appalachian crafts. From intricate woodwork to textiles and pottery, the center offers a meaningful connection to the region’s cultural heritage and creative spirit.
We will enjoy another meal in this foodie city, then as night falls, prepare to be captivated by the Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. Winding garden paths glow with thousands of artfully designed lights, illuminating trees, ponds, and winter landscapes in dazzling color and soft sparkle.

Day 4

After breakfast and check-out, begin the journey home, reflecting on a destination that manages to feel both invigorating and deeply comforting.
Along the way, enjoy a meaningful stop at The Hermitage, the historic home of President Andrew Jackson. Set on beautifully preserved grounds outside Nashville, this visit offers a fascinating glimpse into early American history and the life of the nation’s seventh president.
With history under your belt and the mountains in your rearview mirror, continue home with a heart full of experiences and a journey well traveled.

B=Breakfasst, L=Lunch, D=Dinner