Just in time for the holidays, one of North Carolina’s biggest attractions is reopening after Hurricane Helene ripped through the state.
Following its temporary closure at the end of September, the Biltmore Estate team has been hard at work preparing to welcome guests to the 800-acre estate, which is fully decked out with festive decor, twinkling lights and the iconic 35-foot Christmas tree.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” said Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore.
“As the recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also provides critical support to our region’s economy to help area workers, local businesses and friends. Together we can help restore the vibrancy of Asheville and the surrounding areas.”
Storm damage at ‘America’s largest house’
Biltmore Estate was one of several attractions forced to close after catastrophic flooding caused by the deadly storm.
Helene’s damage ranged across the property, the team previously announced, with very little to no impact on the property’s Biltmore House, conservatory, winery, gardens and hotels.
“The entrance to Biltmore, located in Biltmore Village, and other low-lying areas of the property, such as our farm, experienced significant flooding and building damage,” according to an announcement on Biltmore’s social media.
“Unfortunately we lost a few of our animals during the storm, but the vast majority are safe and protected thanks to our dedicated farming and equestrian teams.”
Christmas at Biltmore and estate changes
After spending a few weeks repairing damaged areas, the team will continue its annual tradition of a winter wonderland with “fragrant wreaths, glittering streamers and the sparkle of thousands of ornaments” in the country’s largest private home.
“While many things in our region have changed as a result of the storm, our holiday traditions have not. We have not scaled back the Christmas decorations, and Christmas at Biltmore will be enjoyed on the same grand scale as always,” a spokesperson for the estate told CharlotteFive.
“We celebrate Western North Carolina’s resilience during this extraordinary time, and the support of first responders, our community volunteers and our Biltmore team during the Helene recovery process allows us to reopen.”
From Saturday 2 November, all estate attractions, shops, restaurants, wineries and hotels will be open to guests during the day and at night.
As cleanup continues in the wooded areas surrounding the property, the trails are closed until further notice and the Outdoor Adventure Center has limited guided activities.
Since Helene’s attack on the area, many roads have reopened, but several are still closed around Biltmore. Below is a map of the estate with a modified guest itinerary for those planning to visit as recovery continues.
During this time, Biltmore shops, restaurants and other areas of the Biltmore property will also have different hours. More information and the latest updates on admission, hours, open activities and other experiences can be found online at biltmore.com/visit/visitor-information/know-before-you-go/.
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