**Following this description and itinerary, you will have the opportunity to book and pay for the trip on this, WeTravel website. If you prefer to register directly with Trips by Patty and pay by check, return to the Trips by Patty website to the Payment Options page or email Patty at tripsbypatty@gmail.com.***
This 3 day/2 night trip to Asheville and the Biltmore House features a tour of the country's largest private home along with time to be "wowed" by a special exhibit. Chihuly at Biltmore showcases breathtaking large-scale glass sculptures in an equally breathtaking setting: the historic gardens of the Biltmore House. The vibrant colors and organic shapes that distinguish Chihuly’s dramatic creations are captivating presented within Biltmore’s artfully designed landscapes. The sculptures’ placement in the gardens offer an intriguing juxtaposition of the master works of two consummate artists—premier American artist Dale Chihuly and revered Biltmore landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted. The trip also includes optional time the second day for a "Beyond Biltmore" narrated trolley tour in the afternoon of Asheville's vibrant downtown, the River Arts District and historic neighborhoods.
Trip accommodations are located on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Choose the casual Village Hotel designed with half-timbered English Cottage charm and located within steps of the Winery, shopping and dining and Antler Hill Village. Rooms are equipped with refrigerators for those who enjoy bringing along their own beverages and snacks.
Choose the Inn on Biltmore Estate if you prefer a little more elegance. This is a four-star hotel set upon a hill overlooking the Winery and Antler Hill Village with unparalleled views of the mountains and estate grounds.
Emergencies happen. I don't like to keep people's money when something happens that forces you to cancel the trip. My philosophy and policy is that I return all costs to you that I can recover. Many times this is 100% if you have to cancel pretty far out but if it is last minute I may not be able to recover the cost of a ticket or hotel room. I also will always try to resell your seat. Sometimes I have a waiting list for trips and this is possible. Of course, a sure way to protect your trip investment is with the purchase of trip insurance. WeTravel offers insurance through TravelEx Insurance or feel free to use a company of your own choosing.
If I have to cancel the trip due to lack of participation or bad weather (last year Hurricane Irma forced a cancellation), I will try to reschedule the trip first. If this is not possible, then I will refund your trip purchase.
8:30am Depart St. James from the Lower Members Club Parking
Approx. 4:30pm - Arrive Biltmore Estate for check-in. Trip enroute includes stop for lunch and leg stretch/restroom breaks
Evening activities include dinner in the Stable Cafe and time to tour the illuminated Chihuly Nights exhibit.