Spice up your holiday with a grand tour through the southeast, starting in Asheville, N.C., and then proceeding to Greenville S.C., and on to the low country of South Carolina. This three-stop tour gives you the best of all worlds, from the mountains to the foothills to the coast. Guests can complete the tour on a long weekend via car. Pack up your comfortable walking shoes and a festive holiday spirit as you get ready to meander through the southeast, delighting in the areas rich history and scenic garden foliage.
Start your festive journey at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C. Nestled in the mountains, this 250-room mansion, modeled after a French Chateau, was built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. He initially welcomed guests to the property on Christmas Eve 1895, and today the holiday remains a special time for the estate and all who pass through its entry. Guests can enjoy a walking tour of the mansion and view the Victorian era Christmas decorations, then take a break at the estate's winery, featuring wines made on the estate, and return to the Inn on Biltmore Estate for overnight accommodations. In mid-October, the Biltmore House begins its seasonal Candelight Christmas Evenings, offering tours of the house illuminated by the fireplaces and candles amidst the holiday ornaments.
The Biltmore House
1 Approach Rd.
Asheville, NC
800-411-3812
biltmore.com
Just a short drive South to Greenville, S.C., visitors arrive at the foothills, reaching the charming downtown area, featuring a downtown waterfall---a unique feature found in just a few American cities. The Falls Park on the Reedy offers guests a glimpse of the waterfall from the uniquely-designed suspension bridge. Hotel accommodations are available at the Westin Poinsett giving travelers a glimpse of the main street. Once an Indian trading post, Greenville has grown to a thriving southern city, offering travelers access to boutiques, art galleries, international cuisine and overnight accommodations.
Westin Poinsett
120 South Main St.
Greenville, SC 29601
864-421-9700
westin.com
Continuing South to Charleston, S.C., weekend travelers can visit Middleton Place, which features expansive gardens that pay homage to the ones originally fashioned by Henry Middleton when he created them in 1741. Garden lovers can enjoy the geometry, balance and order as they walk through the scenic walkways along the estate. Guests can stay on the property at the Inn at Middleton Place and enjoy libations in Charleston. The Middleton estate is a National Historic Landmark and is open 364 days a year, closed only on Christmas Day.
Middleton Place
4300 Ashley River Rd.
Charleston, SC 29414
843-556-6020
middletonplace.org
