March 28-31 (Monday-Thursday)

The Biltmore Estate Spring Special

Asheville, NC

Day 1: Welcome Aboard!  Travel in comfort aboard our deluxe motor coach through the scenic southern countryside of the Blue Ridge Mountains to Asheville, North Carolina.  Before checking into our hotel for the next three nights, we wrap up today’s travels by enjoying a delicious dinner and  entertainment at a popular local restaurant.  Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit to take advantage of the hotel’s indoor pool & whirlpool.  (D)    

Day 2: After a deluxe continental breakfast we meet our step-on guide, and depart for a narrated driving tour of Asheville.  You will be amazed by the Art Deco architecture and hidden treasures that wait to be discovered in Asheville’s downtown, for example the engineering wonder of the tile dome ceiling at the St. Lawrence Basilica.  Next step inside the Smith-McDowell House Museum.  Explore Asheville’s first mansion and oldest surviving structure, now restored as a history museum.  In addition to seeing restored period rooms spanning 1840 through 1900, the Museum also features special history exhibits in the Gallery Rooms.  Later we return to the hotel where you will have some leisure time to sit, relax and freshen up before departing for dinner.  This evening experience the gracious hospitality served up at the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa while enjoying a delicious dinner in the main dining room.  (B, D)  

Day 3: After a deluxe continental breakfast we depart for the legendary Biltmore Estate for a day of sightseeing.  The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately-owned home in America.  Highlights of the Biltmore Estate tour include access to the George Vanderbilt’s French chateau style mansion, it’s formal gardens, and the estate’s winery where you will be treated to a wine tasting.  A delicious family style luncheon is included at Biltmore’s Deerpark Restaurant.  Later we make the short drive to the Western North Carolina Farmers Market.  Vendors sell everything from mountain crafts and produce, to assorted jams, jellies, preserves, honey and other gift items.  Dinner is on your own.  There is a Shoney’s restaurant conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel.  (B, L)        

Day 4: After a deluxe continental breakfast we depart for home taking with us fond memories of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, great southern hospitality, food and history, and the experience of visiting one of the grandest homes and gardens in America.  (B)    

Included:   

?  Basic amenities

?  3 nights hotel accommodations

?  3 deluxe continental breakfasts

?  1 family style luncheon

?  2 dinners

?  1 evening of live entertainment 

?  Guided Tour of Asheville

?  St. Lawrence Basilica

?  Smith-McDowell House Museum

?  Visit Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa

?  Biltmore Estate

?  Wine Tasting

?  Visit Western North Carolina Farmers Market

?  Attractions and admissions per itinerary

Price:

$399.00 Double/PP       $379.00 Triple/PP

$369.00 Quad/PP                   $479.00 Single

Deposit:  $125.00/PP

Balance Due:  February 14, 2011

                             Depart                 Return

Carney                  6:00 AM                7:45 PM

Gunther                 6:45 AM                7:00 PM