There are many spots on Biltmore Estate to get away from the crowds and enjoy some special time together - including asking someone to marry you or celebrating a birthday, anniversary or other milestone. Here are our 12 favorite romantic places on the estate to enjoy an outing with your sweetie:
1. Lagoon: Our favorite view of the castle is from the Lagoon along the main road through the estate - between the house and Antler Hill Village. As you drive past the Lagoon on your left, look for an unpaved drive just past the water with a one-lane bridge. This takes you to the spot in the photo above! While you will often share this scenic view with others, you can usually find a spot for a small picnic or take some chairs to enjoy the view.
2. Outdoors: Many people do not realize that you can bike or hike on many trials to find a secluded spot. Bring a backpack picnic to take on one of their many hiking trails. The Deerpark Trail is our favorite since it starts near the House and provides great views. Or book a horse-drawn carriage ride through the forests and pastures, stopping at the top of a hill that features a dramatic view of the back of Biltmore House.
3. Bass Pond: This small lake has several extra special spots, including the Boathouse (pic on left) and the top of the dam. Just be careful not to drop the ring in the water (yes, that has happened!). From the house, you can either drive and park roadside at the lake or stroll through the Walled Garden and Azalea Garden to the Bass Pond.
4. Statue of Diana, Goddess of the Hunt: From the House front lawn, walk up the grassy knoll opposite the House to a small gazebo with majestic views of castle and the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can also park in the top of Lot A for an easy stroll to Diana (photo on right).
5. South Terrace Tea House: With its gorgeous sunset views of Mount Pisgah, near the southern end of Biltmore House, the Tea House is an open-air gazebo. Especially a great spot during the winter months when the sun sets earlier.
6. Private Tour: Usually, proposals inside the House are not a good idea due to the crowds. But you can be a VIP and book a private tour ($150/person) inside the house, including the Rooftop Tour to propose on top of Biltmore House! Call Biltmore at 1-800-411-3812 to see the current options.
7. Rose Garden: The Walled Garden always has the most blooms - including the Rose Garden. Find the fewest other guests in the early morning or late afternoon (after 5 PM). Each spring, tiptoe through a sea of tulips (see our Biltmore Blooms Guide).
8. Italian Gardens: The reflecting pools full of lily pads and other exotic blooms set a wonderful tone for an early summer evening proposal. Nearby, wisteria is in full bloom under the Pergola next to the South Terrace. Take a garden tour.
9. Conservatory: Find a tropical wonderland year-round inside the Conservatory - including many exotic orchids. It's located adjacent to the Walled Garden. Again, expect the most people during the middle of the day. Read more about it.
10. Dinner: Pop the question during a candlelight dinner at the Bistro at the Winery or the Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore. The chefs create incredible meals using fresh ingredients grown on the estate. Ask your server to help with the special moment, including bringing out Biltmore sparkling wine for a toast.
11. Hotel Luxury: Stay overnight on the estate for a very memorable and romantic getaway. While gazing at the mountain view from your rocking chairs on verandah at the Inn on Biltmore Estate, pop the question during a romantic getaway to this four diamond hotel with exquisite dining and a spa.
12: Christmas at Biltmore: The most enchanting time of the year is also the busiest, but you can still find plenty of private spots. The 55-foot tree in front is surrounded by many other trees, creating a magical forest of lights each evening. Read more about Christmas at Biltmore and the candlelight evening tours.
Go to our Biltmore Insider's Guide to plan your trip and see more things to do.
