Biltmore Estate offers stress relief

By Kristen Grimes
Staff Writer

April is a busy month for college students. The semester is almost over, the weather is turning warm and the last hint of cabin fever can still be seen on rainy days. If a quick weekend trip is in the forecast to get rid of end-of-semester stress, Biltmore Estate is the place to be.

From April 3 to May 2, Biltmore Estate hosts its annual Festival of Flowers. This special event is characterized by 8,000 acres of flowers. From tulips and azaleas to dogwoods and cherry trees, the Festival of Flowers has foliage that all can enjoy.

Inside the house, the flowers are arranged in beautiful centerpieces and topiaries. From the inside out, it is an understatement to say that Biltmore Estate is alive with spectacular flowers.

Biltmore Estate recommends visiting on the weekends. During this time the gardens are full of music, dancers and other performers.

The gardens are not the only exciting thing to see while at Biltmore Estate. Be sure to head over to the winery for a tour of the vineyards. After that, enjoy wine tasting and cooking demonstrations. Students are guaranteed to leave feeling refreshed and recharged for finals.

Tickets for a self-guided tour of Biltmore Estate and the Festival of Flowers are $39 for adults and $19.50 for children ages 6 to 16. Children under 5 are free.
Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is approximately 240 miles from Pembroke.