American Royalty’s Approach to Pampering

Bucket lists; I had never given thought to a list of things I wanted to do before I die because frankly I have not reached a point in life that I consider myself not actively living every day to its fullest potential. My mother however has made a list of her childhood desired designations and we, as a family, are bringing some of those dreams to fruition. One of the places on my mother’s list was the Biltmore Estate one of the early estates of the Vanderbilt family during the rail road era. This beautiful 8,000 acre property is home of the most Brilliant Christmas tree lighting in North America. Explore George Vanderbilt’s extraordinary home, beautiful gardens, and Antler Hill Village & Winery, nestled in the mountains of Asheville, NC. A fifty foot live Christmas tree is cut into pieces and then reassembled in the great hall of the manner every year. My family spent thanksgiving 2011 viewing the same lush landscape that presidents and great world leaders frequent. These luxury accommodations make a young girl feel like 18’Th century royalty; and what are Vanderbilt if not American royalty. When you wake you find Lush grounds filled with adventure. Bow hunting classes and Fly fishing and Special Christmas tours of the Grounds. As a family we rode horse back to the top of one of the larger hills on property and had lunch waiting at the top with a beautiful view of the estate. I felt stately, almost as if some of the elegance and sophistication taught me something and will stay with me ceaselessly.

After touring the main house of a woman who was waited on, hand and foot, I was in the mood for some pampering myself. While the spa is not located within the estate its self, It is in the luxury Inn located on the estate grounds. On the second floor above the library with a single glass pained door as an entrance, you would miss it if you were not looking for it, I found the spa. While not as spacious as the gorgeous Biltmore Estate, It was quaint. Because most do not frequent the Biltmore to be pampered but rather to see how the other half lived in the 1800’s, I did not expect to be dazzled because I was already so smitten with the whole experience. There was a very small waiting area, more like a broom closet really with hard wooden benches covered with silk pillows. When I entered I was not awed. The therapist quickly came for me and led me through a narrow hallway to a room with no view, or shower, or tub. I was not going to complain because, it looked to me like the facility was lacking so there was no other option for a soothing ambiance. I will say the saving grace of the spa was its use of fine product. When being pampered all I can really ask for is the thoughtful choice of botanicals when considering my skin. The hotel staff however rose above the job obligation to show us a fantastic time while we visited. I have nothing but high reviews for the lavishness that is the Biltmore Inn.

Signing off,

XX Porcelain Girl