Weekend Getaway: Asheville

This last weekend was my fall break from University. My very last one. I can only say it was a much needed break and that Thanksgiving cannot come fast enough. But since South Carolina doesn't have much of a fall most years (though this year has been pretty nice), I snuck home and then went up to Asheville with my mom.

Our trip was mostly just to see the leaves changing, hang out in the mountains, and hit some of our favorite spots in the area. With having such a wet summer, the leaves weren't quite to their peak color which we figured we'd be hitting perfectly. Hoever there was a lot of color and it wasn't disappointing. 

We dropped by the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the United States, built and still owned by the Vanderbilts. For years we were pass holders because it was so much cheaper to do when we went up several times a year, but not so much now that my parents travel with work and I'm busy with school. We've seen it in every season, but fall is one of my favorites.

A new activity mom and I tried was the Biltmore Bubbly Tour. The Biltmore Estate is a very large regional wine producer and now produces 6 types of sparkling wine. Our tour took us through the process of creating the sparkling wine, which takes place entirely in the bottle in which it will be distributed, unlike wine which spends time in barrels. We also got to see the machine that corks the bottle and depressurized it. The cage over the cork is attached with 3 turns, so any time you are opening a bottle, it takes 6 half turns and then you're free to enjoy.

We forgoed visiting the house, and decided to just walk around the gardens and grounds.

For food this trip, our tour guide recommended Chestnut, a contemporary American restaurant with a constantly changing menu. I had lobster bisque that was to die for and thai curry mussels. Mom had a beet and goat cheese salad and a roasted chicken with green beans, risotto and a delightful orange sauce. We tried several of their house wines and were able to get a free dessert by sharing a picture of our meal on social media. We chose a chocolate mousse cake and each had a glass of Frangelico.

We also ate lunch at The Grove Park Inn. This is a giant hotel built entirely out of giant stones on the outside. It offers one of the most amazing views over Asheville and we enjoyed lunch on the terrace. I had their crab cake burger with duck fat fries and mom had their house burger. I also tried their centennial pale ale as they are celebrating 100 years. Mom had the Highland Octoberfest. Both were very nice.

A short trip, but a nice long weekend. Unless any other small trips come up, I'll see you next time in Bonaire!