Biltmore Stories

Biltmore is more than a magnificent chateau in a picturesque mountain setting. It is the spirit of the people who envisioned its splendor and then lived, worked, played, and entertained here. These are their stories.

How Did Our Christmas Tradition Begin?

Although George Vanderbilt moved into Biltmore House in October 1895, the house did not officially open to guests until Christmas Eve of that year. Great efforts were made to ensure all (or most!) would be ready by this special day. Mr. Vanderbilt was still a bachelor during the first Biltmore Christmas and his mother, Maria Louisa, presided as hostess.
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George Vanderbilt

He was a voracious reader of books, a husband, a father, a visionary, and a gracious host who took delight in sharing the beauty of his spectacular estate with his guests. Come experience George Vanderbilt's renowned spirit of hospitality. It's still alive and well at Biltmore.
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Edith Vanderbilt

She was a strong and capable woman in an age when neither quality was expected of a genteel lady. Widowed at a young age, Edith Vanderbilt steadfastly managed Biltmore, nurturing it to become a unique and fascinating destination for your family, as you seek a glimpse into a storied past.
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Cornelia Vanderbilt

As the only child of George and Edith Vanderbilt, Cornelia Vanderbilt was the princess of a 250-room castle in an 8,000-acre kingdom. Today, you can explore the wonders she knew.
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