Afternoon arrival at Lake Lure Inn in Western North Carolina, near Asheville.  This luxury hotel built in 1927 serves as your headquarters for a two night stay.  Once registered you enjoy a tour of the hotel.  Recently restored to its full splendor, it is home to a unique collection of art and antiques.  You also enjoy a Sunset Cruise where your skipper guides you past local attractions and landmarks including locations used in filming ‘Dirty Dancing.’  This is followed by dinner in the Veranda Restaurant located across the beach. (D)

Today begins with a large hot breakfast at the Inn.  Visit the Biltmore Estate and tour America’s largest home.  This 250 room French Chateau is a real wonder.  Explore the acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed New York’s Central Park.  Lunch is at the Deerpark Restaurant, featuring an endless buffet of Southern style dishes and Appalachian specialties.

At the Biltmore Winery you delight in free wine tastings and a redesigned self-guided tour to learn how we make award-winning wines.  Next, visit the new Antler Hill Village where you’ll experience more of Biltmore’s story.  After a day in the home of one America’s Wealthiest Men you return to Lake Lure.  Dinner is on your own. (B,L)

Following another marvelous breakfast you load your coach and visit nearby Chimney Rock Park.  Here you take the elevator to the Top of the Rock, see Hickory Nut Falls and the Moonshiners Cave before starting your trip home.  It’s a morning with nature, a breath of fresh air in the mountains and an incredible view you’ll remember for a lifetime. (B)