Day 11: Maintenance

Our bikes have given so much, it’s time to give back. With just over 2000 miles traveled thus far, we scheduled an oil change for today. Afterwards we’re going to tour the Biltmore, which is only a few miles down the road from MR Motorcycles. Cool.

The Biltmore House.

The Biltmore House belonged to George  Vanderbilt, grandson to the wealthy railroad and shipping magnate, Cornelius Vanderbilt. It was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted. Construction of the 250 room estate began in 1889, and continued well after George moved in in 1895. Today the Biltmore Estate encompasses nearly 8000 acres. Enough history from me.

The enchanted forest.

The Biltmore Estate is surrounded by acres of forests and farmland. Riding from the visitor’s center to the house is like stepping into the enchanted forest of every fairy tale. Bamboo groves, oak, pine, gardens, ponds, streams and fields line the roadway. Everything is living and breathing; it’s gorgeous.

From the gardens.

Flowers of every shape and color.

Pink.

Purple.

We weren’t allowed to take photos while touring the interior of the Biltmore House, but it was fascinating to see its history of modern convenience. The house included an indoor pool with underwater lighting, a bowling alley, 43 bathrooms, and a library with 10,000 books. George Vanderbilt was an intellect who preferred art and travel over commerce. Rooms were filled with paintings, tapestries, sculptures and intricate furniture.

Cherub sculpture.

Gargoyle.

Lion.

The Biltmore Estate includes a winery and a working farm.

River Bend Farm.

I've had some experience with these.

Chicken or poodle?

Jeff and me in the gardens.

View from behind.

We spent most of the day at Biltmore touring the house, winery, farm and forest.

Jeff admiring my penny collection (and gold doubloon) at the winery during supper.

Oh, there’s been a change in plans. Instead of continuing east to Charlottesville, VA tomorrow, we’re heading west to Gatlinburg, TN (home of Dollywood).