The Journey - Day 9 (Down Day)

Still in Asheville we decided today would be a no ride day with the exception of dropping the bikes off to have the oil changed. Once we had them in the service shop we took a walk over to do some Yammy shopping. Great service again (can't say enough about how polite and friendly everyone here is)! Travis, our sales guy helped us with all of our inquiries as did Scott and Fred. When we finished purchasing our FroggToggs, boots and new gloves they offered to hold them until we came to pick up the bikes. When we asked if they could call us a cab to go to the Biltmore Estate, Travis offered to drive us over in his car (mini Coopers are way cool).

I think I took more pictures today than I did all week.....OMG, this place is unbelievable, the largest private residence in the US......250 rooms, 34 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, a heated indoor pool, bowling alley, exercise room, fire alarm system, electricity and refrigeration...this may not seem like a big deal except it took 6 years to build and was officially opened to guests and family on Christmas Eve in 1895. Yup 1895.....and the gardens are absolutely beautiful, designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead...Olmstead was also the architect of New York Central Park but always considered the Biltmore Estate to be his crowning glory and finest achievement. Needless to say I could go on for hours but suffice to say we are seriously considering coming back during the Christmas season to see it decorated. Apparently there is nothing like it and I am sure that this would be the case..the people here are immensely proud of the Biltmore and what it has meant to their history as well as to their economy since being open to the public in 1930.

Well, tonight we pack all our clean clothes and various trinkets and other purchases for our trip north. Next destination is the Luray Caverns near the top of Skyline Drive. Two days ride but can't wait!