Historic Biltmore Estate temporarily closes after damage, significant flooding due to Helene

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) - As much of western North Carolina continues to recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene, the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville is no exception.

On Thursday, the estate said damage was spread across buildings and the grounds of the 8,000-acre property.

Property representatives said the iconic 175,000-square-foot home sustained minimal to no damage as did the winery, conservatory, hotels and gardens.

However, Biltmore’s entrance, farm and other buildings experienced significant flooding and subsequent damage.

Sadly, some animals on the property also died, but the estate said the vast majority of them are safe and have been accounted for.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of concern for our region as communities face the aftermath of this storm,” a spokesperson for the estate shared. “As with all of our neighbors who experienced the effects of Helene, we are working on our plans for a swift recovery and look forward to welcoming our guests to this region as soon as it is safe to do so.”

According to the estate, it will be closed to guests until at least Oct. 15.

Representatives said some of the roads are being cleared so repairs can begin at the estate.

Information regarding employees, refunds, cancellations, community resources and more can be found here.

Buncombe County, which is home to the Biltmore Estate, was one of the hardest hit by Helene.

County officials have reported dozens of fatalities as the death toll across the southeast has climbed over 200.

Copyright 2024 WBTV via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.