OK, we’re a bit tired of winter’s black and white, and now dirty gray. Our recent Florida escape just made us more eager to smell the flowers, and roses and freshness of nature.

Last summer… we had the extreme satisfaction of doing just that, at the Biltmore Estate, where among its grandeur, – multiple gardens stretch the envelope of sensuous satisfaction for that very desire we all crave,* particularly after an especially harsh winter (*…except maybe those with allergies!) 

Here are some images from within its Italian Garden.

Containing three ponds, and situated just left and in front of the main mansion, one can’t help but be mesmerized by the astonishing colors and delicate forms in and around the aqueous habitats.

Situated on 120,000 acres, there are remarkable gardens, specifically engineered forests, ponds and features all accessible by walking trails, and maintained to the ideals set in the late 1800’s by world-famous designer Frederick Law Olmsted (think NYC’s “Central Park.”) There is also a world-class winery for tasting and exploration, and tours of the estates themselves.

The Biltmore Estate and Gardens is located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, near Asheville, North Carolina.

Click on the images for full resolution, and as usual, comments are always encouraged. 

Thanks for viewing