Gardens NC Central Mountains (1)

Lovingly maintained by a local garden club, this quaint, restful garden has become virtually surrounded by the growth of the University of North Carolina - Asheville. There are about ten acres, much of which has been landscaped into gardens to display native flora in their natural settings. Wide walks, mostly wheelchair negotiable, range throughout the gardens. There are even benches here and there for the weary. The visitors' center at the parking lot is staffed with very helpful volunteers. Admission is FREE but donations are gratefully accepted. Open daily during daylight hours. 151 Weaver Blvd (between Merrimon Ave and Broadway) next to the main entrance of University of North Carolina - Asheville. With the recent expansion of its parking lot, the Botanical Gardens is now able to accommodate tour buses. Reservations for guided tours for groups can be made by calling (828) 252-5190.

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Biltmore Estate: House, Gardens, Winery - Asheville

World famous estate of the Vanderbilts, we have heard about the house but rarely hear about the gardens. The greenhouse/gardens staff maintains the outdoor gardens year-round constantly exchanging plants between greenhouses and gardens so there is always a rewarding variety of beautiful blooming plants to see. Admission FEE. All tours are self-guided. Special "Behind the Scenes" and Rooftop guided tours are available at an additional cost. The Estate is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Thanksgiving and Christmas Days.

From I-40 exit 50 (US-25) go North on US-25 (down hill). At the bottom of the hill (just past Howard Johnsons) is a split (traffic light with left turn signal and 2 left turn lanes). Take the left split, two more blocks and the entrance is on your left. Postal address (not physical location): 1 North Pack Square, Asheville NC 28801. Phone: 274-6333 or 800-543-2961.

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North Carolina Arboretum - Asheville

Located in the eastern edge of the Bent Creek Research & Demonstration Forest, the North Carolina Arboretum is a series of gardens demonstrating the immense variety of local flora. Ranging from formal gardens to flora in their natural, wild state, many miles of trails allow leisurely viewing. Their very modern greenhouses, outfitted with the latest technology, are usually available for inspection. The information center is staffed with very knowledgeable staff members and volunteers. From I-26 exit 2 take NC-191 south to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn right and you'll see the entrance to the Arboretum Follow the signs to the visitors' center. Note: the posted speed limit is strictly enforced! For more information, phone 828-665-2492

see also: North Carolina State Arboretum - Raleigh NC (more formal settings)

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Richmond Hill Garden - Asheville

Started in 1991 as the finale to the restoration of the Queen Anne style Richmond Hill estate house (now an Inn), the Richmond Hill turn-of-the-century parterre garden is now a major horticultural attraction in Western North Carolina. The geometric patterns of delightful flora, accompanied by the tinkle of a real mountain stream and climaxed with a waterfall, make this garden well worth a visit. Incidentally, they have included a regulation croquet court that looks like it was carted straight from the 19th century. 8a - dusk. FREE. 87 Richmond Hill Drive, Asheville 28806. 800-545-9238; 704-252-7313.

For more information: http://www.richmondhillinn.com/gardens.htm

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