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The iconic Biltmore Estate in Asheville will reopen ahead of the holidays following Hurricane Helene

The iconic Biltmore Estate in Asheville will reopen ahead of the holidays following Hurricane Helene

As communities continue to rebuild following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, an iconic property in Asheville, North Carolina has announced its plans to reopen in time for the holiday season.

Over the weekend, the historic Biltmore Estate announced its intention to reopen on Saturday, November 2, after temporarily closing due to the storm's impact.

The family-run, 8,000-acre estate has pursued a long-standing mission of conservation through self-sufficiency since opening in 1895, which is borne out by the resilience demonstrated by Helene.

“We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Biltmore President and CEO Bill Cecil Jr. said in an emailed statement to ABC News. “As the recovery unfolds, the return of guests to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region's economy to help employees, local businesses and friends in the area. Together we can help restore the vibrancy of Asheville and its surrounding areas.”

PHOTO: Storm Helene causes massive flooding in western North Carolina

A storm damaged a sign at Biltmore Village following Hurricane Helene on September 28, 2024 in Asheville, NC

Sean Rayford/Getty Images

Crews have been working to repair damaged areas around Biltmore and are making preparations to welcome guests back in time for the holiday season, the property's announcement said.

“When it opens on November 2nd, Biltmore will be fully decorated for the holiday season and the property’s attractions and restaurants will be open. The property’s accommodations will welcome overnight guests,” the team said.

As cleanup continues in wooded areas and some roads on the property, hiking trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice.

“While this reopening represents a step forward, the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene are still being felt throughout the Asheville community. Many businesses and roads in the Asheville area have reopened while some areas work to recover,” the announcement said. “Guests are advised to plan for the possibility that they may need to use alternative routes when traveling to Biltmore.”

The Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America, built by George Vanderbilt between 1889 and 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina

George Rose/Getty Images

Biltmore has more information about its support for the broader community during the ongoing recovery and how others can help on its website.

Helene has been described as the deadliest storm in North Carolina history. At the time of publication, 26 people are still missing weeks after the storm.

Helene made landfall in Florida on September 26 as a Category 4 hurricane, devastating much of the Southeast up to Virginia and killing at least 250 people. North Carolina was hit particularly hard, recording 95 deaths from Helene alone.

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