Autumn at Biltmore
Autumn at Biltmore
The crisp mountain air greeted Anna and her eight-year-old son, Ethan, as they walked hand-in-hand along the winding paths of the Biltmore Estate. The vibrant hues of autumn leaves painted the landscape in fiery reds, golden yellows, and warm oranges. Each step they took on the gravel path was accompanied by the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot.
“Mom, look at that tree!” Ethan exclaimed, pointing to a massive oak draped in vibrant crimson leaves.
Anna smiled. “Isn’t it beautiful? Just like a painting.”
The two paused to admire the towering tree. Ethan, filled with energy, ran ahead, kicking up a flurry of fallen leaves. Anna breathed deeply, savoring the scent of the season: apples, spice, and the faint hint of fresh cider carried on the breeze from the estate’s orchards.
As they approached the grand house, Ethan turned back to his mom, his cheeks rosy from the chill. “Do you smell that? It’s like cinnamon apples!”
“That’s the cider,” Anna said. “It’s coming from the café by the orchard. We’ll stop for some in a little bit.”
They continued along the estate grounds, marveling at the towering architecture of the Biltmore House and the sprawling gardens now draped in autumn’s embrace. Ethan paused every now and then to scoop up a handful of leaves and toss them into the air, giggling as they fluttered down like confetti.
“Listen,” Anna said, crouching beside him. The two closed their eyes, the gentle rustle of the leaves in the breeze mingling with the distant hum of voices from other visitors.
“It sounds like the trees are talking,” Ethan whispered.
“Maybe they are,” Anna replied, pulling him into a hug.
Later, with steaming cups of hot cider warming their hands, they sat on a stone bench overlooking the estate’s vineyard. Ethan leaned against Anna, content.
“Mom, this is the best day ever,” he said, his voice soft but filled with wonder.
Anna kissed the top of his head. “I think so, too.”
As the sun began to set, casting golden light across the landscape, the mother and son sat together, the scent of Asheville’s autumn leaves filling the air, creating a memory neither would ever forget.