Historic Biltmore Estate Will Reopen in Time for Christmas Season After Hurricane Helene Flooding and Damage

America's largest home, the Biltmore Estate, will reopen next month after suffering flooding and damage from Hurricane Helene.

The historic landmark in Ashville, N.C. announced on social media Sunday, Oct. 20, that it will open its doors to “celebrate the joy of the holiday season together” starting on Nov. 2.

“For more than 125 years, Biltmore has been a witness to the resilience of this community,” began a statement shared on the official Instagram account of the home, which appeared in the hit Hallmark movie, A Biltmore Christmas, last year.

“The compassion and resolve of our region have been rising every day from beneath the weight of this storm. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us.”

“Welcoming guests back to the estate provides critical support to our community, and we hope to welcome you very soon,” the post continued.

Asheville, a city in Western North Carolina, was one of the areas hit the hardest by Hurricane Helene in late September.

The estate, which was built by George Vanderbilt and completed in 1895, announced in an Oct. 3 Instagram post that its grounds were temporarily closed as employees and volunteers assessed the damage caused by the catastrophic storm. 

While the entrance of the estate and other areas experienced “significant” flooding and damage, it said Biltmore House itself was safe: "Biltmore House, Conservatory, winery, gardens, and our hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.”

However, the statement noted, “In forested areas, which is a large portion of the estate, wind damage is extensive to grounds and some structures. Crews have been working tirelessly to clear roads so we can begin repairs."

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Biltmore Estate features 250 rooms, along with breathtaking gardens and grounds designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted on its 8,000 acres.

Helene hit Florida as a category 4 hurricane on Sept. 26, then creating a path of destruction through five other states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia. 

At least 95 storm-related deaths have been recorded in North Carolina. On Oct. 15, N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper said at least 81 people remained missing in the state as the clean-up from the hurricane continued.