A number of couples, concerned by the Zika virus to our south and the terror attacks in Europe, have asked for ideas on romantic honeymoon and wedding spots close to home in the US.  If they’ve previously had their heart set on a destination, I do caution couples not to fight their instincts and throw away their dream honeymoon or wedding plans, because anything can happen anywhere at any time. 

My best advice is to plan ahead and take reasonable precautions wherever you choose to celebrate your honeymoon or nuptials.

That said, there are a number of beautiful and romantic US locales for that dream wedding or honeymoon. One of my favorite US wedding and honeymoon settings is the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Imagine exchanging vows in one of the estate’s scenic gardens, or on a hilltop overlooking the estate with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or in the elegant Lioncrest ballroom with wrought iron chandeliers and a majestic vaulted ceiling.

​Imagine exchanging vows in one of the estate’s scenic gardens, or on a hilltop overlooking the estate with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or in the elegant Lioncrest ballroom with wrought iron chandeliers and a majestic vaulted ceiling.

No matter the size of your wedding party, this venue has a variety of marvelous wedding settings to suit your vision.

There are also a variety of accommodations and activities on the estate. You can choose to stay at the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, the Inn on Biltmore Estate, or the Cottage on Biltmore Estate.  

In addition to touring the estate, the grounds, and the gardens, you should explore Antler Hill Village and the Biltmore Winery.  Antler Hill Village offers biking, hiking, trail rides and a number of other outdoor activities. You can also get lessons on shooting sporting clays and fly fishing on the estate. 

Touring the winery you can enjoy complimentary wine tastings or pay for a specialty tour. The Red Wine & Chocolate tour is near and dear to my heart and I know I’m not alone!

For a memorably romantic evening honeymooners will be enchanted by both the rich cuisine and the epic views at the Biltmore Estate Dining Room.

But don’t make this journey without venturing into Asheville.  This eclectic town is what makes this venue one of my favorites in the US. Quirky boutiques, book stores, antique shops, museums and art galleries abound in this vibrant town.  

Take a stroll through downtown Asheville along Asheville’s Urban Trail. Thirty trail stops with public sculpture bring Asheville’s history to life. 

And whether you’re there in spring, summer or fall you’re bound to happen upon a drum circle or festival celebrating anything from orchids, cheese and chocolates to art, music and the Appalachian Trail.

This town is also a real culinary star with farm to table dining at its heart. You’ll find a huge variety of restaurants, bars and cafes for all tastes from Mediterranean, Indian and Thai to moonshine cocktails, soul food, and wine bars.  And there are over 15 wineries in the mountains and foothills near the city.

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There’s just so much to do in this area from scenic drives along the Blue Ridge parkway, to hiking mountains, trails and waterfalls, to shopping, street entertainment and festivals, I’m confident honeymoon couples or wedding parties and their guests will make lasting memories on their stay.

So on the #WeddingWednesday add #Asheville to your potential venues for a #destinationwedding or #honeymoon.