Grand Bohemian Hotel - Asheville, NC
The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Asheville, NC is a premiere luxury hotel reminiscint of European hunting lodges. The decor is one part sophistication, one part Bohemian, and one part art gallery.
I was in town because I had the pleasure of being invited to dinner at the Inn on the Biltmore Estate. It was truly a luxury dining experience. We had a 7 course meal that started with an amuse-bouche (my first time). The Dining Room at the Inn is an award-winning restaurant and reservations are only open to overnight guests. With nightly rates starting at $300, I was fortunate to be a guest of a guest for dinner which meant I got the benefit of enjoying an amazing meal, without having to splurge for a room on the estate.
Instead, I chose to stay at the Grand Bohemian Hotel located across the street from one of the entrances to Biltmore Estates. I chose this hotel one, for its location and two, because it's a Marriott property that's in the Autograph Collection. I got the unique hotel experience while also earning reward points.
Lobby Area
Lobby Area
When I arrived I was greeted by a gracious and efficient valet staff, then directed to the check-in desk where I was seated in a purple velvet chair and served a glass of champagne. These simple gestures really made a difference in helping me to slow down and transition from the role of traveler to pampered guest.
Courtyard Entrance
Check-In Desks
On my way to my room, and throughout my stay, I noticed many thoughtful details that reminded me that I'm in an upscale lodge. Starting with the many mounted animal heads inside and outside, along with the elevator interiors that were covered in animal hide with nailhead trim.
Valet Station
Red Stag Grill
Lobby Area
In the ballroom and adjacent terrace the coffered ceilings, lush fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and a grand piano create an effect that's both rustic and elegant at the same time.
Ballroom Lobby
Tyrolean Terrace
On each guest floor the hallways were covered with carefully curated artwork and dotted with alcoves that were filled with sculptures and busts.
Guest Floor Hallway
Guest Floor Hallway
Guest Floor Hallway
The attention to detail carried over into the guest rooms where the ceiling-high uphostered headboards and wall art gave the space a grand feel, while the antler lamps, light fixtures, inlays, and door pulls were another nod to the hunting lodge theme.
My room had a view of the McDonald’s drive-thru. It was barely noticeable since the restaurant’s building blended in with its surroundings. It did not in any way detract from the comfort of the room.
The bathroom was spacious and had a water closet -- a rarity in hotels. There was also a rainhead shower and a separate soaking tub which looked very inviting. To encourage bath use the hotel even provided bath salts and bubbles, although there is a service charge for using them.
Other in-room amenities included:
Two bathrobes, which I always appreciate. The quality was better than average
An in-room coffee station with a condiments kit, Starbucks coffee, and tea.
A modern mini bar stocked with wine and craft cocktail mixers.
A tabletop fridge that was tiny, but enough space to keep a few drinks cold.
I took full advantage of the prime location, perfect weather, and a late check-out by spending the following day exploring Biltmore Village which was in walking distance of the hotel. I decided on the Corner Kitchen for lunch. I enjoyed a window seat view and a tasty chicken salad sandwich.
Other nearby attractions include Biltmore Estates, and downtown Asheville. After checking out of the hotel I headed over to the River Arts district which was only a 10-minute drive away. It was a nice end cap to my very enjoyable stay at the Grand Bohemian.
