Holiday Inn Asheville - Biltmore East

The Holiday Inn Asheville - Biltmore East occupies an unremarkable four-story building that is almost camouflaged by its beautifully landscaped natural setting. Its lobby resembles the interior of a cozy mountain lodge, thanks to its natural wood floors, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and an oversized leather sofa and armchairs arranged next to a stone fireplace. The property’s wilderness theme is evident in the many wood carvings of bears and pine trees, as well as framed prints of various plants and animals. There’s even a scenic walking trail at the rear of the property which takes hikers through a wooded area. Off the lobby is the Woodfire Bar and Grille, which is a popular spot for breakfasts and a drink at night. In 2017, rooms exchanged the homey, traditional look for a contemporary design consisting of clean-lined wood furniture, geometric and houndstooth patterns, and modern art. Free coffee, Wi-Fi and breakfast for kids are excellent perks, making this already affordable property a great value. The hotel is pet-friendly, with certain floors reserved for those traveling with their furry friends. Guests here are a mix of couples and families on vacation, plus some business travelers -- many using the on-site conference spaces.

Though the Holiday Inn Asheville - Biltmore East is located outside of downtown Asheville, the hotel’s close proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Interstate 40 keeps sights within easy reach. There are other hotels, gas stations, and some restaurants in the immediate vicinity, as well as several attractions a short drive away. Downtown Asheville is an 11-minute drive away, while the stunning Biltmore Estate is nine minutes. Asheville Mall can be reached in eight minutes by car; Black Mountain in 11 minutes; and six minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center. Asheville Regional Airport is a 20- to 25-minute drive away.

Fully renovated in 2017, the 111 rooms here are contemporary, spacious, and well-equipped. Expect modern wood furniture in natural or gray hues, beige walls with multiple pieces of modern art, and neutral linens, plus rolling orange-yellow leather desk chairs. Pops of fun geometric prints include brown carpeting with orange triangles, chevron headboards, and houndstooth wood furniture coverings. The overall effect is stylish and pleasant. Rooms are well-equipped with sofa beds, desks, ample USB ports and electric sockets, free Wi-Fi, and big flat-screen TVs with HBO, plus microwaves, mini-fridges, and Keurig coffeemakers with free pods. On the downside, bathrooms are somewhat cramped. Most have shower/tub combos, though some have walk-in showers. Free toiletries, make-up remover wipes, and hairdryers are provided. Some rooms have gorgeous views of the nearby mountain landscape.Note that the entire property is non-smoking, and travelers with pets are assigned to the first floor. 

Although only free for kids (with paying adult), many travelers opt to eat breakfast on-site. Woodfire Bar and Grille offers both a full buffet with hot and cold items, and a la carte dishes such as omelets and waffles. Its dinner menu consists of tasty American fare such as wings, steak, and fish. A heated outdoor pool has a deep end and is open from April to mid-October. It's surrounded by several loungers, a few tables and chairs, and a pleasant gazebo that provides shade. The walking trail at the rear of the property goes through a scenic wooded area and is popular with dog walkers. Pets are allowed for a fee. The fitness center is open 24/7, but it's tiny and has only three cardio machines and free weights. A business center has printing services, plus there are meeting spaces with audiovisual equipment for events like seminars, lectures, and receptions, accommodating up to 100 persons. A small snack and souvenir shop is close to the front desk, and coin-operated laundry machines are available. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel.