Biltmore estate helene damage: Historic 8,000-acre estate to re-open on this date

The re-opening date has been announced for Biltmore Estate after the deadly Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina in September, forcing the closure of one of the area's most popular tourist attractions. The Biltmore Estate will re-open on November 2, Saturday, the company said in an official press release.

The historic 8,000-acre estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains Biltmore estate sustained varying degrees of storm damage when Hurricane Helene ripped through western North Carolina, bringing unprecedented flooding and destructive winds to the area, reported Fox Business. Biltmore Estate is one of the largest and most historic attractions in Asheville and has been shut since Helene battered the western Carolinas as a tropical storm.

ALSO READ: How Helene became the near-perfect storm to bring widespread destruction across the South

Biltmore estate reopening date

"For more than 125 years, Biltmore has been a witness to the resilience of this community," Biltmore staff wrote on social media. "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."

The company said Biltmore plans to reopen November 2 in time to "celebrate the joy of the holiday season together" during its beloved Christmas at Biltmore holiday tradition.

"Welcoming guests back to the estate provides critical support to our community, and we hope to welcome you very soon," Biltmore staff said.

ALSO READ: Hurricane Helene: At least 100 dead with over $100 billion in damages expected; Here is all we know so far

Biltmore estate helene damage

Earlier, it was reported that portions of Biltmore's grounds and some of its buildings suffered significant flood damage due to devasting hurricane Helene. Biltmore House, the Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate's hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.

Built by George Vanderbilt in the 1890s, the Biltmore estate suffered extensive wind damage to its forested areas, which make up a large portion of the 8,000-acre grounds. Low-lying areas such as its farm sustained significant flooding and damage to buildings and a few of Biltmore’s animals also died during the storm.

ALSO READ: More than 60 dead from storm Helene as rescue, cleanup efforts grow

The reopening of Biltmore estate will mark the beginning of the holiday season for the estate employing approximately 2,400 people. While the Biltmore House, restaurants and other estate attractions will be open to visitors, the company is still cleaning up roads and wooded areas. The company said its Trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice.

“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a statement. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends.