Not to get too hifalutin' but if you've ever studied philosophy you know the concept of the "Platonic Ideal". Plato felt that human beings have an idea in their minds of the perfect form each object takes so that they're able to recognize that object in real life. So they imagine, say, the perfect tree for the word "tree," and then can recognize one even if it's missing a few limbs or devoid of leaves.
Asheville
Travel Guide
Asheville› Hotel
Cedar Crest Inn
674 Biltmore Ave.
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Near the Biltmore Estate
Phone
800/252-0310
Prices
Romeo and Juliet Room, The Page Room $155 Sun –Thur $175 weekends and Oct–Dec; The Celebration Room $165 Sun–Thurs, $185 weekends and Oct –Dec; William Breese Room $175 Sun–Thurs, $200 weekends and Oct–Dec; the Tower Room $180 Sun–Thurs, $199 weekends and Oct–Dec; the Study Room, Eastlake Room $199 from Sun–Thurs, $225 weekends and Oct–Dec; The Serenity Suite and the Queen Anne Room $225 Sun–Thurs and Oct–Dec.
Units
16
Amenities
Bar/lounge, pets allowed, free breakfast, free Wi–Fi
Web site
Cedar Crest Inn
Book a Room Now

This is a long way of saying that the Cedar Crest Inn comes closer to the Platonic Ideal of a B&B than any other B&B I've ever visited. Its exterior is bright pink (of course! B&B's should always be pink!). And its interior is a awash in Victoriana, from the elaborately paneled walls, to the antique furnishings and vibrantly over-the-top flowered wall papers. But being the ideal, it doesn't sacrifice comforts to aesthetics: The mattresses are modern and top-quality and there's extra heating devices in the rooms for those cold months. Service is stellar, too, from the warm welcome to such niceties as the free wine set out each evening in the parlor. Some grouse that the breakfasts are too simple but we found them good and filling.
The final argument that it would be nigh impossible to improve on the Cedar Crest? Its location is pretty near perfect, within walking distance of the Biltmore Estate and only a mile's drive from downtown.
Two notes: Along with the main house are two, multi-bedded unattached houses that are perfect for groups. Children under 10 are not accepted.
Map
674 Biltmore Ave. AshevilleNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.