When George Washington Vanderbilt II decided to build the largest private residence in the United States, he employed the finest designers—Louis Comfort Tiffany for the lamps, Frederick Law Olmstead for the landscaping, and Richard Morris Hunt (the man who made the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty) as architect. That same superlative philosophy prevails at this inn, one of only two places on the estate where outsiders can stay—the other is an even pricier two-bedroom cottage, once the gardener's house. Like Biltmore, it has a Loire Valley chateau feel, down to the modern versions of French Empire furnishings in the guest rooms (swooping draperies, plumply upholstered armchairs that give a feel of true opulence against the demure ivory patterned wallpapers). The mattresses are so cushy no princess could ever feel a pea through one. If you can't afford to stay here, consider dropping by for high tea, a luxury treat. Note: Not all rooms have mountain views (many look at the woodlands), so if that's important to you, reserve early.