LAKE LIVING & HITTING THE LINKS

Escape to the serene beauty of Western North Carolina's lakefront communities, where every day feels like a vacation. Embrace a lifestyle of relaxation and recreation amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Tee off on lush landscapes and rolling hills, with golf courses offering challenges for players of all skill levels. Discover the perfect blend of leisure and luxury – where every swing and sunset creates unforgettable memories.

Bryson City Area | Fontana Lake

Fontana Lake is the largest lake in Western North Carolina and is formed by the highest dam east of the Rockies, coming in at 480-ft tall. The lake itself is rich with history and local lore, check out our related articles “The Road to Nowehere,” “What Lies Beneath Fontana Lake,” and “Decoration Day at Cable Cemetery.” Throughout time, this beautiful lake has offered the best of aquatic sports and recreation for residents and visitors.

While 90% of the 238-mile shoreline is protected by Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Nantahala National Forest, there are opportunities to live on or near the water. Featured communities around the lake include Fontana Lake Estates, a gated community located on a 1300-acre peninsula at the east end.

Rockledge is another housing development with easy access to Fontana Lake as well as the Nantahala River. Rockledge residents share the mountain with the Nantahala Outdoor Recreation Center and enjoy sweeping views of the lake from the private Rockledge Lodge.

Lake Santeetlah

Travel+Leisure magazine ranked Lake Santeetlah one of the "11 Most Beautiful Lakes in the US,” and we can see why. Encased by 76 miles of forested shoreline, these waters provide recreants a myriad of outdoor adventure opportunities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to hiking and fishing.

The Town of Lake Santeetlah is located on a peninsula and has approximately 200 private homes. Residents not only enjoy all the amenities of lake living, but also have easy access to 250 miles of hiking trails in the Cheoah District of the Nantahala National Forest. Whether seeking solace or seeking thrills, Lake Santeetlah offers an escape like no other.

Topton | Nantahala Lake Community

With crystal clear waters shimmering at 3,012 feet, Nantahala Lake is the second highest lake east of the Mississippi. Surrounded by 29 miles of shoreline, the waters offer everything from swimming, to boating and fishing. The recreation doesn’t end there though, as the lake feeds into the Nantahala River – one of the most renowned white-water rafting, kayaking and flyfishing destinations.

Click here to dive into all that the Nantahala Lake Community has to offer and if you are interested in calling this special place home then contact one of our local estate experts today!

Lake Glenville

Visit Website | Properties for Sale Glenville Lake has been featured as one of the Top 10 Lakes in North Carolina. The lake has 26-miles of shoreline, 3 waterfalls and 7 islands. It is the largest lake in Jackson County and a destination for bass fisherman. If you are planning to explore the area, be sure to hike up High Falls, swim at Pines Recreation Area and enjoy a waterfall cruise.

Lake Junaluska

Visit Website | Properties for Sale Lake Junaluska spans 200 acres and is open for all to explore and renew the soul, mind, and body. Things to do include favorite water sports like kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding, as well as the Lake Walking Trail and Rose Walk, taking a boat tour, strolling through the Corneille Bryan Native Garden, and enjoying spectacular views at Inspiration Point!

Hayesville | Chatuge Lake

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chatuge Lake invites you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature's embrace. This manmade reservoir covers 7,000 acres, has 130 miles of shoreline, and dips past our southern border into Georgia. Attractions include the Chatuge Dam Trail, Jack Rabbit Trailhead, Aqua Tiki – Party Boats with Island Vibes and Margarita Jack’s Marina & RV.

Lake Toxaway

Visit Website | Properties for Sale Lake Toxaway is the second largest private lake in North Carolina, spanning 640 acres with 14-miles of accessible shoreline. Lake Toxaway Estates is comprised of approximately 1,100 home sites. Residents enjoy exclusive access to the lake and marina, in addition to membership at the Lake Toxaway Country Club. Community amenities include a playground, soccer field, The Meadow open space, and The Pavilion where music events are held in summer.

Connestee Falls

Connestee Falls in Brevard is home to 4 lakes surrounded by 3,900 acres of pristine forested land in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. The community offers an array of resort amenities. The scenic Donald Cobb 18-hole Golf course adjoins the Clubhouse/Restaurant and golfer's grill. Click here to view a community map.

Contact our local real estate expert and resident, Jan Newsome, for more information about luxury living in Connestee Falls!

Additional WNC Mountain Lake Communities

Here are a few more lake living opportunities to explore in the mountains of Western North Carolina!

• Bear Creek Lake: Learn More | Properties for Sale

• Cedar Cliff Lake: Learn More | Properties for Sale

• Wolf Creek Lake: Learn More | Properties for Sale

MOUNTAIN GREENS FEATURED WNC GOLF ESCAPES

Summer fun continues from the blue waters of our mountain lakes to the lush and manicured greens of our world-class golf courses. Hit the links and immerse yourself in pristine fairways, challenging courses, and panoramic views that inspire every swing.

• Asheville: The Golf Course at The Omni Grove Park Inn (Public)

• Brevard: Connestee Falls Donald Cobb Golf Course (Semi-Private)

• Canton: Springdale Resort (Public)

• Cashiers: Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club (Private)

• Cashiers: Wade Hampton Golf Club (Private)

• Fletcher: Broadmoor (Public)

• Franklin: Golf Course (Public)

• Hayesville: Mountain Harbour Golf (Public)

• Hayesville: Chatuge Shores Golf (Semi-Private)

• Hendersonville: Commings Cove (Public)

• Highlands: Old Edwards Club (Semi-Private)

• Lake Junaluska: Golf Course (Public)

• Maggie Valley: Golf Club (Semi-Private)

• Sylva: Balsam Mountain Preserve (Private)

• Tuckasegee: Bear Lake Reserve Golf Club (Public)

• Whittier: Sequoyah National Golf Club (Public)

• Whittier: Smoky Mountain Country Club (Semi-Private)