by Robert Borges on July 22, 2019

Whether you’re a family of golfers looking to relocate to an established master-planned community in The Tar Heel State, or a links-loving retiree with an eye on North Carolina, the region certainly has its share of wonderful mountain golf communities you can call home.

Golf is abundant in and around the Asheville area, for example. But it’s also a place you can go beyond the greens, fairways, and majestic Blue Ridge Mountain peaks to explore a town of tremendous artistic and historical significance. 

Here’s a look at the top golf communities near Asheville, NC.

Balsam Mountain Preserve

Balsam Mountain Preserve NC mountain golf community

Located less than 40 minutes west of Asheville, this gated North Carolina golf community offers a mountain lifestyle complete with championship golf, outdoor recreation, and various social opportunities. The legendary Arnold Palmer designed the club’s course and says its undoubtedly one of his favorites: “mountainous terrain, spectacular views of surrounding mountains and beautiful streams are what make Balsam Mountain Preserve different from any course I have ever designed.” More than just a mountain golf community in North Carolina, active adult members here love the spacious Sports & Wellness Center, 34 miles of private hiking trails, a Nature Center, and an Equestrian Center with trails, peaks, and valleys to explore on horseback. 

Bear Lake Reserve 

Bear Lake Reserve NC mountain golf community

This golf community near Asheville, NC, is known for its dramatic mountain-to-lake landscape, providing picturesque views in nearly every direction from the water or the land. Centered around a 9-hole Nicklaus Design golf course, you’ll also be treated to tennis courts, parks, and miles of walking trails. Bear Lake Reserve is an escape from city life, where families and retirees alike make new memories and build lasting relationships in an inspiring natural setting. 

Connestee Falls

Connestee Falls NC mountain golf community

A mature master-planned North Carolina golf and resort community, Connestee Falls features an 18-hole golf course and other established lifestyle amenities that are fully owned and operated by the residents. Midway between Asheville, NC, and Greenville, SC, the 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas. Residents revel in the various lakes, waterfalls, woodlands, and hiking trails, while enjoying a full-service community clubhouse, tennis courts, swimming and fitness facilities, on-site dining and over 60 resident clubs and volunteer groups spanning a broad range of interests and activities. 

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure NC mountain golf community

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains less than an hour from Asheville, this 3,000-acre mountain golf retreat offers a variety of real estate options, perfect for a vacation home or full-time residence. Residents enjoy stunning lakefront views and access to two award-winning golf courses, along with a variety of resort-style amenities including pools, a spa, fitness center, hiking and biking trails, and a white sand beach.

The Cliffs at Walnut Cove

The Cliffs at Walnut Cove NC mountain golf community

Immerse yourself in a golfer's paradise at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, a private gated community minutes from Asheville, NC. This award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, consistently recognized by Golf Digest and Golfweek, unfolds amidst breathtaking mountain vistas protected by the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. Nicklaus himself described the course as akin to playing through a national forest, highlighting its natural beauty. Beyond the world-class course, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers a luxurious clubhouse and a variety of amenities, making it a haven for golfers seeking an unparalleled mountain golf experience.