Best Golf Communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (2025 Guide)
Discover North Carolina's most exclusive golf communities nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. From Donald Ross classics to Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio-designed masterpieces, these gated clubs offer more than just elite golf—they provide a complete lifestyle with world-class amenities, panoramic mountain views, and luxury real estate options. Whether you're focused on championship play, community atmosphere, or high-elevation living, this guide will help you explore the best golf communities across Western North Carolina.
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Why the Blue Ridge Mountains Are Ideal for Luxury Golf Living
The Blue Ridge region offers a unique mix of cool summer temperatures, challenging elevations, and lush forests—creating a dramatic natural setting for golf. The terrain makes course design difficult and expensive, which is why most top-tier clubs are found within private, luxury communities. These developments blend elite golf with privacy, fine homes, and curated lifestyle experiences.
If you're unsure where to start, our expert partners know each community intimately and can guide you based on your lifestyle preferences and real estate goals.
Comparison Table: Top Golf Communities in Western NC
Community | Designer | Price Range | Distance to Asheville | Elevation | Membership |
Biltmore Forest CC | Donald Ross | $1M–$10M+ | 10 min | ~2,200 ft | Invite-only |
Cliffs at Walnut Cove | Jack Nicklaus | $1.5M–$10M+ | 20 min | ~2,500 ft | Access to 7 Cliffs clubs |
Balsam Mountain Preserve | Arnold Palmer | $2M–$6M+ | 40 min | 3,700–4,400 ft | Private, gated |
Mountain Air CC | Scott Pool | $500K–$3M | 45 min | ~4,900 ft | Fly-in access |
Champion Hills | Tom Fazio | $500K–$3M | 50 min | ~2,700 ft | Member-owned |
Mountaintop | Tom Fazio | $2M–$10M | 90 min | ~3,500 ft | Private club |
Wade Hampton | Tom Fazio | $3M–$10M+ | 100 min | ~3,500 ft | Elite, ranked #1 NC |
Linville Ridge | Unknown | $175K–$5M+ | 90 min NE | High | Private |
High Hampton | Tom Fazio | $1M–$5M | 100 min | ~3,300 ft | Resort access |
Asheville-Area Golf Communities
Biltmore Forest Country Club
Just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, Biltmore Forest is one of the state's most historic private clubs. Designed by Donald Ross, its walkable course offers strategic play and beautiful surroundings.
Real Estate Snapshot
Home prices: $1M–$10M+
Community: Historic, walkable
Amenities: Pool, clubhouse, social calendar
Adjacent option: The Ramble (non-golf-facing luxury homes)
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
Located in Arden, this Jack Nicklaus Signature course is renowned for its maintenance and exclusivity. It’s the only regional course to host a PGA Tour event.
Real Estate Snapshot
Homes from $1.5M+
Golf lots start ~$1M
Includes membership to 6 additional Cliffs clubs nearby
Lifestyle: forested, peaceful, gated luxury
Top Golf Communities Outside Asheville
Balsam Mountain Preserve
Arnold Palmer’s mountain masterpiece sits at nearly 4,000 feet and offers incredible views, challenging play, and a commitment to nature.
Real Estate Snapshot
Homes from $2M–$6M+
New cottages overlook holes 9, 10, and 17
42 miles of trails, equestrian center, and spa-like amenities
Mountain Air Country Club
Perched at nearly 5,000 feet, Mountain Air is known for its fly-in runway and dramatic long-range vistas.
Real Estate Snapshot
Condos, homes, and lots up to $250K
Amenities: hiking, pool, fitness, and private airstrip
Champion Hills
Tom Fazio’s year-round golf community just south of Asheville features generous fairways and top-ranked course design.
Real Estate Snapshot
Homes: $500K–$3M
Focus on health and outdoor lifestyle
Member-owned and welcoming
Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club
This exclusive club near Cashiers offers Fazio golf, a full spa, and lake access for members.
Real Estate Snapshot
Wide range of luxury options (cabins to estates)
Features: comfort stations, dining, pool
Wade Hampton Golf Club
Consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., Wade Hampton combines pristine mountain golf with a rugged, forested atmosphere.
Real Estate Snapshot
High-elevation estates only
Secluded, elite, and timeless
Linville Ridge
Near Blowing Rock, Linville Ridge boasts dramatic green complexes and understated luxury.
Real Estate Snapshot
Homes from $175K–$5M+
Country club vibe with full amenities
High Hampton Resort
Seasonal golf, historic charm, and cozy real estate options define this Cashiers-area retreat.
Real Estate Snapshot
Cottages and homes from $1M–$5M
Pro shop, range house, and seasonal bentgrass course
How to Choose the Right Golf Community
Each community offers a unique blend of elevation, social atmosphere, exclusivity, and pricing. Use this guide to shortlist what matters most—then contact our local experts to match you with the right fit. From gated privacy to walkable fairways to private aviation access, there's a mountain club tailored to your lifestyle.
FAQs About NC Mountain Golf Communities
What is the most exclusive golf community in North Carolina? Wade Hampton Golf Club is often cited as the most elite, ranked #1 in NC and #26 nationally.
Which community is best for high-elevation golf? Mountain Air Country Club and Balsam Mountain Preserve offer courses above 4,000 feet.
Do any mountain communities offer access to multiple clubs? Yes. The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers membership to six additional regional clubs.
Are there gated communities with non-golf amenities? Yes. Most include pools, fitness centers, trails, dining, and some include equestrian or airstrip features.
Ready to Find Your Ideal Community?
Luxury-Communities.com specializes in helping buyers find the perfect home in private golf communities across the country. Use the form on this page to share what matters most to you, and our local expert will guide you to the ideal fit—complete with the latest listings, visit planning, and expert insights tailored to your goals.
