The 9 Best Golf Communities in the North Carolina Mountains

Western North Carolina golf community Balsam Mountain Preserve. Beautiful mountain golf course in the private mountain community Balsam Mountain Preserve.

If you’re an avid golfer seeking the perfect golf community in the picturesque North Carolina mountains, you’re in the right place.

Luxury-Communities.com specializes in helping buyers discover the finest private golf communities across the U.S., and we’ve handpicked our favorite options in the Asheville area and beyond.

While golf takes center stage, we also evaluate the quality, atmosphere, and lifestyle these communities offer. From breathtaking mountain vistas to exceptional amenities, Western North Carolina golf communities combine the love of the game with luxury living.

Western NC Golf Communities

Western North Carolina offers a stunning natural setting for golf courses, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and cool mountain breezes. The mild climate provides ideal golfing conditions for most of the year, making this region a haven for enthusiasts.

However, the rugged mountain terrain poses a challenge, making the construction of these courses an impressive—and costly—feat. That’s why the area’s best courses are often tucked behind the gates of exclusive, custom-built home communities, offering residents a blend of privacy, beauty, and world-class golf.

If you’re trying to decide which community suits you best, you’ll find plenty of excellent choices. The challenge lies in narrowing down the options—but that’s where we come in. Our local Broker partners and golf pros know these communities like the back of their hand and can guide you to the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

The Best Golf Communities in Asheville

For those eager to tee off amid the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers some of the most prestigious golf communities in the region. From luxurious estates to vibrant social hubs, these neighborhoods cater to every need. To browse all of Asheville's golf communities click here.

The Cliffs at Walnut Cove

Located in south Asheville, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove is a premier private golf community featuring a stunning Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

Designed to immerse golfers in a natural, forest-like setting, Walnut Cove is the only course in the region to debut with a PGA Tour event. Renowned for its immaculate maintenance and luxurious atmosphere, this community is tailored for those with top-tier budgets.

Golf course homes and townhouses range from $1–3 million, and membership grants access to six other Cliffs golf courses, all within an hour's drive.

Biltmore Forest Country Club

Just ten minutes from Asheville’s vibrant city center, Biltmore Forest Country Club is a prestigious, by-invitation-only, member-owned private club.

Set on 135 acres, this course was designed by Donald J. Ross. Our golf pro says that Biltmore Forest has the best Donald Ross greens he’s ever putted on.

The clubhouse offers a range of amenities, including a pool, dining areas, and various social activities. Homes in this elegant community typically range from $1–4 million but can reach up to $10 million.

Best Golf Communities in Western North Carolina

If you’re ready to explore beyond Asheville, Western North Carolina offers an array of remarkable golf communities. Nestled among the region’s stunning landscapes, these communities feature exceptional courses paired with breathtaking mountain views and luxurious amenities. Discover the charm of these destinations, each offering its own unique appeal. Click here to view all golf communities in Western North Carolina.

Balsam Mountain Preserve

Balsam Mountain Preserve Golf community in North Carolina Mountains. Arnold Palmer Signature Design.

Just forty minutes from the center of Asheville, Balsam Mountain Preserve offers breathtaking views and an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course that sits at elevations between 3,700 and 4,400 feet.

The course was designed with challenging holes that penalize bad shots and reward the good ones. And the views are incredible from every hole. Palmer himself said: “the mountainous terrain, spectacular views of surrounding mountains and beautiful streams are what make Balsam Mountain Preserve different from any course I have ever designed.”

This private gated community is more than a golfer’s haven; it boasts 42 miles of hiking trails, equestrian facilities, fitness and dining options, and a serene, nature-filled environment. Nearby Waynesville and Sylva add to its appeal with charming local attractions.

While golf course homes are limited, the new Overlook at Doubletop Mountain neighborhood offers stunning views of the Palmer Practice Park and course holes 9, 10, and 17.

Mountain Air Country Club

Mountain Air Golf Club in North Carolina mountains.

This western North Carolina golf community is located just forty-five minutes north of Asheville. Mountain Air Country Club is a private, member-owned gated community perched at nearly 5,000 feet of elevation.

The Scott Pool-designed course is renowned for its dramatic mountain layout and awe-inspiring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Links Magazine described it as “one of the most dramatic and naturally conceived courses in the country.”

Amenities include a heated pool, fitness classes, hiking trails, and a unique 2,875-foot runway, allowing members to conveniently fly in. Homes and condominiums are typically available, as well as homesites listed for up to $250,000.

Champion Hills Community

5th hole Champion Hills Golf Club Hendersonville NC

About 50 minutes south of Asheville is Champion Hills Community, a member-owned and somewhat remote golf community enclave.

The Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course offers great green complexes with gorgeous tree-lined fairways running parallel to the mountainscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s been rated the number one year-round golf course in North Carolina.

The gated community offers a lifestyle that promotes health and wellness. Aside from playing golf, there’s a swimming pool, fitness classes, and trails. Homes in Champion Hills range from $500,000 to $3 million.

Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club

Mountaintop golf club Highland Cashiers NC

Situated about 90 minutes southwest of Asheville, Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club features one of the most meticulously maintained golf courses in Western North Carolina.

Designed by Thomas Fazio, the course offers an exceptional golfing experience, complemented by luxury amenities like a spa, swimming pool, and gourmet dining options. The comfort station overlooking the 18th hole is particularly noteworthy.

Residences include estate lots and cabins with a wide range of pricing options. The lake club and activities add to the community's unique appeal.

Wade Hampton Golf Club

Approximately an hour and 40 minutes from Asheville, Wade Hampton Golf Club is a Thomas Fazio masterpiece ranked as the #1 golf course in North Carolina by Golf Digest and #26 in the United States.

Surrounded by rugged mountainsides, granite bluffs, and serene lakes, the course is complemented by a rustic-style clubhouse with dining, a golf shop, and relaxing spaces. Residences and homesites are situated at an elevation of 3,486 feet, surrounded by 28,000 acres of national forest.

Linville Ridge 

Linville Ridge Country Club Linville NC

Located near Blowing Rock, about 90 minutes northeast of Asheville, Linville Ridge is a highly private and underrated golf community.

The course is celebrated for its expansive, undulating greens and exceptional green complexes. Beyond golf, residents enjoy five-star amenities, including tennis, swimming, and more.

Homes in this mountaintop community range from $175,000 to several million dollars.

High Hampton Resort

Located 100 minutes southwest of Asheville, High Hampton Resort features a seasonal Tom Fazio-designed course surrounded by lush mountain views and deep green bentgrass fairways.

The Range House offers a pro shop and a welcoming space to unwind after a round of golf. Real estate opportunities include spacious homes and cozy cottages priced from around $1 million to several million.

Real Estate

If you’re ready to discover your ideal golf community in Western North Carolina, contact Luxury-Communities. Our team of experts can help you navigate the options, answer your questions, and find your perfect home in a community that fits your lifestyle.