NC Living Magazine - Spring 2024

PLUGGED INTO 2024 | Plateau Concerts Lineup A TAVERN WITH A TWIST | At Highlands Tavern

GET HOOKED | Brookings Anglers STORIED STAYS | Travel Through Time with Diana Gabaldon

SILVER CREEK REA L ESTATE GROUP

When we decided to put our Mountaintop estate on the market we spoke to several people and time and time again the same name came up, Silver Creek Real Estate Group. My wife and I were hearing from friends and family as far away as South Florida, Louisiana, and New York telling us they had seen the home advertised. Don't make the mistake of hiring a national brand firm that will just list your home and wait for their phone to ring. Hire someone who will work their tail off to represent your home the way it should be represented, cast a big net for qualified prospective buyers, and get your home sold. Silver Creek is in a league of their own.

— B.R. & C.R.

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT

I hope that as this issue of NC Living arrives, you’re enjoying the warm spring sunshine and planning a season of adventures on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. The late spring issue represents one of our favorites each year as we unveil upcoming public concert lineups and performing arts schedules. There is so much to see and do in our area, and involvement in the arts is the perfect complement to our relaxed lifestyle and beautiful natural scenery.

In this issue, we also share a bit of history unique to our area, along with a taste of our local culture. We profile the opening of a brand-new shopping experience for outdoorsmen, as well as a fun and innovative local restaurant. We also offer an update on what our Silver Creek brokers have been up to as we continue our commitment to leadership and excellence in real estate on the Plateau.

We view our role as not merely real estate brokers but as representatives of the distinctive culture and lifestyle in Highlands and Cashiers. Helping our clients settle into an idyllic life in the mountains is but one of the many hats we wear; we also commit to serving our community, preserving our natural resources, and fostering the deep and enduring connections that transform a place into a home.

Clients choose Silver Creek representation because our depth and breadth of experience go beyond the facts and figures of real estate. We cherish the sublime beauty of this land and share our clients’ love of their community. Our passion for life on the Plateau extends to everything we do, and we relish the opportunity to help you live your favorite day, every day.

As spring transitions into summer, the real estate market presents exciting opportunities. While planning your social calendar and immersing yourself in Plateau life, new dreams can take shape. Partner with us, and together, we will define your ideal mountain lifestyle.

TULIPS AT FIDDLEHEAD DESIGNS IN CASHIERS, NC. PHOTO BY COURTNEY SNYDER.

LIFESTYLE

UPCOMING EVENTS

Page 8

PLUGGED INTO 2024 Page 10

A TAVERN WITH A TWIST Page 24

CENTER STAGE

MAKING MEMORIES

CREATING CONNECTIONS

ECHOES OF GET HOOKED

upcoming event S

3 RIVER FLY FISHING FESTIVAL

MAY 2 through 4

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Open to all ages and skill levels, this annual tournament is a great opportunity to get outdoors, hone your skills, and benefit the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit 3riverflyfish.com

POP UP PIPERS

MAY 4 and JUNE 1

FROM 4:30 to 5 PM

DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS

Get a taste of the Plateau’s Scottish roots with local bagpipers presented by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands NC. Read more about North Carolina's Scottish roots on page 82 For more information, visit highlandschamber.org .

HIGH STYLE

MAY 17 through 19

DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS

This inaugural event will be “a celebration of art, cuisine, fashion & music” hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands NC. With a combination of free and paid events, this weekend is sure to be one of the highlights of May on the Plateau. For more information, visit highlandschamber.org .

ORCHARD SESSIONS WITH HIGHBEAMS

MAY 30

FROM 6 to 8 PM

THE FARM AT OLD EDWARDS

Escape for an evening at The Farm at Old Edwards with Highbeams, a trio of brothers and best friends (Adam Pendlington, Ian Pendlington, and Stephen Quinn). Enjoy the enchanting setting of the Orchard House with light bites and a cash bar. Open to the public for $40. For more information, visit oldedwardshospitality.com

BASCOM GALA

JUNE 11

BEGINS AT 6 PM

THE BASCOM: A CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

The signature annual fundraiser for The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts, this elegant evening is the perfect night out with a cocktail reception, plated dinner with live music, dancing, and a silent auction. For more information, visit thebascom.org .

LOW COUNTRY SHRIMP BOIL

JUNE 15

BEGINS AT 12 PM

KELSEY-HUTCHINSON FOUNDERS PARK

Benefitting Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, this exciting event is the perfect place to bring the whole family together for a good ole’ low country shrimp boil. This beloved annual event is organized by Friends of Founders Park. For more information, visit foundersparkhighlands.org

CASHIERS-HIGHLANDS

HUMANE SOCIETY GALA

JUNE 17

COUNTRY CLUB OF SAPPHIRE VALLEY

Join the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley to raise funds for the shelter pets. For more information, visit chhumanesociety.org .

VILLAGE NATURE SERIES

JUNE 25

BEGINS AT 5:30 PM

THE VILLAGE GREEN COMMONS

Hosted by The Village Green and the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, this ongoing summer series provides a fun and free, way to learn about wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local history. The June lecture is “Mushrooms 101: A Sneak Peak into the Frontier of the Future” by Lizza Bixby. For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com .

GROOVIN’ ON THE GREEN

For those spending the summer in Cashiers, this is the place to be! On select Friday evenings from May through August, Groovin’ on the Green presents a schedule of live music to keep the whole family entertained. It’s a great opportunity to get out and mingle with residents and visitors as The Village Green is

transformed into an outdoor concert venue.

Bring lawn chairs, a blanket, or even a popup canopy on sunny days because you’ll want to stay awhile.

Greet old friends, make new ones, and dance the night away all summer long! Pack a picnic, or savor food and beverages from local vendors at every event. For those who would like to rent a tent, reservation links are posted on The Village Green website and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Shows run from 6 until 8:30 PM, rain or shine.

DARREN NICHOLSON BAND

MAY 24

Darren has graced hallowed halls of country music’s sacred stages, The Grand Ole Opry, numerous times as one of the founding members of Balsam Range. After 15 years with Balsam Range, this wanderer, which is the name of his latest solo album, has broken out on his own and gripped

listeners with powerful ballads. Don’t miss your chance to let your inner wanderer free for an evening. To learn more about Darren Nicholson, visit darrennicholson.net

The Elevated Kitchen food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Whiteside Brewing Co. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

KEVIN DANIEL & THE BOTTOM LINE

MAY 31

Kevin Daniel, a Brooklyn-based Americana singer, brings a rich tapestry of southern rock, gospel, and blues to stages across the US. Raised in North Carolina, this introspective and soulful performer has captivated audiences, earning him acclaim from publications like Americana Highways Magazine and invitations to perform at prestigious festivals like SXSW and Mountain Jam. Make sure you don’t miss this unforgettable night!

To learn more about Kevin Daniel & The Bottom Line, visit thekevindaniel.com

The Chili Chomper food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Innovation Brewing. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

NERO SIMON AND THE SUNSETTERS

JUNE 7

This American rock band from Atlanta, GA blends the styles of classic rock and 70s California folk, transporting you to the ocean and letting you drift into a sonic splendor. Let this 8-piece ensemble band bestow some sunshine on you for the evening. To learn more about Nero Simon and The Sunsetters, visit nerosimon.com

The El Bodegon food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Innovation Brewing. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

COMMODORE FOX

JUNE 21

Commodore Fox cranks out current rock and dance hits to your all-time favorites going back to the 70s. This party band aims to please and delivers!

The Elevated Kitchen food truck will be onsite, along with beer from Whiteside Brewing Co. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

THE WOBBLERS

JUNE 19

This South Carolina, genre-defying, eight-piece roots band delivers soulful rhythms from New Orleans to Chicago blues. Sit back and enjoy a thrilling set of originals and some rearranged favorite covers in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. To learn more about The Wobblers, visit wobblersmusic.com

The Elevated Kitchen food truck will be onsite, along with beer from Whiteside Brewing Co. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

ANGELA EASTERLING & THE BEGUILERS

AUGUST 2

Angela Easterling and her talented backing band, The Beguilers, deliver a distinctive blend of rootsy, homespun tunes that defy easy genres. Drawing from her deep southern roots, Angela infuses her music with poetic melodies. To learn more about Angela Easterling & The Beguilers, visit angelaeasterling.com

The Elevated Kitchen food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Innovation Brewing. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

MARTIN AND KELLY

AUGUST 16

This New England duo has quickly gained acclaim in Nashville for effortlessly blending traditional and contemporary country music. They have shared the stage with country music giants such as Brad Paisley, Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert, and many more. Jilly and Ryan are sure to make this evening one you will never forget. To learn more about Martin and Kelly, visit martinkellymusic.com

The El Bodegon food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Whiteside Brewing Co. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

PRETTY LITTLE GOAT

AUGUST 30

Pretty Little Goat embodies the essence of grassroots music that is heavily rooted in the traditions of Western North Carolina. Since their formation in 2013, they have earned acclaim for their authentic renditions of old-time tunes and original compositions. Don’t miss an evening steeped in Appalachian culture. To learn more about Pretty Little Goat, visit prettylittlegoat.com

The Elevated Kitchen food truck will be on-site, along with beer from Innovation Brewing. Crossroads Custard will be serving up sweet treats.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AND SATURDAYS ON PINE

Each Friday and Saturday night, from 6 to 8:30 PM, this mountain town transforms into a musical oasis. Wander down to Highlands Town Square on Main Street on Fridays to revel in the varied sounds of regional and national artists. On Saturdays, pack your favorite picnic basket

and set up camp in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park for evenings set to your favorite playlists, and maybe discover a few new favorites along the way. These free concerts brought to you by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC are the perfect place to forge new friendships and create new memories. Bring your chairs, pack a picnic, and plan to stay a while! These free outdoor concerts are the perfect opportunity to get out and mingle with other Highlanders while enjoying some great live music.

SILLY RIDGE

MAY 17 (FRIDAY)

Silly Ridge Trio is a Highlands-based classic bluegrass band that incorporates an eclectic mix of Americana and folk into their music. The energetic band showcases the talents of Knight Martorell (banjo, harmonica, and harmony vocals), Dave Mueller (mandolin and lead vocals), and David Crisp (guitar and lead vocals). To learn more about Silly Ridge, visit sillyridge.com

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

MAY 18 (SATURDAY)

Charlotte-based Continental Divide entertains with the silky-smooth voice of frontman Gene Pharr, a Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame member, and an eight-piece band with a horn section. To learn more about Continental Divide, visit bookece.com/artists/continental-divide

MCLAIN FAMILY BAND

MAY 24 (FRIDAY)

Hailing from the hills of Kentucky, The McLain Family Band has garnered international acclaim for their dynamic performances of contemporary Appalachian Bluegrass music. Since their inception in 1968, they have traveled to all 50 states and 64 countries, and have graced the stages of the Grand Ole Opry and Carnegie Hall, as well as numerous festivals. To learn more about The McLain Family Band, visit mclainfamilyband.com

CUTLASS PERFORMS AT WHITESIDE

SOUTHSIDE STATION

MAY 25 (SATURDAY)

This five-piece band comprised of talented musicians and vocalists delivers an eclectic approach to iconic hits. From pop songs to country ballads, this band will have you falling in love with your favorite songs all over again. To learn more about Southside Station, visit bookece. com/artists/southside-station

BYRDS & CROWS

MAY 31 (FRIDAY)

Based in Transylvania County, Byrds & Crows enjoy playing songs that are deeply rooted in the Appalachian Mountains and consist of bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, folk, and early country music. Band members include Kenny Byrd (guitar, harmonica, and vocals), Sheila Byrd (mandolin and vocals), Will Byrd (banjo and guitar), Andy Cole (fiddle, harmonica, and vocals), and Joe Alexander (bass).

HIGH 5

JUNE 1 (SATURDAY)

High 5’s blend of rock, blues, Americana, bluegrass, country, and jazz brings a rich melody that will have you dancing the night away.

THE FOXFIRE BOYS

JUNE 7 (FRIDAY)

Formed in the early 1980s, The Foxfire Boys is a versatile, high-energy band that grew out of its members’ participation in The Foxfire Fund’s Appalachian culture and music program in Northeast Georgia. More than 40 years later, the band has performed their mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, folk, country, Americana, and bluegrass gospel at renowned venues across the Southeast. To learn more about The Foxfire Boys, visit doghouse510.wixsite.com/ thefoxfireboys

BILL MATTOCKS

JUNE 8 (SATURDAY)

Bill Mattocks is a true blues legend. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Bill packed up his harmonica and headed to Western North Carolina, where he brings his authentic delivery of Chicago-style blues and other styles to mountain stages. To learn more about Bill Mattocks, visit reverbnation.com/billmattocks

SPARE PARTS BLUEGRASS BAND

JUNE 14 (FRIDAY)

Delicate harmonies meet tried-and-true barn burners that unleash an entirely unique bluegrass experience. This South Carolina band expertly uses their 50 years of musical experience to impart an evening of musical splendor in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

BACK PORCH ORCHESTRA

JUNE 15 (SATURDAY)

See page 14

CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

JUNE 21 (FRIDAY)

The Curtis Blackwell Band was formed in 1960 when Curtis, his brother, and a friend won a radio talent contest. When four more members were added, they became Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys, touring across the eastern U.S. Fifty years later, with a home base of Macon County, the band includes two of its founding members. Curtis Blackwell is honored in the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.

THE HC OAKES BAND

JUNE 22 (SATURDAY)

Founded by HC Oakes and Nick Elhini, this sixperson band delivers an impressive set list of your favorite songs, from Tom Petty to the Allman Brothers, and originals from the three albums. Be ready to rock and roll the night away! To learn more about The HC Oakes Band, visit thehcoakesband.com

JOHNNY WEBB BAND

JUNE 28 (FRIDAY)

One of Western North Carolina’s premier country bands, the Johnny Webb Band offers laid-back yet seasoned and professional performances, giving their audiences an exceptional musical experience with a down-home flavor. With song selections spanning more than 50 years, this band’s versatility and evolving repertoire make them a favorite.

THE BUSINESS

JULY 4 (THURSDAY)

IN KELSEY-HUTCHINSON FOUNDERS PARK

The eight members of The Business deliver powerful vocals, an accomplished horn section, and outstanding showmanship. With an old-

school flair, The Business brings soul and rock ‘n roll hits from the 50s and 60s, as well as choice tunes from the decades that followed. To learn more about The Business, visit bookece.com/artists/ the-business

NITROGRASS

JULY 5 (FRIDAY)

Nitrograss merges traditional Scruggs-style banjo with rhythmic motifs reminiscent of ZZ Top and the Allman Brothers, delivering melodic acoustic sounds and visually appealing performances. Band members include Charles Wood (banjo), Caleb Hanks (mandolin), Micah Hanks (guitar), and Dakota “Smoky” Waddell (bass). To learn more about Nitrograss, visit nitrograss.com

BLAZE THE CITY

JULY 6 (SATURDAY)

This band brings incredible vocal harmonies, funky dance rhythms, and scorching guitar to their energetic performances. Blaze the City combines decades of performance ability and passion for delivering entertainment in genres ranging from pop, funk, and Top 40 dance to rock, country, blues, Motown, and more. To learn more about Blaze the City, visit bookece.com/artists/ blaze-the-city

SILLY RIDGE

JULY 12 (FRIDAY)

See page 13

DIVE BAR DIVAS

JULY 13 (SATURDAY)

The ensemble known as Dive Bar Divas comprises experienced entertainers with a wide range

of musical genres including pop, rock, country, funk, R&B, soul, dance, and disco. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes!

LEADFOOT LILY

JULY 19 (FRIDAY)

Leadfoot Lily features an eclectic mix of 70s pop, rhythm and blues, country, folk, rock, and bluegrass. Lifelong friends

Dean English and Mike Hamilton — two members of the band The Foxfire Boys — along with their wives, Shelli English and Christy Hamilton, genuinely enjoy performing together.

LAZRLUVR

JULY 20 (SATURDAY)

Prepare yourself for an 80s comeback featuring popped collars, teased hair, fingerless gloves, and LazrLuvr. Formed

in 2021 in Asheville, this classic 80s tribute band brings a high-energy performance and show-stopping experience from start to finish. Band members include Eric Congdon (guitar, vocals), Walker Astin (bass), Hope Griffin (vocals, acoustic), Brad Curtioff (keys and synth), Sam Frame (drums and vocals), and Raphael Morales (vocals). To learn more about LazrLuvr, visit lazrluvr.com

KETTLE

JULY 26 (FRIDAY)

A lively three-piece band, Kettle performs alternative country, electrified Americana, psychedelic folk, and all points in between. Kettle uses a unique drum set based around an old suitcase and various percussion instruments to embellish the songs. Suave and sometimes gritty vocals make for a unique, down-home, rocking good time.

THE BREAKFAST CLUB

JULY 27 (SATURDAY)

Formed in 1993, The Breakfast Club is a longrunning 80s tribute band that takes its audience back to the early days of MTV. To learn more about The Breakfast Club, visit bookece.com/artists/ breakfast-club

EZRA & KATIE

AUGUST 2 (FRIDAY)

For over ten years, husband and wife duo Ezra and Katie have been playing acoustic music. The Highlands natives spent seven years in Los

Angeles pursuing their creative endeavors of writing, acting, and performing small acoustic shows in and around the city. The duo is heavily influenced by folk music, country, and traditional Appalachian hymns. They are inspired by Americana artists like Avett Brothers, Langhorne Slim, John Prine, and Miranda Lambert.

THE HOLIDAY BAND

AUGUST 3 (SATURDAY)

The Holiday Band from Chapel Hill, NC, was formed in 1991 and inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame in 2015. They bring jam-packed performances of everything from Southern soul and beach music to classic rock. To learn more about The Holiday Band, visit theholidayband.com

ABC COMBO

AUGUST 9 (FRIDAY)

Boasting a collective experience of more than six decades, David Crisp (guitar), Brian Aulisio (bass/ trumpet), Caleb Brown (drums/percussion), and Tom Herbort (saxophone), blend an array of

styles crafting a rich tapestry of musical expression. This is an auditory delight that cannot be missed. To learn more about the ABC Combo, visit abccombo.com

WILL THOMPSON BAND

AUGUST 10 (SATURDAY)

The Will Thompson Band is a talented, energetic band from Florida’s Gulf Coast. Recently winning best band on the Emerald Coast, the Will Thompson Band plays unique covers and headturning originals. To learn more about the Will Thompson Band, visit willthompsonmusic.com

STEADY HAND STRING BAND

AUGUST 16 (FRIDAY)

Based out of Long Creek, South Carolina, Steady Hand String Band is an old-time string band performing tunes that originated pre-1930s with some old country tunes thrown in as well. They strive to preserve the oral tradition of Appalachian folk music through their modern renditions of traditional tunes.

SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

AUGUST 23 (FRIDAY)

Life-long friends and business partners

Tom Nixon and Dean English are the proprietors of Blue Ridge Music in Clayton, GA, and the heart and soul of Southern

Highland Band. The group has performed countless regional festivals and events, private parties, weddings, and receptions with other rotating band members (depending upon the venue). These accomplished musicians bring the music of various genres to the stage with an emphasis on Bluegrass roots.

SPARE PARTS BLUEGRASS BAND

AUGUST 30 (FRIDAY)

See page 14

FULL CIRCLE

AUGUST 31 (SATURDAY)

Formed in 2003, Full Circle brings the songs you know and love to the stage with great vocals, tight harmonies, and jam-packed solos. They deliver performances full of energy, covering everything from the ’60s to modern country with covers of classics by The Beatles, Chicago, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Heart, Santana, Queen, The Pretenders, Carole King, James Taylor, and many more.

JOHNNY WEBB BAND

SEPTEMBER 6 (FRIDAY)

See page 14

STEEL TOE STILETTO

SEPTEMBER 7 (SATURDAY)

Formed in Greenville, SC, Steel Toe Stiletto performs all over the southeast at charity galas, corporate parties, wedding receptions, and celebratory events, bringing your favorite tunes to the stage. They are impressive vocalists and musicians known for their modern and professional performances that entertain any crowd all night. To learn more about Steel Toe Stilleto, visit partywithsts.com

SILLY RIDGE

SEPTEMBER 13 (FRIDAY)

See page 13

HIGH 5

SEPTEMBER 14 (SATURDAY)

See page 14

CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

SEPTEMBER 20 (FRIDAY)

See page 14

THE BOOMERS

SEPTEMBER 21 (SATURDAY)

The Boomers have shared the stage with performers like Hootie and the Blowfish, Alison Krauss, Edwin McCain, and Huey Lewis, and they know exactly how to entertain a crowd. Their performances have ranged from the ’97 President Clinton Inaugural Ball to the 2012 NFL Owners Meeting, not to mention hundreds of wedding receptions. From their groovy song selections to the unwavering quality of their stage presence, they are sure to get the crowd excited.

NITROGRASS

SEPTEMBER 27 (FRIDAY)

See page 15

KAYLA MCKINNEY

SEPTEMBER 28 (SATURDAY)

Kayla’s music has captivated audiences across the southeastern United States with her heartfelt originals, including those from her album “These Two Barstools.” Heavily influenced by the likes of Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, and Carrie Underwood, Kayla’s steadfast mission of empowering women through her music is evident in each and every

lyric she writes. To learn more about Kayla McKinney, visit kaylamckinneycountry.com

ZORKI

OCTOBER 4 (FRIDAY)

As a young musician, Zorki began his journey by playing in Washington Square Park in New York City. Eventually, he broke into the music scene and met the love of his life, with whom he is now raising two sons in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau area. He offers complex acoustic guitar grooves and soothing vocals. To learn more about Zorki, visit zorki.com

THIRSTY HORSES

OCTOBER 5 (SATURDAY)

Thirsty Horses has performed across the Southeast for the past 12 years. They bring a highenergy show and an extensive setlist, covering classic rock, country, Americana, songs from the 90s, and 60s pop-rock. To learn more about Thirsty Horses, visit bookece.com/ artists/thirsty-horses

THE FOXFIRE BOYS

OCTOBER 11 (FRIDAY)

See page 14

NU BLUE

OCTOBER 12 (SATURDAY)

Hosts of TV’s Bluegrass Ridge show, which is viewed in over 160 million homes across the US each week, Nu-Blu brings a unique sound and exciting performances to all of their audiences. Formerly a Carolina Music Awards Country Band of the Year, the band has toured for over 200 days each year along with national TV appearances, five albums on the Top 10 Billboard Charts, and a #1 most played song on Sirius/XM radio.

BEAR SHADOW FESTIVAL

This spring, the Bear Shadow music festival will once again grace the Plateau with a weekend full of good music, local businesses, and friendly faces. Held at the historic Winfield Farm, just seven miles from downtown Highlands, it provides an idyllic venue complete with open, grassy fields surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountain peaks. Festival-goers spend their days basking in the spring sunshine to the backdrop of stunning scenery and diverse musical offerings. Then, as the sun sets behind the mountains, they dance the night away in front of the main stage. The 2024 festival is scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, May 11 — May 12.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Gates open at 1:30 PM.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS

2:30 — 3:30 PM

For the North Mississippi Allstars, music is a family affair deeply rooted in tradition and shared experiences. With a legacy spanning 25 years, twelve albums, and four GRAMMY® nominations, the band continues to evolve and innovate while staying true to their roots. From heartfelt blues to soul-stirring ballads, each track on their thirteenth album, “Set Sail,” reflects the band’s commitment to storytelling and musical exploration. To learn more about the North Mississippi Allstars, visit nmallstars.com

AMERICAN AQUARIUM

4 — 5:15 PM

American Aquarium’s ninth studio album, “Chicamacomico,” is an ode to resilience and redemption, drawing inspiration from the

historic life-saving station off Hatteras Island. Frontman BJ Barham’s roots in North Carolina is deeply woven into the fabric of the album, which navigates themes of loss and salvation through poignant songwriting. “Chicamacomico” stands as a testament to the power of music to illuminate even the darkest of corners of the human experience. To learn more about American Aquarium, visit americanaquarium.com

FUTUREBIRDS

5:45 — 7:15 PM

Athens-based rock powerhouse Futurebirds unveils their latest EP, “Bloomin’ Too,” marking 13 years of sonic exploration and unwavering determination. The band’s genre-defying journey is celebrated as they carve out their unique musical space. To learn more about Futurebirds, visit futurebirdsmusic.com

JJ GREY & MOFRO

8 — 9:30 PM

JJ Grey & Mofro embodies the essence of the Southern soul, delivering deeply moving, funkified rock that resonates with universal themes of redemption and inner peace. JJ’s gritty baritone paints a vivid portrait of life in the Northern Florida swamplands, celebrating the good times, personal triumphs, and critical struggles. To learn more about JJ Grey & Mofro, visit jjgrey.com

SUNDAY, MAY 12

Gates open at 12:30 PM.

GRACE BOWERS

1:30 — 2:30 PM

A true guitar prodigy wielding a red Gibson SG, Grace Bowers channels raw emotion through her fluid fretwork and soul-stirring riffs, eschewing words for the language of chords and leads. Her powerful emergence onto the music scene, Grace has garnered attention from legends like Dolly Parton and accolades from Rolling Stone for her enigmatic presence. With her debut album set to release this summer, Grace will surely make an indelible mark in music history and bring a note of that with her to the Plateau. To learn more about Grace Bowers, visit gracebowers.com

WHITE DENIM

3 — 4:15 PM

The Austin, Texas band, White Denim, is wholly unique with its ability to craft songs that are sure to bring forth your riotous nature. You will find yourself viscerally elated and intrigued as their set unleashes a poetic sense of chaos. To learn more about White Denim, visit white-denim-music.myshopify.com.

THE RECORD COMPANY

4:45 — 6:15 PM

A tight-knit musical family, The Record Company is more than just a band. Their musical interactions resemble a supportive conversation among siblings, with each member’s personality shining through in their bluesy guitar leads, tight drum grooves, thick basslines, and vividly evocative lyrics. To learn more about The Record Company, visit therecordcompany.net

BLACK PUMAS

7 — 8:30 PM

Black Pumas burst onto the scene as one of the most electrifying acts in recent memory, captivating audiences with their unique blend of psychedelic soul. Their self-titled 2019 debut album garnered widespread acclaim, earning them a Grammy Award nomination for Album of the Year. To learn more about the Black Pumas, visit blackpumas.com

CONCERTS ON THE SLOPES

As summer approaches, Ski Sapphire Valley transforms from a bustling ski resort into an outdoor concert venue. Concert goers are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, and other picnic items, as the resort’s supply is on a first-come, first-served basis with approximately 100 chairs. Many Sapphire locals opt to cart over and enjoy the evening festivities.

Tickets start at $22 for all who purchase the day prior to the performance and $27 on the day of the show at the gate. Or, save with a season pass for $75 and enjoy all four concerts. You may reserve personal tents and tables through the community center.

Shows begin at 7 PM.

THE TAMS JUNE 25

For over five decades, The Tams have captivated audiences with their electrifying performances! The Tams’ music blends elements of smooth soul and R&B, creating a dynamic experience that appeals to audiences of all generations and musical preferences.

TOO MUCH SYLVIA

JULY 16

Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experience of a Too Much Sylvia performance! With their captivating stage

presence and distinct personalities, this band is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on any audience. To learn more about Too Much Sylvia, visit toomuchsylvia.com

SWINGIN’ MEDALLIONS

AUGUST 6

A cherished Southern tradition since 1962, The Swingin’ Medallions have passed down their dynamic blend of music and performance from one generation to the next. Founded by John McElrath, the band now includes a vibrant lineup featuring his sons and original members, captivating audiences with their high-energy performances that bridge the gap between past

BEL CANTO RECITALS

Bel Canto is an annual benefit performance showcasing acclaimed opera talents from around the globe, with many having graced the stage of the Metropolitan Opera. A cherished tradition in Highlands, the program delights audiences with beloved arias and Broadway melodies. Established in 1993 as a fundraiser for The Bascom, Bel Canto now extends its support to music programs at Highlands School and local preschools. The upcoming 2024 event is scheduled for September 8 at Highlands Performing Arts Center, followed by an elegant gala dinner at Highlands Country Club.

and present. To learn more about The Swingin’ Medallions, visit swinginmedallions.com

THE LEGACY MOTOWN REVUE

SEPTEMBER 1

The ultimate Motown tribute band, The Legacy Motown Revue highlights the giants of Motown. You will be transported back in time to one of the most influential periods of American musical history. To learn more about The Legacy Motown Revue, visit thelegacymotownrevue.com

This year, Bel Canto will feature a quartet of internationally recognized singers: Toni Marie Palmertree (soprano), Anna Kelly (mezzosoprano), Derrek Stark (tenor), and Daniel Belcher (baritone). Tickets will be available around August 15. To learn more about the Bel Canto Recitals, call 828-526-4949.

THE HIGHLANDSCASHIERS CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

Each year, world-class musicians converge on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau to perform a renowned classical repertoire. One of the oldest and longest summer chamber music festivals in the country, the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival has enriched the cultural landscape of these idyllic mountain towns for over four decades.

From July 6 through August 11, the HighlandsCashiers Chamber Music Festival celebrates its 43rd season on the Plateau with a stacked schedule of events.

“NOW HERE THIS”

WITH VIOLINIST SCOTT YOO AND FRIENDS

Saturday, July 6 at 5 PM, Highlands Sunday, July 7 at 5 PM, Cashiers

“Spring” Sonata (Beethoven), String Trio in D Major (Beethoven), and Piano Quartet in G Minor (Brahms) will be performed by Scott Yoo, violin; Ani Aznavoorian, cello; Yinzi Kong, viola; William Ransom, piano.

“ALL IN THE FAMILY”

Monday, July 8 at 5 PM, Highlands Tuesday, July 9 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Duet for Viola & Cello (Hindemith), Romance for Violin & Piano (Dvorák), Armenian Folk Songs for Cello & Piano (Vartabed), Petite Suite for Piano, four hands (Debussy), and Quartet for Strings (Arensky) will be performed by Andres and Roberto Diaz, cello and viola; Ani and Marta Aznavoorian, cello and piano; Kate and William Ransom, violin and piano.

“BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATION

VIVE LA FRANCE!”

Saturday, July 13 at 5 PM, Highlands Sunday, July 14 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Cello Sonata (Debussy), Elegie (Fauré), Violin Sonata (Ravel), and Piano Quintet (Saint-Saëns) will be performed by Sara Sant’Ambrogio, cello; Yuriy Bekker, violin; Helen Kim, violin; Yinzi Kong, viola; Jasmin Arakawa, piano.

“VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE”

Monday, July 15 at 5 PM, Highlands Tuesday, July 16 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Clarinet Variations (Rossini), Flute Variations (Schubert), Violin Variations (Paganini), and Symphonic Etudes, Variations for piano solo (Schumann) will be performed by James Zellers, flute; Jesse McCandless, clarinet; Yuriy Bekker, violin; Jasmin Arakawa, piano.

“QUARTET FOR THE END OF TIME”

Saturday, July 20 at 5 PM, Highlands Sunday, July 21 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Clarinet Trio (Brahms) and Quartet for the End of Time (Messiaen) will be performed by David Shifrin, clarinet; Zuill Bailey, cello; Victor Asuncion, piano; Risa Hokamura, violin.

“CONCERTO NIGHT”

Monday, July 22 at 5 PM, Highlands Tuesday, July 23 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Cello Concerto (Dvorák) and Violin Concerto (Brahms) will be performed by Zuill Bailey, cello; Risa Hokamura, violin; Victor Asuncion, piano.

“CHEE-YUN — SOLO!”

Saturday, July 27 at 5 PM, Highlands Sunday, July 28 at 5 PM, Cashiers

Sonatensatz (Brahms), Sonata in D Minor (Brahms), and Sonata in D Minor (SaintSaëns) will be performed by Chee-Yun, violin; Elizabeth Pridgen, piano.

“DOVER QUARTET — DEBUT”

Monday, July 29 at 5 PM, Highlands Tuesday, July 30 at 5 PM, Cashiers

String Quartet in Eb Major (Mozart), Intimate Letters (Janácek), and Viola

Quintet in G Major (Brahms) will be performed by Yinzi Kong, viola.

“VIANO PLUS PIANO”

Saturday, August 3 at 5 PM, Highlands Sunday, August 4 at 5 PM, Cashiers

String Quartet in C Minor (Beethoven), String Quartet in B Minor (Barber), and Piano Quintet in A Major (Dvorák) will be performed by Viano String Quartet with William Ransom, piano.

“THE THREE GRACES — ENCORE!”

Monday, August 5 at 5 PM, Highlands Tuesday, August 6 at 5 PM at The Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library

Un sospiro (Liszt), Fratres (Pärt), Polonaise Brillante for Cello & Piano (Chopin), and Trio in C Minor (Mendelssohn) will be performed by Alice Hong, violin; Charae Krueger, cello; Julie Coucheron, piano.

GERSHON/COHN FINAL

GALA CONCERT & DINNER

“INVITATION TO THE DANCE”

Sunday, August 11 at 5 PM at Highlands Performing Arts Center with dinner following at Wildcat Cliffs Country Club.

Invitation to the Dance (Weber), Tarantella for Piano (Liszt), Tango for String Quartet (Gardel), The Elephant Waltz for Bass & Piano (SaintSaëns), and Rumanian Rhapsody #1 for Piano and String Quartet (Enesco) will be performed by David Coucheron and Alice Hong, violin; Vijay Venkatesh and William Ransom, piano; Jonathan Colbert, bass; Grace Gahng Gavin, cello; Joseph Skerik, viola.

In addition to the primary festival schedule from July 6 through August 11, the HighlandsCashiers Chamber Music Festival organizes numerous other special performances in venues throughout the Plateau. To learn more about the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, visit h-cmusicfestival.org

A Tavern with a Twist

word S by emily davi S

photography by courtney S nyder

FARM-TO-TABLE FUSION AT HIGHLANDS TAVERN

“Hey, come on in! Sit wherever you like,” calls the amiable bartender. It’s 5 PM and eager patrons pour into Highlands Tavern. The next visitor is greeted by name as Chef Kim Vos bustles through the dining room and recognizes one of her regulars. Tables begin to fill rapidly, even though the restaurant has just opened for the evening. As servers joke with their customers, it’s readily apparent that everyone knows one another. It was on this Monday that I found my new favorite haunt.

The tavern began as the brainchild of Vos, who asked co-owner Ryan Aydelotte to collaborate in 2022. Post-pandemic, the private club that had once occupied the space was now closed. With the public seeking inviting, sociable spaces once again, Vos and Aydelotte seized the opportunity. “We wanted to create a warm, old-school tavern, but with a unique twist,” Aydelotte tells me. “Kim is really the visionary behind this place. She’s an incredibly talented person, so I decided to just let her do her thing, and it turned out amazing.”

Glancing around the restaurant, I can see evidence of that creative drive in every detail. The walls are papered and lacquered in something that I later learn consists of bags torn into pieces and adhered to the wall to create a cocooning,

almost leathery effect. Wine bottles line the walls, and an enormous fish pays homage to Western North Carolina’s fly fishing culture. Even the restrooms are adorned in Vos’s quirky, artistic flair, with the vanity crafted out of a desk inherited from her grandmother.

The entire establishment is a testament to an artist’s vision, curated to create a cozy hangout for locals and a memorable experience for visitors. Located in the heart of downtown, across 4th Street from Old Edwards Inn, this is the type of place you wander into searching for a drink and a respite from the action — and find yourself reminiscing about it years later.

I soon discovered that the decor and ambiance aren’t the only inspired aspects of the place. Vos’s creative drive prompted

her to curate a menu offering high-quality, farmto-table cuisine that fits perfectly with the upscale Highlands scene yet also feels accessible and just the right amount of trendy.

“She creates dishes with brilliant flavor profiles," Aydelotte expounds. “We serve up foods that are locally sourced but with a subtle Indian or Asian twist.”

“I’D CALL IT FARM-TO-TABLE ETHNIC FUSION,” VOS AGREES. “WE HAVE OUR STAPLES ON THE MENU, OF COURSE, SO THAT WE CAN ALWAYS PROVIDE THOSE CUSTOMER FAVORITES. BUT WE SWITCH IT UP A LOT TO KEEP IT INTERESTING. ONCE OR TWICE A WEEK, WE ADD NEW SPECIALS, CREATING SOMETHING NEW THAT SUITS THE SEASON AND MAKES USE OF THE PRODUCE AND MEAT THAT WE SOURCE LOCALLY. WE ALSO BAKE FRESH BREADS IN-HOUSE DAILY.”

Farm-to-table cuisine focuses on the health and superior flavor of locally acquired provisions and environmental sustainability. When produce is trucked over from a local farm rather than a corporate operation thousands of miles away, the impact of fuel use and emissions produced is minimized. Local economies are boosted, too, as smaller-scale farmers reap the rewards of increased demand for their harvest. True to this concept, even the disposable dishes at Highlands Tavern are composed of rapidly replenishable, fully compostable bamboo.

Explaining the restaurant’s evening-only hours, Vos shares that with kitchen space limited, the Tavern simply does not possess the storage necessary to provide full-day operations. But she has brilliantly transformed what could have been a handicap into a strength. A smaller refrigeration unit means more frequent, and therefore fresher, food deliveries. Ongoing order placement and changing availability of ingredients necessitate innovation, contributing to more eclectic and dynamic specials. Vos’s creativity runs rampant as she churns out one original dish after another.

The burger is undoubtedly one of the best I’ve ever had. Ground brisket and short rib, sourced from a nearby farm in Franklin, is topped with tomato confit, smothered with Gruyère, and accented with arugula, house pickles, and black garlic aioli.

It’s massive, it’s delicious … and it’s gone in about five minutes. It’s that good.

Other menu standouts include the 205 wedge salad, which doesn’t skimp on the blue cheese or bacon jam, and the yellowfin tuna tartare with a zingy sesame chili sauce. Both dishes feature the right blend of accessibility and imagination; diners can try something that feels familiar but with just enough originality to take taste buds on an adventure. And, rumor has it that the Tavern Jerky is legendary. If you head out for drinks and appetizers with friends, be prepared to scuffle over it — or perhaps just order your own.

“My goal is to pack as much flavor and uniqueness into every dish as possible and provide something exciting and a little different in Highlands,” Vos explains. “I wanted this place to be not just a spot to eat and hang out but an experience.”

The tavern’s Instagram page portrays the chef’s vision come to life, with customers leaving enthusiastic reviews underneath vibrant photos of

weekly specials. “Easily the best food in Highlands,” one raves. “Beyond delicious!” exclaims another. Many punctuate their comments with grinning or drooling smiley faces, and the “fire” emoji dominates conversations.

Regulars make themselves known with praise like, “It was AMAZING … as always. So excited to be there tonight!” Some identify the tavern as their favorite place to eat in Highlands.” Vacationers wistfully report that they can’t wait to return.

“We’ve definitely seen a lot of repeat business,” Aydelotte recalls. “Obviously, we have our locals who show up frequently. But we’ve met so many visitors who love the food and come back each time they’re in town.”

In addition to serving up an inspired menu, the Highlands Tavern offers a friendly vibe that is thoughtfully nurtured by Vos. Upbeat rock music sets the scene, and the bar’s televisions — placed on the perimeter rather than center stage — play a variety of movies, nature shows, and even cartoons.

“We made a conscious choice with the ambiance, not to play the news or sports,” Vos illuminates. “There’s plenty of that in other places. We wanted to create a place where people come together and connect.” And you can certainly do that; while space is limited, the layout manages to feel cozy, not cramped, and the enormous, full-service bar is expertly staffed by savvy bartenders.

With the restaurant open until 11 PM, plan to stay awhile, enjoy a truly bespoke cocktail, gab with your neighbors, and make new friends. You would need a hollow leg to try every tempting option on the menu in one visit, but luckily, the town’s hippest hotspot is open five nights per week. Eventually, you can taste it all. Whether you’re a Plateau local or an adventuring tourist, Highlands Tavern is guaranteed to thrill your taste buds time and again.

For more information about Highlands Tavern, follow them on Instagram @highlands_tavern or visit highlandstavern.com

SILVER CREEK OFFICE LOCATIONS

CASHIERS 341 HIGHWAY 64 WEST 828-743-1999

HIGHLANDS 537 MAIN STREET 828-526-2999

GLENVILLE 4312 HIGHWAY 107 N 828-743-1999

HIGHLAND GAP

CULLOWHEE FOREST

WOLF KNOB ACRES

SIMS VALLEY

GLENSHORE

WOUDES MOUNTAIN

STONE POINTE

STRAWBERRY HILL

GREY CLIFF

THE LAKE CLUB

SUMMER HILL

STONE BRIDGE

BRIGHT MOUNTAIN

BRIDGE CREEK

HICKORY KNOLL

CROSS CREEK

MOUNTAINTOP

TRILLIUM LINKS

STILLMONT & CONTINENTAL CLIFFS

GLENCOVE BY OLD EDWARDS

OLD EDWARDS CLUB

COLD SPRINGS

HIGHLANDS FALLS COUNTRY CLUB

THE COTSWOLDS

SHERWOOD FOREST

WILDCAT CLIFFS COUNTRY CLUB

TURTLE POND

MIRROR LAKE

HIGHLANDS COUNTRY CLUB

HIGHGATE

MOUNTAIN LAUREL

DOG MOUNTAIN

VZ TOP

HIGHLANDS MOUNTAIN CLUB

KING MOUNTAIN CLUB

ROCKY KNOB

CULLASAJA CLUB

BIG BEAR PEN & LITTLE BEAR PEN

RAVENEL

SATULAH VISTA BRUSHY FACE

PILOT SUMMER

PINCHOT

LITTLE SHEEPCLIFF

BIG SHEEPCLIFF

STONEFLY

CHATTOOGA CLIFFS

PEREGRINE

HOLLY BERRY ESTATES FOUND

QUEEN MOUNTAIN

SAGEE WOODS BUCK

HORSE COVE

PILOT KNOB

BIG RIDGE

SUMMER COVE

STILLPOINT

BUCK KNOB ISLAND

TATER KNOB

PILOT MOUNTAIN SHEEPCLIFF

BEAR LAKE RESERVE

LAUREL FALLS

CHINQUAPIN

CASCADES AT CEDAR CREEK

PINNACLE RIDGE

FOUND FOREST SHEEPCLIFF

CEDAR CREEK WOODS/ESTATES

PINE FOREST & SPRING FOREST

CHATTOOGA RIDGE

GLENRIDGE

HIGH HEMLOCK

ZACHARY’S GAP ROUND HILL

LONESOME VALLEY

CEDAR HILL

CCSV

GOLF CLUB ESTATES

TIMBER RIDGE HIGH HAMPTON

WHITESIDE FOREST

WHITESIDE CLIFFS

INDIAN LAKE ESTATES

BALD ROCK/THE DIVIDE

FALCON RIDGE

PRESERVE AT ROCK CREEK LAKE TOXAWAY COUNTRY CLUB

FIVE STONE

HOLLY FOREST

DEER RUN

SASSAFRAS RIDGE

ARROWHEAD

WADE HAMPTON

CHATTOOGA CLUB

MOUNTAIN FALLS

BEAR WALLOW SPRINGS

BURLINGAME

WHISPER LAKE

OVERLOOK AT SAPPHIRE

TWIN FALLS

SILVER RUN RESERVE

CASHIERS • HIGHLANDS • GLENVILLE • LAKE TOXAWAY • SAPPHIRE • SCALY MOUNTAIN Scan to Learn More about the P L ateau

Las Vegas recently played host to one of the most anticipated events in the real estate industry: the annual conference of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Luxury Portfolio International. Held at the iconic Wynn Hotel, this prestigious gathering attracts a diverse array of real estate professionals from around the globe for a week of networking, education, and inspiration. Jochen Lucke, Founder and CEO of Silver Creek Real Estate Group, was accompanied by several of Silver Creek’s brokers — Parker Anderson, Julia Tatum Banner, Katie Nicholson, and Riva Smith. “We all returned to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau with new insights and forecasts for the real estate industry, which impact us locally,” stated Jochen. “Silver Creek’s representation in the real estate industry continues to shine as this year, Katie Nicholson was asked to speak at the Luxury Portfolio conference. Katie shared her insights on the Highlands-Cashiers

WYNN LAS VEGAS.

PHOTO BY BARBARA KRAFT 2009, COURTESY OF WYNN RESORTS. WYNNLASVEGAS.COM

word S by emily davi S photography by aj canaria

Plateau’s luxury market and what sets her apart from other brokers,” added Jochen.

Always a central component of the event, a discussion of trends in real estate helped our brokers to understand buyer priorities in a competitive market. This knowledge helps us to not only market a home for sale but act as the seller’s personal real estate concierge to help the property compete successfully for buyer attention.

WITH REGARD TO INTERIOR DESIGN, PARKER IDENTIFIES ‘QUIET LUXURY’ AS A LEADING TREND. “HOMEOWNERS ARE LOOKING FOR COMFORT AND PLENTY OF SPACE. TRADITIONAL DETAILS SUCH AS FINE WALLPAPER, GENUINE ANTIQUES, AND SUBTLE

DECOR THROUGHOUT ONE’S HOME ARE PROVING TO BE THE NEW QUIET LUXURY. AS DEMONSTRATED BY SOME OF TODAY’S MOST ELITE DESIGNERS, LESS VISIBLE BRANDING HAS BECOME A STATEMENT. A PRIVATE, GATED ESTATE NOT SEEN FROM THE ROAD CONTINUES TO BE DESIRED.”

With regard to the higher-end real estate market in particular, Katie reports, “Working from home is not going away; therefore, clients are looking for unique amenities in their homes, such as infrared saunas, cold plunges, and workout rooms, to take advantage of the time saved by not commuting to the office.”

Riva adds, “With sustainability driving consumer interests, features that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient are vital. Buyers are attracted to smart home technology with a focus on convenience and automation. They’re also looking for architecture that reflects its surroundings with natural, high-quality materials.”

In fact, the shift toward a more relaxed, natural mode of living was a theme that pervaded many of the discussions at the conference. Certainly, this is one of the trends driving new buyers to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and one that Silver Creek will continue to monitor so that we can best market our area homes to prospective buyers.

Riva recalls that “The shift from urban to nonurban locations for increased privacy and tranquility has emerged as a major market force.” Those living on the Plateau would likely agree that the past few years have witnessed a boom in local real estate as buyers flee the cities and find that they can work remotely while enjoying life in a resort-like location.

IN ADDITION, JULIA SHARES THAT SHE LEARNED, “OUR BUYERS ARE YOUNGER AND YOUNGER, AND THEY LIKE LUXURY. THEY LIKE LUXURY ITEMS AND REAL ESTATE BUT WITH VALUE. THEY’RE NOT SPENDING MONEY ON FRIVOLOUS THINGS, SO YOU MUST PROVIDE THEM WITH VALUE. OUR ABILITY TO INTERPRET INSPECTIONS AND ISSUES WITH PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. WE NEED

TO FOCUS ON NEGOTIATING SKILLS, RECOMMENDING OTHER PROVIDERS, AND PROVIDING OVERALL EMOTIONAL SUPPORT TO THE CLIENT AS THEY NAVIGATE THEIR HOME SALE OR PURCHASE.”

Parker echoes the emphasis on buyer experience. “Luxury isn’t just for the retired and ultrawealthy. We are beginning to see a younger luxury clientele spend more, not just on homes but on products and experiences as well. We already commit to providing that luxury experience to our clients, but it’s good to know that we’re going in the right direction!”

Silver Creek prides itself on providing a top-tier marketing strategy for each and every property listing, but continuing that commitment requires ongoing education. At the LeadingRE Conference,

real estate brokers were introduced to cuttingedge marketing techniques to help them remain competitive in a fast-paced digital landscape. At the same time, some methods are considered tried-and-true and will always form the backbone of client-broker relationships.

Katie says, “We learned about using social media and other digital platforms to generate attention for listings, but more importantly, that we should still pick up the phone and reach out to clients and prospects. The personal connection never goes out of style.”

Speaking of trustworthy mainstays of marketing, Parker reveals that “Print marketing is back, and it resonates with our clientele. That is something we never lost sight of, and it’s why we publish NC Living

magazine six times per year.” Indeed, Silver Creek clientele consistently reports that the magazine continues to provide a source of inspiration on the Plateau lifestyle and makes a fine addition to their coffee tables.

Riva agrees. “The use of social media platforms for marketing is essential and relevant in today’s society. However, print media continues to be important and is making a resurgence, particularly direct mail. Consistency is key, so deliver your message on a regular basis.”

With regard to creating those messages, Julia illuminates a key strategy: “Luxury is value. We must maintain an uncompromising focus on our

brand value and articulate that to consumers. Thoughtful storytelling creates an emotional bond to the home, the neighborhood, and the community most amenable to their lifestyle.”

WHEN CRAFTING THOSE MESSAGES, UNDERSTANDING BUYER MOTIVATIONS AND DESIRES REMAINS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT. THE CONCEPT OF LISTENING EMERGED AS A CENTRAL FOCUS OF THE CONFERENCE. KATIE PUTS IT SIMPLY: “LISTEN TO CLIENTS AND UNDERSTAND THEIR NEEDS AND PREFERENCES. DON’T SPEAK MORE THAN YOU LISTEN.”

Elaborating on that point, “Good listening always comes before good storytelling,” Riva says. “Along the same lines, you should seek to understand before you can be understood. Once you form that connection, it will help sell properties.”

That connection has always provided the central focus of relationships at Silver Creek Real Estate Group. Parker explains, “This conference was more of a solidification in understanding why Silver Creek sets the bar for the luxury real estate industry. It’s all in the details when it comes to offering a true luxury client experience, and details are one of the things we do best.”

He continues, “The opportunities we create through Luxury Portfolio International are limitless. In an increasingly global world, having the reach that we offer is more important than ever. Our contacts both nationally and globally are invaluable because connections are what sell luxury real estate.”

With attendees hailing from diverse backgrounds and regions, the annual LeadingRE conference provides a unique opportunity to interact with colleagues, exchange insights, and forge valuable partnerships on both a local and global scale. Silver Creek’s brokers returned from the trip empowered to elevate their marketing strategies and client service techniques, helping the firm to continue its position as a leader on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.

AS RIVA SAYS, “WE ALREADY DO A GREAT JOB PROVIDING A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FOR CLIENTS, BUT THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT. THE CONFERENCE SERVED AS A REMINDER TO ALWAYS STRIVE TO GO ABOVE AND BEYOND.”

BY SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP

Blue Bear Camp is the ultimate Adirondack-style mountain lodge just minutes from downtown Cashiers’ shopping and fine dining. This prime property borders the Nantahala National Forest, ensuring privacy and abundant wildlife. Another world awaits in the dream-like setting amid the wild Chattooga River, flowering landscaping, sparkling waterfall, and lush forest, all against the stunning backdrop of Whiteside Mountain and Devil’s Courthouse.

STONEFLY CASHIERS

LONESOME VALLEY

Elegance and sophistication prevail in this custom mountain home in Lonesome Valley. An outstanding example of Loudermilk Homes’ work, this exquisite home presents a rare opportunity for an exceptional, elevated mountain lifestyle. With five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two half bathrooms, privacy and comfort are assured for family and guests. Residents enjoy amenities such as hiking trails, fly fishing streams, a recreational lake, tennis courts, a pool, a disc golf course, and rock climbing.

Tucked away in the understated luxury community of Cedar Hill, this home is perfectly positioned to showcase striking views of the neighboring mountains, granite rock face, and lush forests. Enjoy elevated living with custom and thoughtful design that evokes feelings of opulence, comfort, and conviviality.

True to Loudermilk Homes’ style, this property exhibits the builder’s renowned craftsmanship and signature integration of smart technology.

CEDAR HILL CASHIERS

CEDAR CREEK

Explore your private wonderland on 67 acres in Glenville! This majestic Rocky Mountain log home provides the perfect, luxurious Blue Ridge Mountain retreat, with five ensuite bedrooms, stone fireplaces, a spacious kitchen, and expansive decking that invites you to savor the breathtaking vistas. Moss-covered trails wind through tree-canopied groves featuring crystalline streams and pristine swimming holes. Bring your vision and passion, and make this stunning estate yours.

GLENVILLE

Captivating views and exquisite craftsmanship are just a few elements of this custom Loudermilk Homes creation that will elevate your Plateau lifestyle. Situated on over 22 acres, you will have nature at your fingertips as you gaze out of the floor-to-ceiling windows at long- and short-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their exposed rock face. Cedar and stone accents give this modern rustic home a warm and inviting facade, while dormers and angled rooflines create a distinctive architectural style.

CEDAR HILL CASHIERS

CULLOWHEE FOREST

East meets West in this unique Greene-and-Greene-influenced, Japanese-style mountain getaway that offers the very best of Blue Ridge Mountain living. Situated on over 17 acres in the lush woods of the Cullowhee Forest community, this truly inspirational, four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom custom collaboration with MossCreek Designs emulates the simplicity and minimalism of traditional Asian architecture. The dwelling’s design efficiently utilizes vertical space to maximize its living area.

Located in Spring Forest, just minutes from Cashiers and Sapphire, this brandnew construction home is designed with an open floor plan to take maximum advantage of the mountain views. Two levels of living, with four complete suites, allow for luxe privacy. Wolf and Subzero appliances provide high-end touches to the kitchen. All furnishings are provided by Atelier Maison of Cashiers and are available for purchase outside of closing. Your dream mountain lifestyle could begin soon!

SPRING FOREST SAPPHIRE

CULLOWHEE FOREST

Imagine the possibilities! This unique, sprawling property consists of three parcels totaling over 38 acres, with multiple buildings such as a cottage, singlefamily home, lodge, and bunkhouses. This could make a great family compound, a commercial venture, or a mixed-use property. Enjoy the babbling creek and mountain views. Fiber optic internet is installed throughout the property, and multiple wells and septic systems are in place. It’s a must-see for someone with creative vision!

Experience the ultimate mountain retreat on 90+ pristine acres of breathtaking, unrestricted land just 8 miles from Cashiers Crossroads. At a high elevation of 3,700 feet, immerse yourself in the stunning long-range views. The land is perfect for outdoor adventurers, with trails, a pond, and a small log cabin with electricity and spring-fed water, which could be used as a guest house while you build your dream home. Take advantage of this opportunity to create a private family estate on this magnificent property.

BIG RIDGE GLENVILLE

WHITEWATER RIDGE

Seclude yourself in maximum privacy and enjoy a stunning view of Lakes Jocassee and Keowee in the distance! Located on over 5 acres adjoining the national forest, this roomy Sapphire home is designed for energy efficiency. An oversized deck, screened porch, and gently sloping lawn allow for time outdoors, soothed by the rushing sounds of waterfalls on Whitewater River. With most furnishings included in the sale, this turnkey opportunity could soon be yours.

Situated at 3,800 feet with a view of the Great Balsam Mountains, this Tim Greene-designed home stands as a testament to sophisticated design and meticulous execution. The main floor lends perfectly to entertaining with its gourmet kitchen, beamed cathedral ceilings, two majestic fireplaces, and floorto-ceiling windows. Three guest suites provide plenty of space upstairs. With 13 acres of privacy, a screened porch, and expansive decking, you can immerse yourself in luxurious mountain living.

BIG RIDGE GLENVILLE

BURLINGAME

Discover a lakeside gem on Lake Soquilla, boasting over 300 feet of lakefront serenity. Step into an elegant, freshly painted home featuring wall-to-wall lake views, a luxurious primary suite, and a chef’s dream kitchen. Enjoy modern conveniences such as new HVAC, a new roof, heated floors, and a grand outdoor deck. With top-tier amenities, including an expansive lower deck and private dock, it’s not just a home — it’s a lifestyle. Don’t miss this unparalleled retreat.

If you’ve ever dreamed of your own private mountain oasis, this is your chance. Ideally situated on two combined lots of 5.2 acres with Lake Cardinal and Cardinal Creek frontage, this secluded two-bedroom, three-bathroom home offers comfortable living space, a generous screened porch, hiking trails, and memorable views of the lake and Panthertail Mountain. A bonus living space with a private entrance offers versatility. Let your dreams run wild!

LAKE TOXAWAY ESTATES

BURLINGAME

Enjoy unparalleled mountain luxury at this four-bedroom, five-and-one-halfbathroom home. Stunning views are showcased by floor-to-ceiling windows and a grand stone fireplace. A chef’s kitchen, formal dining, and primary suite enhance the main level, with a screened deck for entertaining. The upper floor features private balconies, while the lower level boasts a family room with a wet bar, office, and two bedrooms. Elevator access, a playground, and a two-car garage complete this exquisite retreat.

WATERFALL COVE

OFFERED FOR $1,795,000

Revel in the sights and sounds of nature from your very own Lake Glenville retreat. With 230 feet of water frontage and the sound of nearby Norton Falls, you’ll be surrounded by an abundance of soothing, pristine water. This architectural masterpiece was designed by Dan Duckham with meticulous attention to detail. A partially covered deck, wood-burning fireplace, chef’s kitchen, and upscale touches throughout the home ensure your ultimate comfort. Relax into luxurious lakeside living!

MLS# 103994

CEDAR CREEKBREEDLOVE OFFERED FOR $1,699,900

Bring your ambition and let your imagination run wild! This unique mountain home, with 4 unrestricted acres and unparalleled views from 4,000 feet, offers the potential for multiple uses, such as a vacation retreat, multigenerational living, or a full-time residence. With a roomy floor plan on three levels, multi-level covered decks, and two separate entrances, you can bring the whole family or generate rental income.

MLS# 103771

CEDAR HILL

OFFERED FOR $1,600,000

Welcome to tranquil mountain living in the Cedar Hill gated community, just minutes from Cashiers. This fully furnished five-bedroom, five-and-onehalf-bathroom home features a spacious living room with natural light, a kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counters, and a primary suite on the main level. The upper level includes laundry and bedrooms with private bathrooms. The lower level offers a second living area, kitchenette, and two bedrooms. Unwind on two covered decks with mountain views.

MLS# 103758

STONE CREEK ESTATES

OFFERED FOR $1,599,000

Your mountain dream home is about to be underway! Slated for completion in 2025, this three-bedroom, threebathroom home in Stone Creek Estates of Sapphire will become your private sanctuary. Relish majestic, long-range views of Bald Rock Mountain, and ride your golf cart to nearby resort amenities. The floor plan is designed to blend seamlessly with nature and will be completed with high-end finishes, stacked stone, cedar shakes, and hardy plank. Act now and customize this home to your tastes.

MLS# 103375

CHIMNEYTOP ESTATES

OFFERED FOR $1,595,000

Imagine life in Chimneytop Estates, a secluded enclave of seven homes tucked behind the gates of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley. This home will become your private oasis of tranquility with its luxurious first-floor owner’s suite, deluxe chef’s kitchen, 10-foot ceilings, and gas fireplace. Take in views of the majestic mountain ridge line during the fall and winter months, and warm yourself by the gas fire pit on the porch. Resort amenities and restaurants are just moments away!

MLS# 104112

SPRING FOREST

OFFERED FOR $1,450,000

Escape to your private retreat in the clouds! At 3800 feet in elevation, Listening Point allows for breathtaking longrange vistas and short-range rock face views. The gently rolling property is tucked away on over five secluded acres with walls of windows to help you connect with the natural splendor just outside. This Lindal Cedar Home is awash in natural light throughout the home, and you’ll feel enveloped in comfort with warm wood touches, a stone fireplace, and the roomy, open floor plan.

MLS# 104059

MANTLE

RIDGE

OFFERED FOR $1,399,900

Welcome to serene mountain living within this luxury home set against a stunning backdrop in Mantle Ridge. The elegant floor plan features three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms situated on a 2.02-acre lot with a view of Shortoff Mountain. The primary suite, with its own screened deck and massive closet, will become your private haven. Meticulously designed by Summer House in Highlands, every corner of this residence exudes sophistication.

MLS# 103990

PILOTS KNOB OFFERED

FOR $1,300,000

Relish expansive mountain views from all four levels of your like-new home just a few miles from Lake Glenville! Completed in 2017, this property features high-end finishes throughout its sprawling floor plan. You’ll feel immersed in nature in the gated Pilots Knob community, where you can relax on your deck to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. This home features plenty of room for the whole family and would also make a great vacation rental.

MLS# 103947

HOLLY FOREST

OFFERED FOR $1,299,000

Bring the family together in this exquisite five-bedroom Sapphire Valley home, situated at a refreshing elevation of 3600 feet. Authentic touches like wood floors and knotty pine ceilings contribute to this home’s mountain charm, while two covered decks, a front porch, and an outdoor fireplace allow you to enjoy the great outdoors. Venture just minutes down the road to enjoy shopping, dining, and community amenities like swimming, tennis, skiing, the rec center, and much more.

MLS# 103698

HIGHLANDS COVE OFFERED

FOR $1,275,000

This beautifully remodeled and furnished Turning Leaf condominium is ready for your personal touches. Located behind the gates of Old Edwards Club at Highlands Cove, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is arranged on one level for simplified living. Two stacked stone fireplaces, new quartz countertops, a jetted tub, a wet bar, and numerous community amenities create a comfortable lifestyle. Relax on the covered, screened porch and enjoy views of the golf course and mountainous terrain.

MLS# 103433

HIGHLANDS COVE OFFERED

FOR $1,250,000

Meet this refined Turning Leaf penthouse, a fully furnished haven that seamlessly blends modern elegance with timeless charm. Enjoy stunning golf course panoramas and majestic mountain vistas from the elegant living room, bright and updated kitchen, and enchanting covered deck with a cozy fireplace. Guests will luxuriate in any of the three bedrooms and bathrooms. Take advantage of this opportunity!

MLS# 101873

TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB OFFERED

FOR $1,249,000

Embrace modern living in a recently renovated home while surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Glenville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. With an open floor plan, four bedrooms, and three-and-ahalf bathrooms, this comfy retreat offers room to spread out and enjoy expansive decking, three wood-burning fireplaces, and a fully updated kitchen. Invite your friends, dine al fresco, and relish your winter view of the mountains and surrounding lush landscape!

MLS# 103681

CHINQUAPIN

OFFERED FOR $1,200,000

Discover a custom cottage that is a true work of art and architectural design. This home offers a harmonious blend of elegance and functionality, featuring two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and one half bathroom. The charming potting shed caters to the green thumb, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts to embrace their passion for gardening, while a one-car garage offers convenience. Seize this remarkable opportunity to make this exquisite retreat your very own.

MLS# 102210

WATERFALL COVE OFFERED FOR $1,150,000

Discover a lakeside haven in this newly renovated rondette. Embrace the unique circular design, panoramic lake and mountain views, and modern upgrades, including granite countertops, an expansive kitchen island, and a cozy fireplace. This distinctive threebedroom, two-and-one-halfbathroom home features two levels of wrap-around decks, a sunlit primary bedroom, and a self-contained lower level ideal for guests. Dive into the lake from your private dock near Norton Falls, Lake Glenville’s largest waterfall.

MLS# 102615

PILOTS

KNOB

OFFERED FOR $1,024,000

Retreat to this lovingly maintained Glenville home, where you will find cool summers and fresh mountain breezes at 3,980 feet in elevation. Tasteful decor, wood floors, cathedral ceilings, and a stone fireplace invite you to unwind within this threebedroom home with an open floor plan and abundant natural light. Or, head outdoors to relish the stunning, rolling mountain views from the deck or by the fire pit or outdoor fireplace. This home is available furnished for a turnkey opportunity!

MLS# 103895

BOLD CREEK OFFERED

FOR $995,000

Indulge in streamside splendor at this three-bedroom, threebathroom escape. Seamlessly merging with nature, its intricate woodwork is sourced onsite. Features include cathedral ceilings, a doublesided gas fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, and a secret storage room. Revel in the primary suite’s expansive closet and balcony views. Enjoy tranquil Shoal Creek moments, vast decking, and proximity to Lake Glenville and Cashiers.

MLS# 102975

Picture yourself sipping coffee and taking in the breathtaking view of Hogback Mountain at sunrise. From its open floor plan to the expansive, two-level decking, this traditional home offers relaxation in every corner. The new main-level owner’s suite, with its loft and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame a breathtaking view, will become your own private haven. Located behind the gates of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley, this freshly updated home allows access to full resort amenities.

MLS# 103297

Find yourself enchanted by this updated, expansive Holly Forest Home. With three bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, and versatile bonus rooms, you’ll enjoy plenty of room for entertaining. This home’s southern exposure and airy great room create a warm and inviting ambiance. Relax on one of the three back decks and enjoy the cool mountain breezes and sounds of the trickling creek. With resort amenities just minutes away, this is the perfect opportunity to make memories in Sapphire Valley.

MLS# 104062

If you’re looking for the simplicity of a rustic mountain home combined with luxurious details, this is it! This Southland chink-groove log home provides three bedroom suites on the main level plus two bonus lofts. High-end finishes include white onyx and honed marble floors, a jetted tub, a clawfoot soaking tub, a steam shower, and brilliant light fixtures throughout. Enjoy views of Shortoff Mountain from your deck, or come inside to warm up by the wood-burning stone fireplace.

MLS# 104003

HIGHLANDS VIEW

OFFERED FOR $899,000

Located in the Highlands View neighborhood just ten minutes from downtown Highlands, this extensively renovated home is the epitome of refined mountain living. The gourmet chef’s kitchen calls for dinner parties, and a sprawling primary suite creates a perfectly luxurious sanctuary. Numerous upgrades throughout the home provide ultimate comfort. The one-level, split-floor-plan home includes the adjacent lot. Relax on the back deck and enjoy the view of Satulah Mountain in the background!

MLS# 103978

HOLLY FOREST

OFFERED FOR $837,500

Seclude yourself in your very own paradise, or enjoy all of the nearby private community activities. This home combines modern amenities and designer decor with a rustic mountain setting and stunning long-range views of Sapphire Valley’s mountains. Cozy up by the floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, hide away in the luxurious owner’s suite, or entertain in the elegant kitchen with its large pantry and wine cooler. Plenty of upgrades, a new roof, and full furnishings make this home move-in ready!

MLS# 103723

BALD ROCK

OFFERED FOR $825,000

Retreat to this exquisitely unique creekside residence in Bald Rock, an equestrian community bordering Panthertown Valley. Relax on the upper or lower deck and be soothed by the tranquil sounds of water, or cozy up by the stone fireplace on chilly evenings. This home features over $120,000 in custom upgrades, including numerous fixtures by Restoration Hardware. The stylish and carefully chosen furniture can be negotiated into the sale. Imagine a whole new life in this luxurious mountain getaway!

MLS# 104113

Offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort, this home truly encapsulates the essence of mountain living. Enjoy close proximity to town and Lake Glenville. Natural elements throughout the home, such as the stone fireplace, wood beams, and custom barn wood cabinets, seamlessly integrate the home with its wooded surroundings. The solid wood door and mountain laurel accents on the front porch add to its rustic charm and curb appeal.

MLS# 103902

Situated at Hole #7 of the renowned golf course, this exceptional Burlingame Country Club property offers an extraordinary lifestyle. Home chefs will relish the remodeled kitchen with granite countertops, a farmhouse sink, and built-in appliances. A split floor plan, loft space, and additional living space and bathroom over the detached garage provide private, flexible space to pursue your mountain living dreams. Relax on the covered, screened deck and enjoy the golf course view!

MLS# 103860

Located close to amenities, this one-level Burlingame home is made for easy living. A screened porch and open deck allow for time outdoors, and a stone fireplace provides comfort in any season. The split floor plan offers an owner’s suite with a walk-in closet and an updated bathroom plus two guest bedrooms and a bathroom. The kitchen provides space for large family meals with its island and granite countertops. A two-car garage and nearly level entrance make this home perfectly accessible.

MLS# 103888

BURLINGAME

OFFERED FOR $749,000

Are you looking for a fully-furnished turnkey opportunity in the Burlingame community? This private getaway, tucked into woods on a private lot, makes a perfect vacation home or year-round residence. A generous, open floor plan provides plenty of space with four bedrooms, two living areas, a media room, and even a bonus room. Cozy up by the stone fireplace inside or by the fire pit outside. Enjoy serene privacy on your wooded lot, with country club amenities available with optional membership.

MLS# 104057

HOLLY FOREST

OFFERED FOR $665,000

Discover a turnkey haven in Eagle Ridge, moments from Sapphire attractions. It features a refreshed, mountain-modern kitchen, an open layout, three main-floor bedrooms, and renovated bathrooms. The lower level is guest-ready, and outdoor delights await on the expansive deck. This dry, cared-for home with ample parking is close to the diverse Sapphire Valley Resort amenities. Modernized and furnished for immediate comfort (some exclusions apply).

MLS# 103100

BURLINGAME

OFFERED FOR $649,900

Capture this opportunity to own a maintenance-free Fairway Villas condominium ensconced in the popular Burlingame Country Club. The corner lot ensures that residents of this end unit enjoy maximum privacy, especially on the oversized deck and screened porch. An open floor plan and vaulted ceilings lend an atmosphere of lofty space, and the gas log fireplace provides atmosphere. The carport even includes space for your golf cart.

MLS# 103231

Embrace a luxurious lifestyle in this meticulously maintained three-bedroom, threebathroom condominium located within the Trillium Links and Lake Club. Enjoy golf course views from your porch, cozy up by the stone fireplace, or access the Clubhouse, tennis courts, pool, and more just minutes away. A bonus room can be utilized as an office or study. High-speed fiber optic provides a tempting amenity in the mountains! Take advantage of this terrific opportunity.

MLS# 103851

TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB

Tucked into the heart of Sapphire Valley, this charming Holly Forest home provides easy living in close proximity to the Sapphire Valley National Golf Course and community amenities. The open floor plan features two bedrooms and an updated bathroom on the main floor, with the remodeled primary suite tucked away upstairs. Recent upgrades include a new roof, exterior paint, heat pump, water heater, enclosed porch, and so much more. This home is ready for you to move right in!

MLS# 103357

Experience limitless potential on riverfront property. Fish directly from your yard in this versatile three-bedroom, two-and-one-half-bathroom home. The main and upper levels cater to distinct living, with the latter boasting a separate apartment. Enhanced by storage, a workshop, and ample parking, this estate is prime for residential, commercial, or recreational ventures. A truly multifaceted gem!

MLS# 102885

THE WOODS

OFFERED FOR $384,900

Escape to your private Sapphire Valley getaway! This three-bedroom, three-bathroom floor plan includes one suite on the main level. You’ll enjoy the secluded ambiance from your back deck. Recent upgrades include a new HVAC, kitchen appliances, a fireplace, pine floors, and much more. This townhome includes community amenities like golf, tennis, and Fairfield Lake. This townhome has been virtually staged to assist you in visualizing your mountain home.

MLS# 104020

SAPPHIRE VALLEY

OFFERED FOR $349,000

Situated in the welcoming Sapphire Valley, this comfortable two-bedroom, twobathroom end-unit condo is located just a short distance from the community lake and river. Updated in 2023 with new HVAC units, fresh paint, a full-size washer and dryer, and new decking. The kitchen features new Calacatta white quartz counters, new stainless sink and faucet, and new disposal in 2024. This unit is clean and ready for you to move in, with all the Sapphire Valley amenities just minutes away.

MLS# 103678

SAPPHIRE VALLEY

OFFERED FOR $329,000

MLS# 103094 NEWLY

Embrace modern luxury in this renovated, furnished residence boasting three spacious bedrooms with private balconies and impeccable views of Bald Rock. The open layout showcases a revamped kitchen, expanded deck, and sleek finishes. With access to Sapphire Valley Resort amenities, this property is a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, ideal as a personal retreat or as a rewarding investment.

Located in the Hilltop community of Sapphire Valley, you’ll be able to access all nearby amenities and restaurants within minutes. Enjoy a morning stroll down to Fairfield Lake! The condominium has been completely transformed with new paint, flooring, light fixtures, an HVAC system, appliances, and a renovated kitchen. Three bedrooms allow room to spread out and enjoy privacy in this top-floor end unit. This has been virtually staged to assist you in visualizing your mountain home. MLS# 103834

If you’re looking for convenient condominium living in Sapphire Valley, this is it! This twobedroom, two-bathroom unit has been refreshed with new paint, removal of the popcorn ceiling, decking replacement, and a new washer and dryer in the laundry room. Sapphire Valley amenities, such as the fitness center and swimming pools, are just a short walk or golf cart ride away.

MLS# 103940

Secure your dream start with this spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Cullowhee. Set on 1.7 acres of partially cleared land, it offers ample storage, a garden tub, a double vanity, and a workshop. Enjoy the convenience of being minutes away from Glenville and Cashiers. Your new chapter begins here! MLS# 103145

WHAT’S NEW AT HIGHLANDS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Since its inception in 1999, the Highlands Performing Arts Center (PAC) has entertained the town’s residents and visitors with a comprehensive schedule of live theatrical productions and concerts each year. In addition, live screenings from The Metropolitan Opera, documentaries from Great Art On Screen, and shows from the National Theatre of London have contributed to the cultural enrichment of our area.

This year will also welcome back first-run movies to the Plateau, providing a taste of Hollywood in our beloved mountains! Movie selections and times will be announced on the Highlands PAC website

and tickets can be purchased online or at the box office inside the Martin Lipscomb Theater. To learn more about the Highlands Performing Arts Center, visit highlandsperformingarts.com

CONCERTS AT THE PAC

Concerts at the PAC begin at 7:30 PM.

MOJO & THE BAYOU GYPSIES SATURDAY, MAY 4

Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies, a dynamic musical collective hailing from the cultural hub of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, is led by the magnetic Mojo. United, Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies craft an exhilarating musical voyage that celebrates Louisiana’s cultural roots while adding their own distinctive twist. Seamlessly blending traditional influences with Mojo’s innovative Red Hot Mojo Music, the band offers audiences an unforgettable journey straight to the heart of the Bayou. To learn more about Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies, visit redhotmojo.com

NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK & ROLL SATURDAY, JUNE 29

A behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating history of Rock & Roll, the music genre that changed the world forever. Neil Berg shares stories and tunes from the 1940s through the 1980s, including tributes to iconic acts such as Chuck Berry, Little

Richard, Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, Frankie Valli, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Motown, Aretha Franklin, The Who, Janis Joplin, Woodstock, Simon & Garfunkel, Carole King, Led Zeppelin, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Aerosmith, Linda Ronstadt, Bruce Springsteen, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Disco, New Wave, Journey, and more! To learn more about Neil Berg’s 50 years of Rock & Roll, visit neilberg.com

THE TEXAS TENORS

FRIDAY, JULY 5

You might have seen these classically trained, versatile tenors on NBC’s America’s Got Talent: The Champions. Recently inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, three-time Emmy award winners The Texas Tenors have embarked upon their 15th Anniversary Tour throughout the nation. Audiences are treated to a range of new music along with rousing patriotic favorites, in genres ranging from classical to country, for an unforgettable evening. To learn more about The Texas Tenors, visit thetexastenors.com

CHI-TOWN TRANSIT AUTHORITY

THURSDAY, AUGUST 15

An eight-piece tribute band founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2017, Chi-Town Transit Authority recreates the Chicago concert experience without any pre-recorded tracks. Choosing from an extensive catalog of Chicago hits dating all the way back to the 1960s, the band of highly dedicated musicians meticulously designs a show that involves the audience to bring down the house! To learn more about Chi-Town Transit Authority, visit chitownband.net

END OF THE LINE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

With sold-out shows throughout the Southeast, End of the Line has made a name for itself as the premier Allman Brothers tribute band — even earning an official endorsement from The Big House, the original band’s museum. Come out for a night of memorable tunes as we celebrate the legacy and ramblin’ spirit of one of the greatest classic American bands. To learn more about End of the Line, visit endofthelineband.com

DARREN NICHOLSON

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Darren has graced hallowed halls of country music’s sacred stages, The Grand Ole Opry

numerous times as one of the founding members of Balsam Range. After 15 years with Balsam Range, this wanderer, which is the name of his latest solo album, has broken out on his own and gripped listeners with powerful ballads. Don’t miss your chance to let your inner wanderer free for an evening. To learn more about Darren Nicholson, visit darrennicholson.net

MARK O’CONNOR’S AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS

FEATURING MAGGIE O’CONNOR

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29

Usher in the Christmas season with Mark and Maggie O’Connor as they share a repertoire of holiday tunes presented in a unique Appalachian style. Since their meeting in 2014, the couple have collaborated to produce an inspired collection of both original songs and reimagined popular melodies. Both Grammy award winners for their bluegrass performances in the O’Connor Band, Mark and Maggie are set to grace the stage for a festive show to kick off the holidays! To learn more about Mark and Maggie O’Connor, visit markandmaggieoconnor.com

FABULOUS EQUINOX ORCHESTRA

PRE-NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AND CONCERT

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30

Introducing your new favorite duo: Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, accompanied by their dynamic big band! Loved by audiences nationwide and beyond, these Southern gentlemen bring their infectious energy and the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra to the stage. Inspired by the legends of entertainment, they put their own spin on the Great American songbook with iconic melodies and captivating stories. From Motown to country, their diverse repertoire serves up a musical feast that delights every listener. To learn more about The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, visit equinoxorchestra.com

LIVE ON SCREEN AT THE PAC

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

SATURDAY, MAY 11

BEGINS AT 12:55 PM

Spectacular sopranos Aleksandra Kurzak and Asmik Grigorian take on the challenging role of Cio-Cio-San, the devoted geisha central to Puccini’s heartbreaking tale. Tenors Matthew

Polenzani and Jonathan Tetelman costar as the remorseless American naval officer Pinkerton, whose actions lead to her downfall. Sharing the role of Suzuki, the unwavering maid, are Mezzo-sopranos Elizabeth DeShong and Eve Gigliotti, while baritones Davide Luciano and Lucas Meachem portray the American consul Sharpless. Esteemed conductor Xian Zhang makes her Met debut, guiding Anthony Minghella’s vibrant production to life. To learn more about Madama Butterfly, visit metopera.org

FLEABAG (ENCORE)

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

BEGINS AT 1 PM

Written and performed by Phoebe WallerBridge (known for Fleabag and Killing Eve ) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag offers a captivating portrayal of a woman navigating life on her own terms. While Fleabag may appear sexually adventurous, emotionally raw, and self-absorbed, there’s more beneath the surface. As her relationships strain and her guinea pig café faces challenges, Fleabag finds herself at a crossroads, with everything to gain and nothing to lose. To learn more about Fleabag, visit nationaltheatre.org.uk

MOUNTAIN THEATRE COMPANY

Highlands' Mountain Theatre Company prides itself on serving up Broadway-quality productions in a cozy mountain town. From its birth as a community theater troupe in the 1930s, the organization has gradually matured into a fully professional theater company with an ambitious schedule of four shows per year. Each year, auditions can be submitted virtually through the Mountain Theatre Company’s website. These auditions allow the company to recruit talented actors, singers, and dancers to perform in Highlands, where audiences are delighted to experience a range of carefully curated and skillfully performed musicals.

The company endeavors to present a range of classic, well-known shows combined with fresh, new material, always with the goal of appealing to a broad audience. In 2023, they smashed previous attendance numbers, with a record number of theater-goers flocking to productions. Subsequently, the company was honored with 41 nominations from the 2023 BroadwayWorld Regional Awards in Charlotte, North Carolina.

While a separate organization from the Highlands Performing Arts Center, Mountain Theatre Company complements the PAC’s new state-ofthe-art venue as one of the resident professional theater companies. It showcases its talented performers along with outstanding set and costume design. Having occupied The Highlands Playhouse for many decades, the company made the move to the new PAC in 2023. The venue allows

for a greater range of creative freedom and accommodates an audience of over 250 attendees.

The performing arts are alive and well in Highlands, and Mountain Theatre Company is excited to announce the schedule for its 86th season on the Plateau.

To learn more about the Mountain Theatre Company, visit mountaintheatre.com

GREASE

JUNE 5 — JUNE 22

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey

Get ready to relive the magic of Grease with the Mountain Theatre Company! Featuring all the iconic tunes you adore, like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” “You’re the One That I Want,” and “Hopelessly Devoted To You,” this multi-Tony-winning spectacle has secured its place as a classic. Step back in time to 1959 with Rydell High’s senior class, where drive-in movies, sock-hops, and the sassy Pink Ladies defined an era.

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

JULY 24 — AUGUST 10

Book by Terrence McNally, music by Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman

Embark on an exhilarating journey with Catch Me If You Can , a sensational musical comedy inspired by the remarkable true story of Frank Abagnale Jr. Made famous by the hit film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, this highflying production captures the glamour and intrigue of the 1960s jet-set era. Follow young Frank as he flees home in pursuit of fame and fortune, using his charm and cunning to assume various identities, from pilot to doctor to lawyer. But when his audacious escapades attract the attention of the FBI, a thrilling global chase ensues, blending high-energy dance numbers with a captivating narrative.

THE BURNT PART BOYS

OCTOBER 11 — OCTOBER 26

Book by Mariana Elder, music by Chris Miller, and lyrics by Nathan Tysen

Set in an Appalachian mining town, The Burnt Part Boys features the heartwarming adventure of two brothers who, along with their friends, embark upon a journey to the site of a mining accident that claimed their father’s life years before. The heartfelt bluegrass-inspired score has inspired audiences since the musical’s debut in 2010.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

DECEMBER 6 — DECEMBER 22

Written by Scott Daniel and Matthew McGee

A town tradition in Highlands, Home for the Holidays promises to lead off the most magical season of the year with its original script, festive holiday music, energetic choreography, and

dazzling costumes. It’s a can’t-miss show for those visiting or living in Highlands this December!

HIGHLANDS CASHIERS PLAYERS

What’s a quaint small town without a local community theater troupe? Made up of actors from the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and beyond, the Highlands Cashiers Players make their own original contribution to the culture of the area while providing opportunities for enthusiastic residents to showcase their talents.

Founded in 1995 as the Highlands Community Players, the group later merged with theater lovers in their twin town of Cashiers. Together, participants from the two towns and surrounding areas are able to support four shows per year, along with their traditional holiday reading each Christmas season. The entire community is invited to participate in diverse opportunities such as acting, directing, set design and building, technical support, backstage assistance, and more. The organization’s needs are supported through volunteers, ticket sales, sponsors, and private donations.

With a motto of “good plays, well done,” the Players seek to entertain audiences with quality shows performed by recognizable members of their community, many with considerable professional and amateur experience performing both regionally and nationally. Also housed at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, shows are scheduled throughout the year with season tickets available for purchase. To learn more about the Highlands Cashiers Players, visit highlandscashiersplayers.com

ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID

THURSDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS

MAY 9 — 19

Written by Jones Hope Wooton.

Directed by Ricky Siegel

In this uproarious comedy, four lifelong friends pledge to uphold a vow made on the night of their Senior Prom: to stand by each others’ sides at their weddings, no matter what. Three decades later, these Southern belles are still honoring that pact, despite the chaotic twists and turns of love and matrimony. Always a Bridesmaid is an entertaining comedy that asks, “How far will you go to keep a promise to a friend?”

THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT

THURSDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS

AUGUST 22 — SEPTEMBER 1

Written by John D’Agata.

Directed by Michael Lanzilotta

Based on the book, The Lifespan of a Fact , this thought-provoking play follows the innovative essayist John D’Agata and fact-checker Jim Fingal. The saga begins with D’Agata’s rejected essay, which later evolves into his acclaimed work, About a Mountain . Over seven years, D’Agata and Fingal embark on a journey of arguments and negotiations, delving deep into the realms of “truth” versus “accuracy.” This play beautifully weaves comedic relief throughout the passionate battles, giving audiences a glimpse into the creative process merging with the harsh reality of fact.

HOLIDAY SPECIAL DECEMBER

Specific dates and details were not available at the time of publishing this issue. Please refer to the Highlands Cashiers Players website, highlandscashiersplayers.com , to learn more.

MAKING MEMORIES

Carved into the picturesque mountaintops above Lake Glenville in Cullowhee, North Carolina, Trillium Links & Lake Club beckons amateur and seasoned players to relish a serene but challenging golf course. Simultaneously, as one of the select clubs with access to the lake, it offers tranquil views of the water along with unique waterfront provisions. Together, the exclusive combination of golf, amenities, and direct lake access embodies the essence of mountain living at its finest.

Director of Membership Stetson Taylor describes Trillium as “One big happy family. We’re a closeknit bunch, but we love welcoming new people into the fold. I often joke that my kids have 350 grandparents.” With an average member age in the early 50s and many with school-aged children, one can easily imagine that joining the Trillium family will lead to decades of cherished memories. Even the staff members return year after year, with some retaining employment at Trillium for decades.

At the heart of Trillium lies its crown jewel: the Trillium Links championship golf course. Designed by renowned architect Morris Hatalsky, this 18-hole masterpiece winds its way through lush forests and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Golf enthusiasts of all skill levels are drawn to the challenging yet scenic layout, where they are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the mountains surrounding Lake Glenville. Whether teeing off against the backdrop of a blazing sunrise or sinking a putt beneath a canopy of autumn foliage, every round at Trillium is a memorable journey through nature’s grandeur.

Beyond the fairways, Trillium offers an array of lakefront amenities designed to indulge the senses and soothe the soul. The shimmering waters of Lake Glenville beckon guests to unwind and explore, whether by paddleboard, canoe, kayak, or boat. The club maintains 24 private slips for members to dock their boats on a first-come, first-served basis in the spring. Four rental boats — three pontoon and one wake — are also available. Trillium is one of the few clubs on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau, offering both an acclaimed golf course and Lake Glenville access.

With this spring’s exciting announcement, Trillium is set to expand its reputation as the area’s premier lake destination. The Landings, a lakefront restaurant and gathering place once beloved by

members, was tragically lost to a fire in 2023. But in a testament to the club’s spirit of survival and renewal, a newly designed facility is proposed for construction, with completion anticipated by May of 2026.

“This is huge news,” Taylor shares. “There’s nothing else like it on the Plateau and this rare community amenity will be a unique offering for the foreseeable future.”

RECENTLY PROPOSED FOR A MEMBER VOTE, THE NEW THREE-LEVEL WATERSIDE BUILDING WOULD FEATURE A RESTAURANT ON THE TOP FLOOR, LOOKING OUT OVER THE LAKE AND THE ROLLING MOUNTAINS BEYOND. ON THE SECOND FLOOR, A MULTIUSE SPACE AND A SECONDARY KITCHEN WOULD HOST MEMBER EVENTS, AND ON THE BOTTOM FLOOR, A KIDS’ CLUB WOULD KEEP CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN ENTERTAINED WITH AN ARCADE AND OTHER ACTIVITIES.

The plans include yet another exciting addition to Trillium’s expansive grounds: Members would soon enjoy Lake Glenville’s first-ever swimming pool on the shore. Complete with a hot tub and spacious deck, the outdoor recreation area promises to become a memorable gathering place for many years to come.

Beyond its physical offerings, Trillium fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its residents. The club hosts events catering to a variety of interests, with a full schedule of activities every day throughout the summer. Regular social events, such as wine tastings, whiskey dinners, holiday gatherings, and outdoor concerts, provide opportunities for neighbors to forge lasting friendships and create cherished memories together. Wine and Wickets provides a venue for friendly competition on the croquet lawn twice per week, while those who prefer indoor recreation can join in on bingo, trivia, or Mexican Train dominoes at the Clubhouse.

Speaking on the club’s extensive social calendar, Taylor exudes enthusiasm. “There is something going on every single night in the summer. One of my favorite events is Unwind & Dine every Friday, where we gather at the Clubhouse to enjoy beer, wine, a dinner buffet, and a live band. Sometimes I can’t believe this is my job!”

The season kicks off Memorial Day weekend, and this year, a thrilling tournament takes center stage. To celebrate the overhaul of their croquet lawn, transforming the former space into a full-sized tournament lawn, Trillium will host an impressive roster of players. US and World Champion Matthew Essick will attend, along with under-21 World Champion Edmund Fordyce, local croquet pro Darin Guffey, and Trillium member Jim Jamison.

From outdoor adventures to intimate gatherings, life at Trillium is defined by moments of joy, relaxation, and connection. In addition to the club’s offerings, members frequently organize their own group events. From bridge and Mahjong gatherings to book clubs and Bible studies, the opportunities are practically unlimited. For the more adventurous souls, outings to nearby hiking and mountain biking trails take advantage of the natural splendor that surrounds the club. Fishing enthusiasts delight in the abundance of bass, trout, and other freshwater species that inhabit Lake Glenville’s depths.

With membership extending throughout four generations of each member’s family — to their parents, children, and grandchildren — the club’s

dedication to youth programming ensures fun for youngsters and a bit of downtime for their parents. Each week during the summer, Trillium staff host movie and dinner nights for the kids, and parents welcome the respite to enjoy their own activities or a night out in the nearby towns of Cashiers and Highlands. Daytime events include color wars and foam parties for kids to expend their abundant energy.

For children ages three to ten, Camp Trillium provides a jam-packed schedule of activities. Teens can join Mountain Quest, an excursion camp offering excitement ranging from nighttime zip lining to paintball competitions to wake surfing on the lake. Day trips introduce teens to activities like whitewater rafting in Clayton, Georgia, and rock climbing in nearby Brevard.

“In the winter, those of us who are here will go sledding on the golf course,” laughs Taylor. While a feeling of luxury pervades the property, the focus is on family and fun. In fact, members voted on a casual dress code in the dining room so that the focus remains on personal connection.

That sense of connection can be felt throughout every inch of the sprawling 750-acre property, from the shores of Lake Glenville to the ridgetop trees.

Ensconced within a beautiful natural setting, with a wide variety of amenities and activities geared toward every interest, the club provides a one-ofa-kind experience that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. Whether a summer vacationer, weekend homeowner, or full-time resident, every member, from infants to grandparents, will find their heart’s home at Trillium Links & Lake Club.

For additional information about the club as well as the homes and lots available, contact Silver Creek Real Estate Group today.

OPPOSITE: THE CLUBHOUSE AT TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB

CENTER RIGHT: THE PROPOSED LAKE CLUBHOUSE AT TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB

BOTTOM RIGHT: THE PROPOSED LAKESIDE POOL COMPLEX AT TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB

CREATING CONNECTIONS

When sitting down to chat with Silver Creek broker Cassie Neal, it’s easy to see how she has built a successful career in real estate on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. At first, Cassie speaks with ease about her love of family and the mountains she calls home. She shares her clients’ enthusiasm for the natural beauty of the area, along with simple pastimes such as hiking, enjoying a warm fire, and going for an autumn drive. A shared enjoyment of the outdoors and the relaxed Plateau lifestyle undoubtedly helps her to connect with her clients on a personal level.

But as we transition to talking about real estate in particular, Cassie’s tone shifts to that of a sage businesswoman. With a focus on building relationships, providing top-notch service, and staying current on the latest industry trends, she presents herself as an expert on local real estate. A congenial personality combined with depth of experience clearly serves her well.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT LED YOU TO WORK IN REAL ESTATE.

“I grew up as a military child, which meant frequent relocations during my formative years. My journey started in Fort Lauderdale when I was just 5 years old, followed by a move to Alaska, where we lived for about six years. When I was 12, we relocated to Mountain Rest, Idaho, for a time before returning to Alaska. Eventually, we settled in Mesa, Arizona, mainly to be closer to my grandparents as they entered retirement.

Reflecting on my nomadic childhood, I believe that changing schools every year or two during critical stages of development greatly contributed to my ability to relate to clients from diverse backgrounds across the country.

During high school, I made a final move to the Western North Carolina area and stumbled upon Cashiers. I was captivated by the town’s

word S by emily davi S photography by courtney S nyder

WITH BROKER CASSIE NEAL

welcoming spirit and the rich tapestry of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls. This led me to decide that Cashiers was where I wanted to put down roots and raise a family.”

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A REAL ESTATE BROKER?

“I have been a licensed real estate broker since 2001. As many real estate agents do, I began my career with another firm to gain experience and knowledge before eventually transitioning to working as an independent broker. I spent valuable years learning, networking, and honing my skills which I feel were imperative in helping me

become the best broker possible for my clients — many of whom have returned to buy or sell when their needs changed.”

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK WITH SILVER CREEK?

“Silver Creek Real Estate Group caught my attention for several compelling reasons. First, the company’s outstanding reputation in the real estate industry, built on expertise, professionalism, and a proven track record.

Second, Silver Creek’s specialization in specific target markets, particularly regions like Florida and Georgia, where many of our clients originate, offered unique insights and networking possibilities within those markets.

Third, the company’s culture, values, and clientcentered approach, characterized by ethical practices and a positive environment, deeply resonated with me.

And finally, access to cutting-edge technology, marketing resources, and robust administrative support at Silver Creek ensured efficiency and excellence in serving my clients.”

WHEN YOU’RE NOT SELLING REAL ESTATE, HOW

DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING YOUR TIME?

“Like many Plateau residents, I find joy in life’s simple pleasures, such as gathering around the campfire with our family and dogs and savoring a delicious cup of coffee. I also take delight in playing basketball with my 8-year-old daughter, who has a great passion for outdoor activities — a fact that fills me with gratitude! I make a conscious effort to spend ample time outdoors, making the most of our beautiful weather by tending to our garden, embarking on hikes, and exploring the numerous lakes nearby. These moments remind me to cherish the little things and appreciate nature’s wonders.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON ON THE PLATEAU?

“That is a tough call between spring and fall because both are truly wonderful here in the mountains. Fall brings me so much happiness when the air starts to feel crisp, and I see the leaves turning to glorious shades of red, orange, and yellow.

However, in the spring, with the delicate pink and white blossoms of cherry trees and the bright greens of newly sprouted leaves, the Plateau transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, picnics, and exploring nature trails, which we love to do. Spring brings me an overwhelming sense of renewal and rejuvenation, which is perfect as this is the time when our busy season really ramps up, especially for new real estate listings.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FESTIVAL OR SPECIAL EVENT THAT TAKES PLACE ON THE PLATEAU?

“Without a doubt, the annual Outhouse Races at the Sapphire Valley Resort ski slope are one of the highlights of my year. It’s an absolute riot and never fails to leave me in stitches! Beyond the races, it’s a day filled with music, laughter, and mountain fun. If you haven’t experienced it yet, I highly recommend giving the Outhouse Races a try at least once. Just be sure to arrive early to secure a prime spot on the slopes for the best view of the hilarity unfolding!”

OUTSIDE OF THE PLATEAU, WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL?

“Given that I spent part of my life in the western region of the country, I have a fondness for returning there whenever I can. I occasionally miss the dramatic landscapes it offers. One place I’m eager to visit with my family is the Grand Canyon. I have seen it multiple times, but my family hasn’t had the opportunity to experience its magnificence yet.”

WHAT GOALS ARE YOU WORKING TOWARD IN 2024?

“In 2024, my goals for the second home market in the mountains are to expand market reach by targeting new buyer segments and to diversify property offerings in order to appeal to various budgets and preferences. I aim to enhance the client experience through personalized service, clear communication, and efficient transactions using technology solutions.

Strengthening my market positioning and branding as a specialist in mountain properties is also a priority, along with building strategic partnerships and promoting sustainability practices. Staying adaptable to market trends and regulatory changes is necessary for maintaining competitiveness and achieving success in the dynamic second-home market in the mountains.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING THEIR SEARCH FOR A HOME ON THE PLATEAU?

“Finding a knowledgeable buyer’s broker is crucial in our mountain real estate market. Many buyers may not be aware of what they don’t know until it becomes a problem, and by then, it could be too late. A skilled broker offers invaluable insight

into the local market, helping you understand the nuances and guiding you to determine the ideal type of community that suits your needs and preferences. My expertise can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successful real estate transaction.”

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING AS A BROKER?

“One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as a broker is the significance of cultivating strong relationships and delivering exceptional service to clients. Building trust and credibility through effective communication, honesty, and transparency is essential in the real estate brokerage business.

By consistently delivering results and understanding clients’ unique needs and goals, brokers can provide tailored solutions and confidently guide them through the buying or selling journey. This commitment to client satisfaction and personalized support is what truly sets successful brokers apart in the industry.”

CAN YOU NAME A MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER THAT STANDS OUT AS SOMETHING YOU’RE ESPECIALLY PROUD OF?

“In 2001, while I was immersed in my real estate studies and often commuting to Asheville for courses and exams to secure my license, my mother received a diagnosis of colon cancer. Balancing these challenges felt overwhelming, and I was tempted to give up. However, I persevered and ultimately achieved my goal. Sadly, my mother passed away that summer, never witnessing my success as a licensed real estate broker, which makes me sad. Nevertheless, I believe she looks down on me with a smile from above.”

limited resource, poses significant challenges that require careful management to ensure sustainability and equitable access for both human populations and natural ecosystems. By valuing and responsibly stewarding these precious resources, we can preserve the splendor and vitality of mountain environments for generations to come.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE AREA’S GREATEST RESOURCE?

“The area’s greatest resource is undoubtedly nature itself. The mountains offer a wealth of natural resources and beauty that enrich both the environment and the lives of those who inhabit or visit them. Water, as a vital and

828-226-0383

CASSIE@NCLIVING.COM

CASSIENEAL.NCLIVING.COM

ECHOES OF THE PAST

In the heart of Western North Carolina, a common thread weaves through local heritage, one that resonates with the vestiges of Scottish ancestry. “I’m part Scottish!” is a declaration worn with pride, a testament to the deep-rooted connection many North Carolinians share with the rugged landscapes and rich traditions of Scotland.

The ties between North Carolina and Scotland stretch far beyond familial lines and cultural exchanges. The Appalachian Mountains form an ancient geological bridge that extends from the heart of the American South, through New England and Canada, to the verdant terrains of the Scottish Highlands and even further, symbolizing a geographical connection that transcends time.

It’s a poetic reflection of history that, millions of years after the continents drifted apart, our Scottish ancestors traversed the Atlantic, settling within the mountain range that echoes their homeland. Often migrating in large, organized groups, they brought a rich history of culture and traditions that left an indelible mark on the region.

THE SCOTTISH STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE

Throughout recorded history, the spirit of independence has coursed through the veins of Scotland’s people. From the early resistance of the Caledonian tribes against the Roman Empire’s occupation to the medieval clan rivalries and their resistance to persistent encroachments by their southern English neighbors, Scotland’s narrative is one of relentless struggle for autonomy.

SCOTTISH HERITAGE IN NORTH CAROLINA

HIGHLAND DANCER AT THE BALLATER HIGHLAND GAMES.

PHOTO BY DAVID ANDERSON, COURTESY OF VISITSCOTLAND.

The reign of Robert the Bruce from 1306 until his death in 1329 marked a pivotal era. Under his leadership, Scotland emerged victorious in the First War of Scottish Independence, affirming its status as an independent kingdom. This period not only established a period of Scottish sovereignty but also set the stage for the Stewart (later Stuart) dynasty with the ascension of Robert II, Bruce’s grandson, entwining Scotland into the royal lineage of the British Isles for centuries to come.

The Stuart dynasty presided over a historic era that saw the unification of the English and Scottish crowns. However, the deposition of King James II in 1688 amidst escalating religious and political unrest ignited a series of Jacobite uprisings. Fueled by loyalty to the Stuart lineage as the legitimate sovereigns, these uprisings marked a tumultuous chapter in Scottish history. Despite passionate efforts, including those in 1689, the Jacobite cause faced crushing defeats in 1715 and 1719, leaving Scotland without their Stuart king and under English rule by German-born King George I of the House of Hanover.

The Jacobite spirit flared once more in 1745, when Charles Edward Stuart, grandson of King James II, known affectionately as “Bonnie Prince Charlie,” arrived from France to reclaim the British throne. However, this final endeavor culminated in the harrowing Battle of Culloden in 1746, where a decisive English victory quashed the Jacobite rebellion, closing a significant chapter in Scotland’s quest for independence.

THE SCOTS MIGRATION TO NORTH CAROLINA

The Ulster Scots, also known as the Scots-Irish, began migrating to America in the late 1600s, with substantial influxes continuing throughout the 1700s. The first significant Highlander Scots settlement in North Carolina was the Argyll colony, established in 1739. These pioneers settled in Cape Fear, laying the foundations for future Scottish communities in the region, eventually earning the moniker “Valley of the Scots.”

Gabriel Johnston, who served as the Royal Governor of North Carolina from 1734 to 1752, played a crucial role in encouraging migration. A Lowland Scot by birth, Johnston actively promoted resettlement opportunities in America. Through numerous letters sent back to Scotland, he highlighted the allure of the New World —

promising land grants, a favorable climate with a lengthy growing season, and the possibility of tax exemptions. His persuasive efforts successfully attracted thousands of Scots, eager for a fresh start.

The aftermath of the Battle of Culloden further accelerated Scottish migration to America. Following their defeat, the English Parliament enacted harsh measures aimed at quelling future rebellions and suppressing Highlander culture. Faced with adversity, these Scottish migrants, sometimes relocating entire communities, embarked on a journey across the Atlantic with hopes of securing economic prosperity and religious freedom. Their arrival and subsequent contributions would leave an indelible mark on the cultural and historical landscape of the New World.

Success in the New World fostered some loyalty to the British crown among Scottish settlers, while others maintained harbored resentment.

At the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge in February 1776, a regiment of Loyalists, comprised mainly of Scots, charged across the bridge toward Patriot forces. With battle commands issued in Gaelic, this event marked the final broadsword charge by Scottish Highlanders, far from their homeland and the wars of their forefathers. Within minutes, the Scottish Loyalists fell to Patriot cannons and gunfire. The battle represented the first significant Patriot victory in the American Revolution.

SCOTTISH INFLUENCE IN NORTH CAROLINA TODAY

America is a unique blend of cultures, a melting pot where the essence of various heritages melds into a singular American identity. Despite centuries of intermingling, the quest to explore one’s roots and cultural history remains a compelling pursuit for many.

In North Carolina, Scottish surnames are as common as the trees dotting the landscape. Names like Stewart, McCall, and Campbell pepper conversations, standing testament to the Scottish roots entwined with the state’s history. Advances in DNA technology have made tracing these ancestral ties easily accessible, fueling a global resurgence of interest in Scottish culture. This fascination has been further amplified by the portrayal of Scottish heritage in popular media, drawing eyes and hearts towards the wild beauty and rich traditions.

Enthusiasm for Scottish culture led to the establishment of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in 1956 by Agnes Morton and Donald McDonald. What started as an intimate clan gathering has blossomed into a spectacular event, attracting over 40,000 attendees to Linville each July. The games have become a cultural bridge, with clan chiefs journeying from Scotland to join Americans in celebrating their shared heritage. Participants don kilts and compete at tossing the caber, perform traditional Highland dances, drink Scottish whisky, and savor haggis, meat pies, and Scotch eggs. Vendors are always on hand to help shoppers determine their clan tartan and get fitted for a kilt.

The success of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games has inspired similar events across the United States, from Charleston, South Carolina, to Stone Mountain, Georgia. The Taste of Scotland Celtic Festival & Highland Games in Franklin is another highlight, offering a weekend of cultural immersion each June. Attendees can try their hand at traditional Highland sports, purchase Scottish delicacies, watch a sheepherding demonstration, shop for jewelry and other handmade crafts, and dance to Celtic music. And, of course, a pipes and drums band is on hand to provide the distinctive Scottish sound.

The town of Franklin even designed its own Franklin tartan, certified by the International Tartan Index, displayed in the Scottish Tartans

Museum and Heritage Center, Inc. Once located in the neighboring town of Highlands, the museum moved to Franklin in the early 1990s. As the only tartan museum in the United States, its exhibits explore a vast range of history, from prehistoric standing stones through tribulations of the Middle Ages and right up to Scottish immigration to North Carolina. Visitors can pick up a Scottish cookbook in the gift shop, purchase authentic wares, or order a custom-made kilt.

Afterward, a drive up to the aptly named town of Highlands is in order. Whilst winding your way through the misty hills of Appalachia to reach an elevation of

over 4,000 feet, you might feel as though you’ve reached the other end of the mountain range in Scotland. As you browse the quaint downtown shops, listen for the sound of bagpipes that occasionally drifts through the air, a haunting reminder of the enduring connection between North Carolina and Scotland.

Through festivals, museums, and everyday encounters, the legacy of Scottish heritage continues to enrich the American cultural mosaic, particularly in North Carolina. It’s a testament to the enduring power of ancestry and tradition in shaping our collective identity, bridging past and present in a celebration of shared heritage.

JOCHEN LUCKE

FOUNDER | CEO | BROKER

828-226-1126

JLUCKE@NCLIVING.COM NCLIVING.COM

With a bold entrepreneurial spirit and a firm belief that real estate is in his blood, Jochen Lucke has spent over two decades building his reputation as a skilled realtor, broker, general contractor, and developer — first in Southeast Florida and now on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.

His love of the mountains, paired with his love of family and community, brought Jochen to Western North Carolina. The decision to leave the sweltering heat and stressful environment of Fort Lauderdale for the cool, clean air and laidback atmosphere of Cashiers was an easy one.

Since making the move, he has become deeply involved in the community. He is past chairman of both the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Foundation and The Village Green boards. He has also served on the boards of the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, the Fidelia Eckerd Living Center, the Cashiers Community Fund, and the Highlands Performing Arts Center (PAC). Jochen and his wife, Adrienne, are members of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley and the Chattooga Club. He is also a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and is partnered with Haute Residence, an invitation-only luxury real estate portal. Jochen and his wife can be found on the golf course, croquet lawn, or dining in one of the area's fine restaurants.

Jochen is devoted to the Silver Creek credo of "Building Relationships, Delivering Dreams." Whether you are looking for your vacation home, your primary residence, or your dream estate, Jochen and his team of brokers are committed to finding the ideal property to fit your vision. Jochen has a firm grasp of the local real estate market while always keeping an eye on national trends. He has an innate understanding of the practice of purchasing and selling properties, both as a broker and a developer. He attributes much of his success to his tenacity and has negotiated and closed many deals from which others might have walked away. Jochen truly enjoys real estate and development and finds great rewards in the accomplishment of finding the perfect home for his clients.

DAN ALLEN

BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™

828-508-2107

DAN@NCLIVING.COM

DANALLEN.NCLIVING.COM

A member of the Silver Creek team since its beginnings, Dan has built a solid reputation as a skilled real estate professional and a consistent top producer. His dedication, knowledge of the area and market trends, and his strong work ethic make him the ideal broker choice for buyers and sellers alike to achieve their real estate goals. He possesses an innate understanding of what

draws families to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau just as he was after many summertime visits with family as a child.

In 1994, Dan was able to realize his lifelong dream when he set down roots on a mountaintop farm near Cashiers. Over the ensuing years he has been deeply involved in his community. As an advocate for animals and the environment, he previously served on the board of the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society and the Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance, and has supported the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust,

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Nature Conservancy, as well as Big Brothers Big Sisters and local law enforcement and first responder organizations. Always seeking new ways to better himself in the industry he loves, Dan is a member of the North Carolina Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors and recently retired from serving on the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors. He brings nearly three decades of experience with local builders, designers, contractors, lawyers, fellow brokers, and business owners together for a seamless real estate experience. He brings a fresh approach and genuine enthusiasm about our area to each new client he serves. His positive, straight-shooting perspective, vast local knowledge, honesty, integrity, and authentic interest in his clients’ satisfaction make him an invaluable listing and buying partner.

When Dan is not helping other families realize their dreams of living in NC’s Blue Ridge Mountains, he spends much of his time with his own family, friends, and two rescue dogs, and can be found enjoying a relaxing day at the lake, hiking, or biking local trails, gardening, foraging, or cultivating his farm. Dan is a respected member of the Plateau community and a welcome member of the Silver Creek Real Estate Group team.

PARKER ANDERSON

BROKER

828-200-2695

PARKER@NCLIVING.COM

PARKERANDERSON.NCLIVING.COM

Parker, a third-generation realtor from Northwest Georgia, is renowned for forging lasting client relationships. With six successful years in New Orleans’ dynamic real estate market, he now brings his expertise to Cashiers, serving as an invaluable asset to buyers and sellers across the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

Merging his love for real estate with a deepseated appreciation for the outdoors, Parker’s bond to the region is palpable. His ties are further solidified by his wife, Caroline, who shares a deep

history with Camp Merrie-Woode in Sapphire. Their family’s longstanding home in Cashiers and their 2017 wedding at High Hampton culminated in their decision to permanently settle in Cashiers in 2019, now raising their two young children amidst the region’s serene beauty.

An active community member, Parker serves as his HOA’s president, volunteers at the Village Green, and devoutly attends the Church of the Good Shepherd. While he cherishes moments spent fly fishing, hiking, or delving into books, family moments with Caroline, their son Reeves, daughter Frances, and two golden retrievers remain his utmost joy.

Possessing industry acumen, community ties, and unwavering dedication, Parker is the go-to realtor for the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

JULIA TATUM BANNER

BROKER

828-556-7745

JULIA@NCLIVING.COM

JULIABANNER.NCLIVING.COM

Helping clients find a little taste of home comes easily for Julia Tatum Banner.

Born and raised in Oxford, Mississippi where generational roots run deep, Julia's love of all things reminiscent of "home," was sparked by visits to her grandmother's national landmark home, Ammadelle. From family meals and heirlooms shared to architectural endeavors, her family left its mark on Oxford. Her grandfather even built the city's golf course, now the local park, and employed his five sons to make sure every golfer had a caddy for their game.

After receiving her fine arts degree with an emphasis in graphic design from the University of Mississippi in 2014, Julia went on to purchase Delta Grind, a family-owned business, in 2016. Her creative spirit found immense satisfaction in watching something hand-crafted turn into a beautiful final product — no matter the medium. Since taking over Delta Grind, Julia has successfully

reshaped the business model and continues to grow the company with the construction of a new commercial facility. You will find Julia and her grits featured in magazines such as NC Living , Garden & Gun, and Southern Living

Today, Julia and her husband Mac reside in Lake Toxaway where they run a successful construction company focusing on residential and commercial projects. They have found that the golf communities, friendly atmosphere, and breathtaking views make it easy to find a taste of home in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

From building lasting relationships to providing an unforgettable home-buying experience, Julia understands the intricacies of delivering on the dreams of her clients.  When she’s not working, Julia enjoys reading, gardening, entertaining with friends and exploring the local lakes and hiking trails with their two Great Danes, Grace, and George, and blue heeler, Gus.

CHRIS DUFFY

BROKER

828-526-6763

DUFFY@NCLIVING.COM

CHRISDUFFY.NCLIVING.COM

Denizens and regular visitors of the HighlandsCashiers Plateau recognize Chris’ voice the second they speak with him. That’s not surprising, as Chris was the voice of the Plateau for a number of years as the morning show host on WHLC

FM 104.5. Once you meet Chris, you’ll certainly never miss him again, as his 6’9" stature literally makes him stand above the crowd.

Chris was born in Germany and grew up in Washington, D.C. After studying at Georgia Tech and graduating from the University of Maryland, Chris moved to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where he lived for 22 years. In Canada, Chris worked as an on-air talent on numerous radio stations. He moved to Highlands in 2017 to take the job at WHLC. “I moved to the mountains to become the voice of Highlands, little did I know how much the HighlandsCashiers Plateau would speak to me.”

An avid cook, Chris attended Le Cordon Bleu, receiving a Certificat de Traiteur, and loves sampling all the culinary delights the HighlandsCashiers area has to offer. Chris quickly fell in love with the Plateau and decided he wanted to help other people enjoy our beautiful nature and live in our truly unique and amazing community. While he’s no longer on the air, Chris still gets behind the mic as the in-game P.A. announcer for Highlands High School basketball games.

DEBBY HALL

BROKER

828-200-4057

DEBBY@NCLIVING.COM

DEBBYHALL.NCLIVING.COM

For over three decades, Debby Hall, an Atlantabased interior designer, has transformed spaces throughout the Southeastern U.S. Showcased consecutively at the Atlanta Symphony Showhouse and Christmas at Callanwalde events, her work speaks volumes. At Silver Creek Real Estate Group, where the motto is “Building Relationships, Delivering Dreams,” Debby found her fit. With a profound ability to understand client needs, she harmoniously marries their vision with homes in locations like Atlanta, Highlands, Lake Keowee, and Daufuskie Island.

Transitioning into real estate was a natural progression for Debby. Her design insight aids sellers in positioning their homes optimally and provides buyers with perspectives often overlooked. Having collaborated with architects and builders, Debby’s insight spans from conception to interiors.

Now a full-time Plateau resident, she operates from Silver Creek’s downtown Highlands office. Debby, a University of Tennessee graduate with a bachelor’s degree in interior design, holds real estate licenses in North Carolina and Georgia. An active community member, she has volunteered

for the Special Olympics and served in various neighborhood associations.

Outside her profession, Debby relishes gardening and spending time with her family in Knoxville. Often spotted with her rescue dog, Gracie, she indulges in culinary experiments, treating friends to her innovative dishes.

Rick starting purchasing his own investment property in the Atlanta area. His interests in real estate lead him into the Cashiers and Sapphire Valley market, and he obtained his North Carolina Real Estate License in 2014.

The Lake Toxaway, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley areas have always been a huge draw for Rick and his family. Since the mid-90s, Rick and his family knew that one day they would like to own a second home where they could escape the heat and bustle of Atlanta. In 2008, they purchased a home on Lake Glenville where Rick, his wife, and three children — along with countless friends — have enjoyed the cool summers, beautiful fall colors, and the occasional snow during the holidays.

Rick obtained his Georgia real estate license in 1998. He worked at a commercial real estate firm, specializing in residential development land in both suburban and in-town land tracts. In 2002,

When Rick is not busy selling real estate, he can be found outdoors playing golf, boating on Lake Glenville, or enjoying a motorcycle ride. He remains an active member at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, where he has taught Sunday School to four-year-olds for the last 21 years. He enjoys his commitments to his communities and has participated on several boards both in Atlanta and in NC.

Philanthropic support is very important to Rick and his wife Lisa. Areas of specific interest include the University of Tennessee baseball program, the Auburn University baseball program, Camp Merrie-Woode, Friends of Lake Glenville, Cashiers-Glenville Volunteer Fire Department, Annandale Village of Suwanee, GA, the Chautauqua Institution in NY, and First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.

BAMBI

FAMOUS KAINE

BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™, CRS

828-200-4040

BAMBI@NCLIVING.COM

BAMBIKAINE.NCLIVING.COM

Raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia with her five siblings, Bambi spent her childhood years as an outdoor, sports, and animal enthusiast. Creating family memories at their lake home in the Poconos left an indelible impression on Bambi. Fulfilling a lifelong dream of returning to the mountains, destiny led Bambi and her husband Jeff to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau where they own a contemporary home in Sapphire.

of the World since 2007. Drawing from over a decade of experience in real estate, coupled with longstanding pharmaceutical sales, Bambi has built a reputation for her enthusiasm, integrity, and caring nature which is an asset for matching clients’ desires. It’s no surprise that she promptly

Complementing her nurturing personality, Bambi pursued a nursing degree at Villanova University. Upon accomplishing extensive clinical and nursing management expertise in the Tri-State area, Bambi was recruited to the pharmaceutical industry. She relocated her family to Sarasota, Florida, where she excelled as an executive sales consultant with both Merck and Novartis. Inspired by several family members in real estate, Bambi obtained and has held her Florida license with one of the Leading Real Estate Companies

became a reputable owner and property manager of luxury rentals in Sarasota.

Bambi is a dedicated community member who fosters philanthropic endeavors. She established a 501(c)3 scholarship and mentoring program for high school students in Florida. Her genuine love for children and young adults continues to shine on the Plateau, where she serves on the Board of Directors with The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau and volunteers with Girls on the Run of WNC. Bambi also serves the community through her position on the membership committee at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

Having lived in Pennsylvania, Florida, and now North Carolina, Bambi understands the experience of buying and selling homes and the benefits of mountain living. So, when not fulfilling the dreams of her clients, she may be visiting her son, Dane, and his new wife, Pamela, or spending time with Jeff and their friends at the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

EDDY MCDONALD

BROKER

828-421-8196

EDDY@NCLIVING.COM

EDDYMCDONALD.NCLIVING.COM

Eddy McDonald is not just a name, but a legacy built on expertise, passion, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Eddy's journey began with an innate talent for golf, which quickly transformed into a lifelong passion, eventually leading him to a distinguished career as a PGA professional. From the sunny stretches of Destin, FL, destiny brought him to the Highlands Falls Country Club in 1995. It wasn't just a change in job location; it was a profound moment of realization. As he took in the breathtaking beauty of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, he knew he had found more than just a workplace — he'd found home.

Recognizing an opportunity to merge his interest in development with his love for the region, Eddy pivoted to a rewarding career in real estate. His tenure at Highlands Cove, now known as the prestigious Old Edwards Club at Highlands Cove, spanned 13 transformative years. During this time, he played a pivotal role in shaping the community from its humble first home to the bustling haven it is today.

One of Eddy's most pronounced strengths lies in his relationship-building. He connects with buyers and sellers not just as clients but as lifelong partners in their property journeys. He prides himself on delivering unparalleled service, ensuring that every client is armed with the knowledge and resources they need to make empowered decisions.

Away from the hustle of property showings and closings, Eddy's heart finds solace in the company of his spirited young daughter, Sara. Together, they explore the manifold wonders of the Highlands-Cashiers region, whether it's hitting the perfect shot on the golf course, discovering new hiking trails, or simply soaking in the natural splendor that surrounds them. Eddy McDonald is more than a broker; he's a testament to passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community.

JODI MOORE

BROKER

828-482-2525

JODI@NCLIVING.COM

JODIMOORE.NCLIVING.COM

Emerging from the vibrant landscape of Palm Beach County, FL, Jodi Moore embarked on her real estate journey in 1999 with the esteemed Prudential Florida WCI Realty. From the very inception of her career, Jodi distinguished herself as an award-winning residential agent, setting high standards from her inaugural year.

Before her transition into the real estate realm, Jodi showcased her prowess in the corporate world. As the vice president of sales and marketing for a consumer product company, she was instrumental in driving a monumental growth of nearly 400% in sales over nine years. Her strategic leadership culminated in the company’s acquisition in a lucrative buyout, a testament to her business acumen.

2008 marked a significant turn in Jodi’s life when she and her family, enamored by its serene ambiance, chose Cashiers, NC, as their permanent abode. Her relocation further solidified her appreciation for the mountain lifestyle and its unique real estate opportunities.

Jodi’s core strengths resonate in her robust sales and marketing acumen, complemented by her adeptness in interfacing with a diverse clientele. This, coupled with her fervent passion for real estate, ensures she seamlessly bridges the gap between prospective buyers and sellers, fostering successful transactions consistently. Her expansive experience in sales, marketing, and relationship-building stands testament to her exemplary track record in the industry.

community, becoming a top-selling agent with a focus on land and new home build packages. With a passion for the outdoors and the mountain lifestyle, Katie loves helping clients find their perfect fit. Katie attributes her success to working closely with clients throughout the entire process, from learning about the area to finding their ultimate home, as well as handling the sale or construction of it.

Katie spends her free time hiking with friends and her dog, Bella. KATIE

828-399-1824

KATIE@NCLIVING.COM

KATIENICHOLSON.NCLIVING.COM

Raised in Dublin, GA, Katie Adams Nicholson graduated from college and moved to Atlanta in 2000. During her seven years at a real estate investment and management company there, she worked in the acquisitions department, seeking retail and commercial facilities in New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Atlanta.

After hearing about the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau for years while living in Atlanta, she took a leap of faith and moved in 2008 to work on a mixed-use project in downtown Cashiers. Although the project never came to fruition, Katie had fallen in love with the area and never left.

Katie met her husband, a local general contractor who was born and raised in the area, in 2009. She spent the next 10 years working at the Chinquapin management office and was handson with the development and growth of the

LINDA PRIDGEN

BROKER

828-507-3206

LINDA@NCLIVING.COM

LINDAPRIDGEN.NCLIVING.COM

Hailing from Fort Wayne, Indiana, and later relocating to West Palm Beach, Florida, Linda Pridgen cultivated fond memories with her family, reveling in the refreshing summers of the Cashiers area. Her bond with the HighlandsCashiers Plateau deepened as she matured, leading her to eventually embrace the region as her full-time home after a commendable 15-year tenure as a schoolteacher.

Transitioning her focus to the vibrant real estate landscape of the area, Linda showcased her managerial prowess by overseeing the Chattooga Club for an impressive two decades. Concurrently, she wore the hat of the on-site real estate broker, concentrating her efforts on esteemed establishments like Chattooga Club and Wade Hampton Golf Club. Her in-depth understanding of upscale properties, specifically within Chattooga Club, Wade Hampton, and High Hampton, seamlessly positions her as a valued asset to the Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

Away from her professional commitments, Linda has a penchant for literature, and the thrill of tennis and croquet invigorates her spirit. An active pillar of the community, she serves as a board member for the Friends of the Library, holds a position on the Vestry Board of The Church of the Good Shepherd, and fervently supports various charitable endeavors in the locality.

CHUCK SELF

BROKER, CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME

MARKETING SPECIALIST GUILD™

828-734-7302

CHUCK@NCLIVING.COM

CHUCKSELF.NCLIVING.COM

In search of mild temperatures and a place to unwind, Chuck Self made his first visit to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau more than 20 years ago on a summer getaway with his family. During that short visit, Chuck realized that Western North Carolina was where he wanted to be. The desire for the mountain lifestyle led him to search for property in the area for several years until he found the perfect piece of land on which to build a dream home.

Intended to be a second residence until Chuck's retirement, the home soon took precedence; the lure of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains inspired him to say “goodbye” to the intense pace, traffic, and heat of Atlanta when construction was completed. And so, the simplicity and splendor of full-time mountain living began.

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Chuck enjoyed a successful sales career in the television and entertainment industry, experiencing multiple relocations and finishing as vice president of sales for Raycom Sports in Charlotte and Warner

Brothers Television in Atlanta, before parlaying his corporate experience and skills into real estate more than a decade ago. A University of Missouri alumnus, Chuck is perennially one of the top real estate brokers on the Plateau.

When he’s not helping clients, Chuck enjoys hiking, golfing, fitness activities, cooking, reading, and boating on Lake Glenville. He is an active contributor to the Cashiers community, having previously served in board positions with the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, and the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors. Currently, Chuck serves as the President of the Blue Ridge School Education Foundation. He is a member of the club at Lonesome Valley and Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

He looks forward to mountain visits from his daughter in Atlanta and his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons in Nashville.

RAY TRINE

BROKER

828-506-8520

RAY@NCLIVING.COM

RAYTRINE.NCLIVING.COM

Ray Trine’s passion for all things real estate blossomed early in his life. After graduating with an accounting degree from the University of North Florida in 1971, he immediately launched his real estate career. Initially employed by Florida National Bank’s holding company, he later became CFO of American Federal Savings and Loan, financing homes and commercial properties and working on building and development projects. He quickly learned that he belonged out in the field making things happen, rather than crunching numbers in an office.

By 1982, the Trine family included five children, five dogs, and four cats. His quest for a better quality of life brought him to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, where he immediately recognized what an idyllic existence it would provide. He packed up his entire menagerie and moved from an oceanfront home in Atlantic Beach, FL, to his newly acquired farm in Glenville, NC. His family continued to grow, expanding to include llamas, donkeys, cows, goats, sheep, turkeys and chickens. Now with seven children and thirteen grandchildren, he knows he made the right choice!

Once ensconced in the mountains, Ray wasted no time earning his North Carolina Broker’s license. He went to work for one of the oldest real estate firms in the area, V.C. Smith Real Estate, which he bought outright two years later. He soon

made his mark as the #1 real estate office in sales and listings in the Cashiers area for many years running. Ray proceeded to shape the area with his active involvement in the sale of land tracts, as well as the development of many residential communities such as Bald Rock, Summer Hill, Glenshore, Trillium Links & Lake Club, Bear Lake Reserve, Bridge Creek, Glen Laurel, and Glen Pointe.

With such a large family, community involvement was also important to Ray. He has been president of the Blue Ridge School PTA, elected to the Jackson County School Board, and served on the Cashiers Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Lake Glenville and many private community boards and architectural review committees.

Coupled with his dedicated community involvement, Ray’s background in accounting, property development, and real estate sales has provided him with priceless insights into this unique area. Ray is the quintessential guide to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, offering personal experience, countless and fascinating local narratives, and seemingly limitless knowledge of mountain living. Ray is licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina. Ray is a seasoned professional who brings enthusiasm, vision, and over 45 years of experience to the team at Silver Creek Real Estate Group.

RACHEL WAVRA

BROKER

828-505-6190

RACHEL@NCLIVING.COM

RACHELWAVRA.NCLIVING.COM

Meet Rachel, your trusted Plateau real estate advisor. Originally hailing from Winter Park, FL, Rachel’s heart has always belonged to the stunning landscapes of Highlands, Cashiers, and beyond. Those childhood visits to her parent’s cabin ignited a lifelong love affair with the NC mountains. Together with her husband Tyler, Rachel made the bold decision to make the Plateau their forever home in 2017. Their family has grown to include two adventurous kiddos, Jackson (6) and Olivia (3), and a black lab, Bulleit.

With a background in the culinary & hospitality world, Rachel brings a unique blend of creativity and precision to every real estate transaction. Her keen eye for detail and dedication to personalized

service ensures each client finds their perfect slice of paradise. Alongside her real estate expertise, Rachel is an avid gardener, entertainer, and culinary enthusiast. She also enjoys spending time outdoors, live music, and taking advantage of all the Plateau has to offer.

As President of the Scaly Mountain Women’s Club and an active member of local organizations like Highlands Rotary International and Highlands School PTO, Rachel is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community she serves. Her commitment to giving back shines through in every aspect of her work.

Leaving behind a successful career in corporate HR, Rachel followed her heart back to the mountains, where she thrives on helping others achieve their real estate dreams. Her transition from director to trusted advisor speaks volumes about her dedication to fulfilling her true calling.

Whether you’re searching for your forever home, selling your property for top dollar, or looking to invest in the area’s booming real estate market, Rachel is your go-to guide. With unparalleled knowledge, unwavering professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping others, she’s the perfect partner for your real estate journey.

Embrace the perfect blend of mountain luxury and classic style with this expansive home on 1.15 acres in the renowned High Hampton community. This captivating property, with seasonal views of Chimney Top Mountain rockface, Hampton Lake, and the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, offers an unparalleled lifestyle with resort amenities. A seamless blend of natural materials — wood siding and a cedar roof, accentuated by stone and metal and set upon a meticulously landscaped yard with stacked stone border walls — paves the way to a refined, thoughtfully designed custom residence.

The heart of the home is the bright, airy great room with cathedral ceilings accented by wood beams that add warmth and character and a wood-burning stone fireplace. The adjoining screened outdoor living space enhances leisure and entertaining options. The roomy, farmhousestyle chef’s kitchen inspires culinary creation with stainless steel appliances, a double oven, and a sizable walk-in pantry with prep space.

Retreat to the luxurious primary suite with a spacious bathroom featuring a double vanity, soaking tub, walk-in shower, and water closet,

complemented by a generous dressing room closet and private patio access. Accommodating guests is simple as this home caters to every need with abundant spaces to spread out, including two additional main floor bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and an upstairs openconcept apartment with bedroom, sitting, and living areas and three closets — a perfect guest suite or hobby room.

An office with its own garden access adds functionality, bolstered by the built-in alarm and camera system with WiFi, ensuring peace of mind and connectivity. Three-zone heating promises maximum comfort; plentiful storage throughout, including a workshop and fully encapsulated lower level, promotes organization. Enjoy convenient access via a circular driveway and ample parking and storage for vehicles and outdoor gear in the substantial, two-and-onehalf car garage.

bedroom S four o ffered for $5,499,000

bathroom S four – and – a – ha L f

y ear b uilt

2020

word S by emily davi S

photography by courtney S nyder

Outdoorsmen who arrive on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau this Spring will be greeted by a brand new Brookings Anglers store on Cashiers Lake. The new space houses double the square footage of the former location, plus new amenities that provide an immersive browsing and shopping experience for both aspiring and seasoned fishermen.

A grand opening is planned for May 11. The festivities begin at noon, with a ribboncutting ceremony, a barbecue feast provided by Fork Grove Barbecue, and live music by Young Mountain Magic. Attendees can browse a wide selection of gear and accessories from top brands like Simms, Orvis, Patagonia, Sage, Scott, Yeti, and Fishpond. Brookings’ staff will be on-site to lend expert advice and help design your next fly fishing adventure. In

addition to the latest and greatest fly fishing equipment, store manager Matthew Canter says, “We’re selling experiences that will become lifelong memories.”

When asked to describe the typical experience for a beginning fly fisherman, Canter replies, “All you need to bring is your sunglasses and a good pair of socks; we supply everything else you need.” Brookings offers guided trips, with all equipment included, during which the primary goal is to “have fun and catch fish!”

For those who wish to learn more technical details, introductory courses and a full-day school are available. Staff recommend that first-time fishermen book a trip to “get their feet wet” and then participate in the fishing school to sharpen skills once a passion for fly fishing has taken hold.

For the more experienced angler, Brookings’ staff can cater trips depending on the desired experience. Those from out of town might feel curious about the more secluded, backcountry streams that are often local secrets in rural areas like Cashiers. Guides can also design trips around skill sets that the angler wants to develop, such as casting techniques, small stream techniques, net fishing styles, using dry flies, and more.

For those looking to expand their adventure off the Plateau, guides can arrange fly fishing trips to locations as farflung as Montana, Brazil, Argentina, British Columbia, and the Bahamas. Currently, the store’s anglers are scouting waterways so they can add Cuba to the list. “We always scout first,” says Canter, “so that we can be sure to provide a top-notch experience for our clients.”

All trips are coordinated with lodges geared toward fly fishing, such as the Agua Boa Amazon Lodge in Brazil, to ensure that the experience meets

and exceeds expectations. In addition to world-class fishing, the lodges provide five-star food and accommodations.

Participants can rest assured knowing they will return from their adventures to comfortable rooms and satisfying meals, with all details arranged for them.

FOR BROOKINGS GUIDES AND THEIR CLIENTS, “FLY FISHING IS MORE THAN JUST CATCHING FISH,” SAYS CANTER. “IT’S ABOUT INTERACTING WITH NATURE AND ENJOYING THE TERRIFIC NATURAL RESOURCES AROUND US.”

Those who visit the new Brookings location on Cashiers Lake should plan to kick back, relax on the outdoor deck, and stay awhile. In addition to the store’s retail space and

customized, guided excursions, the new space functions as a central meeting point for local and visiting fishermen.

The store’s Blue Line Bar features craft beers from Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company in Charleston, plus local brews from Whiteside Brewing Company in Cashiers, Innovation Brewing in Sylva, Burial Beer Company in Asheville, and more. With a fireplace and TVs on the back deck, a view of the lake, and horseshoe pits just outside, Brookings provides a cozy spot to hang out, share fishing stories, and perhaps fib about your largest catch. It’s more than a store; Brookings is a hub of excitement where expert consultants help you design your next adventure.

For more information about Brookings Anglers, visit brookingsonline.com

TROMBONE

A SOUTHERN SENSATION

PHOTO BY EMILY BUTLER

Along the charming streets dotted with historic landmarks in Charleston, South Carolina, lies a cultural gem that attracts artists, performers, and spectators from around the world. The Spoleto Festival USA, an annual celebration of the arts, has captivated audiences for over four decades with its eclectic blend of music, theater, dance, and visual arts. As one of the most lauded arts festivals in the United States, Spoleto promises to enrich the cultural landscape of Charleston with worldclass performances and creative energy from May 22 to June 9 — transforming the city into a premiere arts destination this spring.

A FESTIVAL OF TWO WORLDS

The origins of the Spoleto Festival in Charleston can be traced back to its Italian counterpart, the Festival of Two Worlds (Festival dei Due

Mondi) in Spoleto, Italy. Founded in 1958 by composer Gian Carlo Menotti, the festival quickly gained acclaim for its innovative approach to showcasing a diverse range of artistic disciplines. Inspired by the success of the Italian festival, Menotti sought to create a similar cultural event in the United States.

Thanks to its rich history and vibrant arts scene, Charleston was chosen as the inaugural location for the American counterpart of the festival in 1977. Since its inception, festival organizers have maintained their commitment to fostering creativity, celebrating diversity, and promoting artistic collaboration.

One of the highlights of this year’s festival is the presentation of several world premieres and commissions, offering audiences the opportunity to experience groundbreaking new works firsthand. These innovative productions push the boundaries of artistic expression and reflect the festival’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.

A MULTIFACETED CELEBRATION OF THEATER, MOVEMENT, AND MORE

Theater aficionados are treated to a diverse array of theatrical productions that span genres and styles ranging from classic dramas and Shakespearean tragedies to cutting-edge experimental theater. The 2024 lineup will host the world premiere of Ruinous Gods , a commissioned original opera that portrays the traumatic experience of displaced refugees, promising to deliver a groundbreaking and thought-provoking experience. Also premiering is the original play

The Song of Rome by Denis O’Hare and Lisa Peterson, so described: “‘Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it,’ but who is allowed to tell the story? What truths do the classics hold, and what has been obscured?”

From breathtaking ballet performances to innovative modern dance works, the festival’s dance program pushes the boundaries of movement and expression, captivating audiences with creativity and athleticism. This year, Benjamin Millepied and L.A. Dance Project collaborate to present the inventive multimedia interpretation of Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet Romeo & Juliet , performed with a live orchestra.

Casus Creations, a contemporary circus company hailing from Australia, presents the North American debut of Apricity . This captivating stage production combines aerial apparatuses, acrobatics, music, and humor, promising a mesmerizing experience for audiences. In another avant-garde production, Tony Awardwinner John Cameron Mitchell joins forces

with cabaret luminary Amber Martin to present Cassette Roulette . This unique event promises an interactive evening filled with songs, stories, and characters, all determined by the whims of fate and the audience-spun roulette wheel.

Festival organizers include a variety of acts to allow families to expose their children to the arts. Lightwire Theater, semi-finalists on America’s Got Talent, will enchant audiences with their rendition of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story, “The Ugly Duckling.” Featuring stunning handmade electroluminescent costumes and evocative choreography, set to a musical backdrop spanning classical to pop genres, this performance promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

A GENRE-BENDING MUSIC LINEUP

Whether it’s a stirring rendition of a classical masterpiece, an experimental fusion of musical genres, or plain ol’ rock ‘n’ roll, the music program at Spoleto never fails to dazzle and delight audiences. This year, audiences will be entertained by acts like Jason Isbell, Old Crow Medicine Show, Trombone Shorty, Amos Lee, Watchhouse, and many others who grace the stages of Charleston.

Also in the lineup, cellist Yo-Yo Ma is set to perform a brand-new program, a follow-up to his June 2023 performance. That moment marked the culmination of a five-year expedition spanning six continents, driven by his quest to uncover the significance of culture in society. Yo-Yo Ma invites the Spoleto audience to reflect on life’s profound questions through his artistry and unique perspective: What has led us to this moment? And what choices will shape our path forward?

A DAZZLING DISPLAY OF VISUAL ARTS

Visual arts enthusiasts at Spoleto can explore exhibitions featuring works by contemporary artists from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations, and interactive art experiences. The festival’s visual arts program seeks to highlight the breadth and diversity of contemporary artistic practice. Marion Square blossoms into a vibrant open-air market, showcasing the talents of local artists.

With 54 artists on-site to engage with visitors, the Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor Art Exhibition provides a unique opportunity to connect with our local visual arts community. Whether you’re seeking a new addition to your collection or simply admiring the creativity on display, this event offers a delightful experience for all.

Beyond the performances and exhibitions, the festival offers educational programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. Through partnerships with local schools, cultural organizations, and community groups, organizers strive to make the arts accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Educational initiatives such as student matinee performances, artist residencies, and master classes foster a deeper appreciation for the arts while inspiring future generations of artists.

In addition to its mainstage productions, the Spoleto Festival USA features a rich array of fringe events and free outdoor performances, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. From street theater and circus acts to pop-up concerts and art installations, the festival’s diverse lineup of events celebrates the vibrant culture of Charleston and showcases the creativity of artists from around the globe.

CREATIVITY, COLLABORATION, AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE

As the sun sets over Charleston, the magic of Spoleto comes to life, illuminating the city with the vibrant colors and sounds of the arts. With its eclectic lineup of events, world-class talent, and stunning venues, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration of the arts unlike any other. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or experiencing this Southern sensation for the first time, there’s something magical about stepping into the world of Spoleto and being transported by the power of live performance.

With each passing year, the Spoleto Festival USA reaffirms its position as a cultural treasure and a beacon of artistic excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the city of Charleston and all who attend.

For more information about Spoleto Festival, visit spoletousa.org

TOP LEFT: DOCK STREET THEATRE. ©2024 SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. SPOLETOUSA.ORG

CENTER: SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA ORCHESTRA. PHOTO BY LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY. ©2024 SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. SPOLETOUSA.ORG

BY SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP

BALD ROCK

Live a life of luxury in the stunning community of Bald Rock, where larger estate lots offer the perfect blend of privacy and equestrian paradise. Nestled against the National Forest, this lot provides breathtaking views and easy access to scenic trails for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Ownership of this property grants access to both the community and Sapphire Valley’s amenities. Take advantage of an opportunity to build your mountain dream home in this exceptional community.

10.05 ACRES | $399,000 | MLS# 103446

BRIDGE CREEK

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to build your custom home on a relatively flat, nearly two-acre lot close to town! Located less than ten minutes from the heart of Cashiers, Bridge Creek provides proximity to a number of clubs including Trillium Links, Mountaintop, GlenCove, and Highlands Cove. With selective trimming, you can enjoy a good longrange view. The private, gated community features a picturesque pond and boasts a chimney garden — the perfect place to gather with new neighbors and forge lasting friendships.

1.87 ACRES | $69,000 | MLS# 103711

BUCK CREEK

A rare find on the Plateau, it’s difficult to find a large tract of land close to Highlands at this price! Imagine the unbridled potential with over 16 acres of land. Subdivide it and build several homes, or create your own legacy estate. With an active creek, several small waterfalls, springs, and potential long-range views, this is the perfect site for a quintessential mountain estate. Downtown Highlands is just ten minutes away, offering shopping, fine dining, and entertainment.

16.52 ACRES | $299,000 | MLS# 101585

BURLINGAME

Established in 1983, Burlingame is a private club and master-planned community in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Burlingame Country Club lies at the heart of the development and features an exquisitely appointed clubhouse with three dining rooms and two lounges, as well as a 24-hour fitness center, a top-ranked championship 18-hole golf course, four Har-Tru tennis courts and one hard court, heated swimming pool, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Sapphire, North Carolina, real estate opportunities in Burlingame range from

scenic riverfront homesites and luxury mountain view homes to rustic lodge-inspired condos that line the golf course.

345 HIDDEN LANE

5.15 Acres | $520,000 | MLS# 102355

LOTS 4&5 HERITAGE DRIVE

5.47 Acres | $520,000 | MLS# 102356

LOT 108R ROCKHOUSE FALLS LANE 2.2 Acres | $299,000 | MLS# 103808

103769

LOT 1 HERITAGE DRIVE 2.05 Acres | $275,000 | MLS# 103764

LOT 2 HERITAGE DRIVE 1.61 Acres | $275,000 | MLS# 103768

CASHIERS

The historic Waddell/Hanks estate in Cashiers, North Carolina, overlooks Fowler Creek and Wade Hampton Golf Club’s 7th and 8th holes. Located among private clubs in a luxury home area, this property offers the opportunity to build a custom compound, multiple estate homes, or an upscale cottage development. With few building restrictions, this property presents an exceptional opportunity. The 12.16-acre property consists of contiguous parcels of 3.41 acres, 0.64 acres, and 8.11 acres. UNDER CONTRACT

12.16 ACRES | $4,200,000 | MLS# 100839

CEDAR CREEK WOODS

Wooded lot in Cedar Creek Woods offering a tranquil lifestyle with rolling hills and lush forests. At an elevation of over 3,200 feet, it enjoys cool temperatures and stunning mountain views. The lot features mature trees, native flora, and a stream. The community provides access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing, and nearby towns offer retail and restaurant options. It’s an excellent investment for building a new home.

4.19 ACRES | $80,000 | MLS# 103855

CEDAR CREEKBEE TREE

Immerse yourself in nature with this 22.47-acre property, featuring serene flora, waterfalls, and frontage along Webb Lake. As part of the Webb Lake Association, owners have access to a shared 10-acre parcel with cabins. The gently sloping tract can be subdivided up to three times, offering multiple potential homesites. Less than 15 minutes to Cashiers Crossroads, this property offers privacy, space, and convenience. Enjoy beautiful fall foliage, crisp mornings, and mountain sunsets!

22.47 ACRES | $1,650,000 | MLS# 102954

CEDAR HILL

Situated between Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, the Cedar Hill community is upscale and gated, offering its residents awe-inspiring views and the very best in luxury living in the mountains of North Carolina. Whether searching for the latest in elegant mountain construction or a very special lot to call your own, Cedar Hill will not disappoint. An easy hike from your backdoor will lead you to the natural splendor of waterfalls set amongst a backdrop of hardwoods. Be one with nature, but enjoy the modern conveniences of underground utilities available to all homesites and a short drive into town.

Homes in Cedar Hill provide residents with access to all of the amenities of nearby Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley, including golf, swimming, tennis, fitness, and much more.

LOT V1 EAST RIDGE ROAD

24.34 Acres | $899,000 | MLS# 101235

LOT V3 EAST RIDGE ROAD

22.97 Acres | $850,000 | MLS# 101234

LOT 14 EAST RIDGE ROAD

1.21 Acres | $375,000

CEDAR RIDGE ESTATES

Discover tranquility in this sprawling 4.26-acre estate in Cedar Ridge Estates, offering a cleared homesite at 3,400 feet elevation, short-range mountain views, and streams. The lot, surrounded by trails, is near a waterfall and the Horsepasture River. With a new four-

bedroom septic permit, water system, and easy access to utilities, it’s ready for your dream build. Benefits include low HOA fees and optional memberships at nearby clubs. A blend of natural beauty and convenience awaits!

4.26 ACRES | $79,000 | MLS# 96955

CHATTOOGA CLIFFS

Measuring 2.33 acres, this lot within the Chattooga Cliffs community offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home in Cashiers, with stunning views of Whiteside Mountain and Devil’s Courthouse. At an elevation of over 3,700 feet, this lot provides breathtaking vistas without needing steep, winding roads. With the village of Cashiers minutes away, you’ll have easy access to shopping, dining, activities, and more. Don’t miss out on creating a luxurious in-town residence on this coveted property!

UNDER CONTRACT

2.33 ACRES | $249,000 | MLS# 98584

CHATTOOGA CLUB

With an upscale, family-friendly club atmosphere against the backdrop of the beautiful natural scenery of the property’s 200 acres, real estate opportunities at the Chattooga Club offers something for everyone, from quaint cottages to lavish custom homes and estate-sized homesites.

You may feel like you’ve taken a step back in time to a bygone era when you play on its beautifully maintained croquet lawns. The Club’s Life Enhancement Center lives up to its name by offering a variety of the latest fitness equipment, classes, and personal trainers, paired with a world-class spa featuring relaxing and indulgent offerings like body massage, facials, manicures, and pedicures. Enjoy gourmet dining in luxe surroundings at the Chattooga Club Lodge or relax with a drink and watch the game in the charming Bear Bar.

Additional club amenities include two heated saline swimming pools, three Har-Tru tennis courts, active children’s programs, hiking trails, and flower and vegetable gardens, plus a fully stocked trophy trout lake, firepit, playground, and henhouse. A scenic picnic area at Mac’s View offers stunning vistas of Whiteside Mountain and gorgeous afternoon sunsets. Seven beautifully appointed guest suites in the Lodge

are available on a year-round basis for family and friends of members. Club membership is by member referral and board approval only.

0 GORGE TRAIL ROAD

25.5 Acres | $5,950,000 | MLS# 103748

LOT 6 GORGE TRAIL ROAD

4.3 Acres | $950,000 | MLS# 96849

LOT 5 GORGE TRAIL ROAD

4.5 Acres | $950,000 | MLS# 96848

LOT 2 GORGE TRAIL ROAD

3.22 Acres | $750,000 | MLS# 97078

LOT 7 GORGE TRAIL ROAD

2.91 Acres | $595,000 | MLS# 96442

CHINQUAPIN

Chinquapin’s amenity-rich community provides the ultimate mountain lifestyle with a reverence for the natural landscape, tucked away atop one of the highest points of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. True to their mission, nearly one-third of its 2,000 acres is kept in a conservation easement, preserving the community’s environment. Property owners have access to lake and stream fishing, canoeing, a disc golf course, a driving range, a clubhouse with a fitness room, and new pickleball courts. A major draw for those who love the outdoors is the on-site access to miles of hiking, UTV, and equestrian trails. Flat Creek winds through Chinquapin and past the horse stables. Fiber-optic internet is installed throughout the community, allowing you to connect and disconnect at your leisure.

LOT P5 SPRINGWATER ROAD

4.69 Acres | $625,000 | MLS# 102665

LOT D52 SPRINGWATER ROAD

9.4 Acres | $575,000 | MLS# 101139

LOT P3 SPRINGWATER ROAD

6.519 Acres | $575,000 | MLS# 103159

LOT S7 STACK ROCK DRIVE

1.44 Acres | $475,000 | MLS# 103329

LOT D54 SPRINGWATER ROAD

5.462 Acres | $415,000 | MLS# 103239

LOT C59 LODGE WOODS TRAIL

2.93 Acres | $389,000 | MLS# 103695 UNDER CONTRACT

| MLS# 101355

LOT N11 OUTPOST TRAIL

0.55 Acres | $158,000 | MLS# 98913

LOT 98 BLAZING STAR DRIVE

1.91 Acres | $149,000 | MLS# 102621

LOT S9 REDROCK TRAIL

0.53

LOT N12A OUTPOST TRAIL

0.48 Acres | $109,000 | MLS# 102985

CROSS CREEK PRESERVE

Cross Creek Preserve, a gated community, embraces a low-key, well-maintained atmosphere with a charming covered bridge entrance and multiple common areas dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Ideally positioned between Cashiers and Highlands, it shares proximity with upscale neighborhoods like Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club, Old Edwards Club,

Glen Cove, Trillium Links & Lake Club, and Norton Overlook. The nearby Town & Country General Store supplies you with provisions for mountain living. With just 24 estate-sized home sites and a handful of million-dollar-plus homes already constructed, Cross

Creek stands as a hidden gem, a mere 5.5 miles from the Cashiers Crossroads.

Building a residence in Cross Creek requires a minimum square footage of 1,800. The construction process is facilitated by the inclusion of underground utilities and the availability of a community water system hookup at the roadside. An expired three bedroom septic permit is on file. Enjoy gated community living with low POA fees and water usage included.

CULLOWHEE FOREST

Cullowhee Forest is a gated community focused on nature, large lots, and a pristine mountain feel. Surrounded by lush forest, these properties sit at a 3,600-foot elevation, making them ideal locations for a temperate mountain getaway. Some views may be possible with tree-trimming. High-speed internet is available via a recent fiber-optic cable installation. The private community common area is arguably one of the prettiest in the area, providing direct access to the headwaters of the Tuckasegee River — an ideal spot for fly fishing — and private access to an unbelievable community waterfall greater than 100 feet tall. Miles of additional hiking trails, including High Falls Trail, are directly accessible from the common area. Two adjacent lots are available.

LOT 16 CULLOWHEE FOREST ROAD

3.41 Acres | $39,000 | MLS# 103098

LOT 17 CULLOWHEE FOREST ROAD

3.13 Acres | $39,000 | MLS# 103099

CULLOWHEE MOUNTAIN ROAD

Discover the tranquility of this 37.12-acre haven, offering rolling pastures, wooded expanses, and the gentle murmur of Gem Creek. Perfect for an estate, horse, or cattle ranch, it provides a lush canvas for your dream mountain home, potentially overlooking westward mountain views. Enjoy unrestricted freedom, all just

20 minutes from Cashiers’ vibrant amenities. This property embodies serene mountain living — a rare find awaiting your vision. Grasp the opportunity to craft your ideal retreat.

37.12 ACRES | $1,150,000 | MLS# 101994

CULLOWHEE

RIVER CLUB

Welcome to the Cullowhee River Club, where this sunlit 0.195-acre lot awaits your dream mountain home. Secluded at the end of a tranquil cul-de-sac and perched above the Tuckasegee River, immerse in the calming river melodies and potential long-range mountain vistas. Enjoy community amenities, all just minutes from Western Carolina University and the iconic Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. With public sewer available, envision a seamless build in this enchanting North Carolina enclave.

0.195 ACRES | $165,000 | MLS# 103055

DEER RUN

Great amenity lot in Deer Run with winter mountain views. Public sewer and public utilities available. Comes with Sapphire Valley Resort amenities including three heated swimming pools, a fitness center, tennis, pickleball, a playground, miniature golf, gem mining, and so much more. Check with your own resources to confirm building costs and buildability of lot.

0.22 ACRES | $1,000 | MLS# 103397

FIVESTONE

Beautiful lot in the gated Fivestone community offers stunning mountain views and a gentle building site at a 4,100-foot elevation located near Panthertown National Forest. It features private roads, a new water system, underground utilities, fiber internet, and low ownership fees. It comes with a four-bedroom septic permit valid until February 2028. Benefits of ownership include access to Sapphire Valley Resort amenities like golf, tennis, pools, fitness center, skiing, and Lake Fairfield.

4.1 ACRES | $195,000 | MLS# 104082

GLASS ROCK FARMS

Enjoy mountain views from this 1.11-acre lot! Build on this mountain knoll sitting at over 3,800 ft. elevation. Conveniently located about 10 minutes from the Cashiers Crossroads. Glass Rock Farms is a small community with streams meandering throughout, only a 1,250 sqft minimum building requirement

with light restrictions (no modular or mobile homes allowed). The buyer will need to drill a well, apply for a septic permit, and have electricity run from Bee Tree Road to this lot.

1.11 ACRES | $35,000 | MLS# 104043

GLEN LAUREL

Huge views of Lake Glenville and the mountains. Access to Lake Glenville with shared dock. Paved roads and community water. Underground utilities. Frontage on two community roads. Lot is very close, less than 1/4 mile, from a public boat launch. So you can easily put in and take out any watercraft. If you’re looking for it all — view, lake, and elbow room — this is it.

1.88 ACRES | $39,500 | MLS# 101618

GOLF CLUB ESTATES

Welcome to an exquisite vacant lot, poised for realizing your dream home amidst incredible long-

range mountain views in Golf Club Estates behind the gates of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley. This 0.65-acre lot presents a rare opportunity, equipped with a fourbedroom septic improvement permit and a recent survey, ready for you to build your mountain sanctuary. The views here will

take your breath away, showcasing the long-range beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the stunning Sapphire Valley.

0.65 ACRES | $198,500 | MLS# 103713

HIGH MEADOWS

Create your own piece of paradise! Build your dream mountain getaway on this 4.1-acre parcel located within the High Meadows community just a short drive from High Hampton, Wade Hampton, Chattooga Club, and the charming village of Cashiers. This lot provides end-of-road privacy and gently sloping terrain. You’ll enjoy serene Blue Ridge Mountain views, hiking and equestrian trails, a community pavilion and garden, and fiber optic internet within this tranquil gated community.

4.1 ACRES | $195,000 | MLS# 104022

HIGHLANDS

Introducing an unparalleled lot nestled on Highlands’ south side, bordering vast national forest land. Enjoy direct access to trails, waterfalls, and vistas, all while benefiting from no HOA restrictions. A soothing creek enhances this serene setting, just 10 minutes from downtown Highlands. Savor the perfect blend of nature’s tranquility and town amenities. Craft your dream home on this unique lot and enjoy the best of both worlds.

1.17 ACRES | $125,000 | MLS# 102791

HIGHLANDS COVE

Located in the Old Edwards Club, this lot offers excellent long-range views without the drive of being up higher on the mountain. Enjoy a wonderful location close to the front entrance and club amenities. Club membership is not required but can be purchased from OEC at additional cost.

0.74 ACRES | $235,000 | MLS# 103164

HIGHLANDS VIEW

Escape to the mountains, where this 1.95-acre parcel at 2900 feet in elevation will provide cooler temperatures and abundant natural scenery. Situated on a moss-lined street in the Highlands View community, you’ll be located just ten minutes from downtown. This lot backs up to USFS land, so you’ll feel immersed in a tranquil forest while enjoying the convenience of a neighborhood.

1.95 ACRES | $99,735 | MLS# 104002

Picture your dream home nestled onto this lush, .37acre lot in the tranquil Highlands View community just ten minutes from downtown Highlands. With the neighboring 22 acres on the Eastern side of the property managed by the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, you will enjoy the serenity and privacy of living next door to land that will never be developed. Come view this lot and imagine the possibilities!

0.37 ACRES | $29,900 | MLS# 104018

HOLLY FOREST

Holly Forest is a collection of subdivisions featuring beautiful Western North Carolina mountain homes, homesites, and condominiums. It is the largest single-family and condominium community on the mountain. Holly Forest is located within a short drive to the unique shops, world-class dining, and distinctive culture of the resort village of Cashiers. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby picturesque National Forest with waterfalls, overlooks, hiking and walking trails, and a wide range of flora and fauna.

The Holly Forest community provides residents access to the incredible Sapphire Valley Master Association amenities. These include the 50-acre Lake Fairfield, the 18-hole PGA Sapphire National Golf Course, a ninehole golf course (additional fees apply), one indoor and two outdoor swimming pools, ten tennis courts, a health club with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, boating and fishing on the lake, horseback riding, a game room, massage services, miniature golf, a ski and tubing slope, musical concerts and more. Sapphire Valley is also home to two private golf and country clubs, the Country Club of Sapphire Valley and Burlingame at Sapphire Lakes.

LOT 35 BUCKBERRY DRIVE NORTH

0.87 Acres | $34,000 | MLS# 103619

LOT 59 NARROWS ROAD

0.55 Acres | $29,000 | MLS# 103970

LOT 91 BALD EAGLE COURT

0.36 Acres | $22,000 | MLS# 103632

LOT 37 ALDER COURT

0.53 Acres | $15,000 | MLS# 103547

LOT 136 BUCKBERRY DRIVE NORTH

0.67 Acres | $8,750 | MLS# 103401

LOT 89 WEST CHRISTY TRAIL

0.8 Acres | $8,000 | MLS# 103876

LAKE TOXAWAY ESTATES

A beautiful, wooded lot located in the premier, private community of Lake Toxaway Estates. The 1.37-acre property features winter views of Lake Toxaway and Lake Cardinal. Access to the lake and marina - as well as Lake Toxaway Country Club (membership by invitation) - is limited to Lake Toxaway Estates property owners. Build your dream mountain home and be a part of the modern-day story of Lake Toxaway, a retreat with a history of drawing some of America’s most distinguished guests! 1.37 ACRES | $175,000 | MLS# 100695

LAUREL FALLS

This large lot offers great potential for mountain views, a stream that cascades down the lot, and lush flora, all within the gates of Laurel Falls. At nearly 3,800 feet you’ll experience cool summers in a dramatic temperate rainforest setting. The top of the lot features a natural build site that should afford some stunning mountain views. An old logging road gives access to a lower portion of the lot, and the bottom can be accessed via Trimble Ridge. Build your mountain escape in Laurel Falls!

13.76 ACRES | $115,000 | MLS# 99041

LONESOME VALLEY

Escape to this lot in the luxurious Lonesome Valley subdivision, offering gentle slopes, mountain ridge views, and a tranquil stream. Perfect for building a dream retreat or peaceful getaway, the property is part of one of Western North Carolina’s premier communities, spanning nearly 800 acres. Amenities include hiking trails, fishing streams, a lake, a boathouse, tennis courts, a fitness barn, a pool, a disc golf course, and rock climbing. Don’t miss this chance to own a piece of paradise.

2.37 ACRES | $650,000 | MLS# 101762

Private lot near Long Lake perfect for building your dream mountain cottage, offering a rock face mountain view and a small stream. It’s located in Lonesome Valley, a gated community with amenities like a fitness center, pool, tennis courts, hiking trails, fishing spots, a recreational lake, disc golf, rock climbing, and a playground with a zip line. Residents get priority access and pricing at Canyon Spa and Canyon Kitchen. Seller has home design renderings for the lot.

0.67 ACRES | $339,000 | MLS# 103606

MANTLE RIDGE

Unveiling Lot 4 in Mantle Ridge, a pristine, 2.22-acre mountain canvas, primed for your dream retreat. Boasting potential for panoramic views of serene peaks and valleys, it lies minutes from Cashiers and Highlands. With electric and water lines ready at the road, the pinnacle building site ensures mesmerizing vistas and a solid foundation. Envision your tranquil mountain abode amidst nature’s grandeur.

2.22 ACRES | $175,000 | MLS# 103991

Welcome to Lot 5 Mantle Ridge, a sprawling 3.26-acre blank canvas, brimming with potential for unrivaled mountain views. Set within the tranquil Mantle Ridge enclave, it balances serenity with proximity to Cashiers and Highlands. Thoughtfully prepped for utility connections, this lot’s prime build site ensures optimum views and a sturdy foundation. Whether envisioning a serene vacation retreat or a permanent haven, harness this rare opportunity to design your dream amidst nature’s grandeur.

3.26 ACRES | $155,000 | MLS# 103992

NORTH NORTON

Large, unrestricted parcel near Cashiers offers flat and gently sloping terrains, perfect for residential uses. Surrounded by lush foliage and wildlife, the property features springs, walking trails, and views of Lake Glenville with selective tree trimming. Ideal for investors or those wanting a secluded compound, there’s ample space to build with no HOA or deed restrictions. The property is close to Cashiers and numerous hiking trails. Seize this rare opportunity to create a private paradise!

35.45 ± ACRES | $1,125,000 | MLS# 103934

PILOTS KNOB

Pilots Knob is a gated community not far from Lake Glenville, where one can purchase a dock slip and keep a boat in the water. Residents enjoy awe-inspiring

long-range, layered mountain views and cool summer temperatures at an elevation of over 3,500 feet. This new community offers paved roads, community green space, a pond, a fire pit, and low HOA fees. Pilots Knob is just a short drive from the shopping and dining of Cashiers or Highlands.

LOT 59 BEECHFERN DRIVE

0.9 Acres | $59,000 | MLS# 102946

LOT 56 BEECHFERN DRIVE

0.74 Acres | $23,900 | MLS# 102618

55 & 55B BEECHFERN DRIVE

0.95 Acres | $17,900 | MLS# 102943

PILOT MOUNTAIN

Sloping lot that would make an ideal location for your mountain getaway or full-time residence. Potential for excellent long-range views. Located within a gated community with easy access from Highway 107.

1.05 ACRES | $12,000 | MLS# 103284

SASSAFRAS RIDGE

Seize this unique opportunity to build a legacy mountain home! Two lots, one bordering national forest, combine to create 34 acres of maximum privacy behind the gates of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley. Customize your personal oasis atop a knoll at 4,100+ feet, surrounded by lush forest, rockface views, and a 300-degree long-range vista of the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. A second build site allows for a guest cottage. Schedule a tour and bring your dreams. They’re about to come true!

34.29 ACRES | $1,100,000 | MLS# 103592

This large lot features beautiful panoramic views over the Sapphire Valley, including Bald Rock and the Balsam Mountains beyond. Located on the ridge at an elevation of over 4,100 feet so that you can enjoy the cool summer temperatures. Centrally located, Sassafras Ridge offers easy access to the numerous amenities of both Cashiers and Sapphire.

2.68 ACRES | $495,000 | MLS# 102798

SHEPHERDS MOUNTAIN

Experience serene mountain living on this 4.72-acre lot, nestled within the gated Shepherd’s Mountain community. This parcel offers potential views of Lake Glenville and mountains, with a stream and a walking trail leading to a building site. The community features paved roads, underground utilities, a communal

center with a playground, exclusive lake access, view spots with seating, and proximity to recreation areas and marinas. This tranquil retreat is ready for your dream mountain home!

4.72 ACRES | $87,000 | MLS# 100467

SIMS VALLEY

At the turn of the 20th century, Willis and Laura Sims settled in a high valley with clear 40-mile vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains in the west. They built a rustic mountain home, lived off the land, and raised their six children here. Today, the valley is home to Sims Valley — a unique mountain community built in the same spirit as the Sims family homestead. It is a place of beauty, a place for families, a place where residents live in harmony with the nature that surrounds them.

Located between the historic towns of Cullowhee and Cashiers, Sims Valley provides its homeowners with the feeling of living within a national park, rather than a resort community. Intersected by winding nature

trails, designed by Trail Dynamics (who often design for the National Park Service), Sims Valley offers many opportunities to let their residents’ spirits soar with the natural splendor that is housed within this one-of-a-kind property. The peaceful sound of cascading waterfalls, the exotic fragrance of mountain laurel and native wildflowers, and the awe-inspiring sight of the

Smokies blend together for an exceptional outdoor experience. Go shopping or dining in Cashiers or Highlands, explore Nantahala National Forest, take a boat ride on Lake Glenville, or enjoy the many amenities that Sims Valley has to offer.

The Sims Family Homestead still stands and now serves as a community gathering place. In fact, there is no shortage of places for the community to gather together at Sims Valley. The Mountain Clubhouse contains a fitness center and spa, swimming pool, large great room with fireplace, caterer’s kitchen, outdoor grill, and two outdoor fireplaces, paired with some of the most amazing views available at the property. The Mountain Chapel — located at the north end of the property — offers an open-air gathering place for Sims Valley residents to enjoy a picnic, a roaring fire in the outdoor fireplace, or breathtaking vista of the valley and the mountains beyond.

LOT 27 AUTUMN BLAZE TRAIL

0.886 Acres | $78,000 | MLS# 103078

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SPRING FOREST

Discover unparalleled mountain luxury in the prestigious Spring Forest enclave. This prime vacant lot, blessed with sweeping mountain vistas and year round sunshine, is the canvas for your dream retreat. With utilities at the ready, a four-bedroom septic

permit in place, and mere minutes from Cashiers’ charm, it promises both convenience and seclusion. Embrace a life of grandeur, low-maintenance living, and proximity to amenities. Your mountain haven awaits in Spring Forest.

2.38 ACRES | $550,000 | MLS# 102998

STONEFLY

Located just 1.2 miles from the center of Cashiers, the gated community of Stonefly provides convenient proximity to town combined with the seclusion and natural surroundings that one expects from a Blue Ridge Mountain community. Homesites ranging from 1 to 5 acres are thoughtfully placed within the development, sheltered by a lush canopy of hardwood forest and bordered by trickling streams.

Nature lovers venture out their front doors and find themselves comfortably embraced by the native rhododendrons, mountain laurels, reflective ponds, and cascading waterfalls ever-present throughout the neighborhood. With just over two dozen homesites, Stonefly provides an intimate setting for a tranquil mountain paradise, only minutes away from shopping, dining, public golf courses, and other amenities.

LOT 16 ZEB ALLEY ROAD

2.61 Acres | $395,000 | MLS# 103755

LOT 10B STREAMSIDE DRIVE

1 Acres | $295,000 | MLS# 103754

LOT 1B STREAMSIDE DRIVE

1.1 Acres | $245,000 | MLS# 103753

LOT 1A STREAMSIDE DRIVE

1.07 Acres | $239,000 | MLS# 103752

LOT 2B FLY FISHING LANE

1.38 Acres | $230,000 | MLS# 103750

STRAWBERRY HILL

Great opportunity to build your mountain dream home in the lakefront community of Strawberry Hill. Exceptional views of Lake Glenville, London Knob, and the mountains beyond. Tennis courts, boat storage, and community pavilion. Build your dream home here.

1.19 ACRES | $79,500 | MLS# 98982

SUMMER HILL

Just a few minutes from Cashiers, North Carolina, discover a secluded mountain getaway on Lake

Glenville. This lot in Summer Hill, on the shores of the highest-elevation lake east of the Mississippi River,

provides lake and dock access via an annual lottery. Enjoy clear, cool waters, wooded mountain views, and nature’s soundscape of rushing waterfalls. This property provides the canvas to paint your dreams.

1.21 ACRES | $295,000 | MLS# 104071

Located in the peaceful and secluded Summer Hill subdivision, this 1.58-acre gently rolling lot provides an easy building site for your dream home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The private neighborhood includes a gated entrance and deeded lake access to Lake Glenville, located just seven miles from Cashiers. Enjoy the community dock, beach, boat ramp, and two pavilions for picnics and family gatherings, or seek adventure on the many hiking trails. Call today to schedule a private showing.

1.58 ACRES | $139,000 | MLS# 102261

THE PRESERVE AT ROCK CREEK

Enjoy amazing mountain views from your future dream home all year from this 5-acre lot that offers expansive long-range views, beautiful sunsets, and a level build site. Located near Sapphire Valley and Lake Toxaway, The Preserve at Rock Creek is a protected, upscale gated community that guards against future development and provides the utmost privacy and

convenience. Owners have exclusive access to hiking trails leading to waterfalls. Don’t miss this chance to own a piece of paradise!

5 ACRES | $375,000 | MLS# 98076

TRILLIUM LINKS & LAKE CLUB

Incredible gentle rolling lot located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac boasting long-range mountain views backdropped against Trillium Links & Lake Club’s iconic 12th Hole. It provides secluded privacy, easy access for builders, and is moments away from the golf course. The lot has a new four-bedroom septic evaluation on file. Though not required, membership to Trillium Links & Lake Club provides access to amenities like an 18hole golf course, tennis courts, dining, fitness center, and social events.

1.32 ACRES | $290,000 | MLS# 102268

Build your dream home overlooking the 10th fairway and enjoy optional membership in Trillium Links and Lake Club. This .84-acre lot is ready with community water, electric service, and high-speed fiber optic internet and includes potential short-range views of surrounding mountains. You’ll appreciate community amenities like golfing, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, pickleball courts, the fitness center, and clubhouse dining. Bring your boat because access to Lake Glenville is included, too.

0.84 ACRES | $85,000 | MLS# 103425

WALNUT GAP

Discover Lot 1B in Walnut Gap, a prime high-elevation parcel situated over 4,600 feet, promising refreshing summer retreats. Perfectly poised between the quaint charm of Cashiers and the convenience of Franklin, access is versatile via Walnut Gap Road or Shawnee Road, each offering different elevations. Imagine panoramic views from the top and easy building options with 10-foot setback flexibility and no square footage constraints. Here’s your chance to craft your mountain sanctuary!

2.77 ACRES | $25,000 | MLS# 101212

WHITEWATER RIDGE

Enjoy exceptional, long-range mountain and lake views from this lot that overlooks two states! The exclusive and private gated community of Whitewater Ridge offers spectacular vistas. This homesite allows you to build your mountain dream home on over 4.7 acres. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase this lot and create years of memories in your mountain cottage or estate home.

4.71 ACRES | $199,900 | MLS# 103175

WOUDES MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

Discover a 2.5-acre haven in Woudes Mountain Village, teeming with hardwoods and vibrant flora. Experience tranquility with features like a quaint stream and private trail to the community docks on Lake Glenville, providing water adventures at your doorstep. With gentle terrains easing your building process and access to the nearby attractions of Cashiers, Highlands, and Glenville, this lot perfectly combines nature’s charm and modern conveniences.

Secure your serene escape today!

2.53 ACRES | $69,900 | MLS# 100747

RALLY’S OUTDOOR COURTS ARE THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A FRIENDLY MATCH. PHOTO BY AMANDA ANDERSON, COURTESY OF RALLY. RALLYPICKLEBALL.COM

PICKLE POWER

PICKLEBALL, THE SILLY SOUNDING SPORT SUDDENLY

EVERYONE

HAS HEARD OF, IS TAKING THE WORLD BY STORM, ONE DINK AT A TIME

The pressure on, you land a few dinks and cookies before the plastic, yellow ball comes flying back your way and you pull off an Erne over the kitchen to end the game-winning rally. Depending on where you are, your friends all high-five paddles and crack a cold one, or a crowd of tens of thousands goes wild.

This is the wacky world of pickleball: A social, welcoming sport that appeals to anyone and everyone — and the fastest growing in the United States, with its sights set on world domination.

“I was drawn to the game immediately,” says Arvind Prabhoo, president of the International Pickleball Federation (IPF). “It is a community game; it is both recreational and competitive. [And], the fact that pickleball is a very social game with no gender bias, not extremely strenuous on the body, and has ease of adaptability across various age groups has led to the explosion of the sport.”

Pickleball was invented in 1965 in Washington State by a few resident dads who started batting a wiffle ball around with ping pong paddles out of boredom. After coming up with rules for their new game — a cross between ping pong, tennis and badminton played with a perforated, plastic ball and paddle — it started to slowly gain in popularity locally.

“A lot of people assume that it just came around recently,” says Melissa Zhang, director of communications and content for USA Pickleball (USAP), the official national governing body and go-to resource established in 2003. “There have been people involved in the sport for decades — there’s even a pickleball hall of fame.”

From the first tournament in 1976, pickleball grew steadily, spreading to all 50 states by 1990, played especially in warm, year-round retirement communities in Arizona and Florida.

“You have all these retirees, but they’re not your average ‘grandfather’ retirees — they don’t want to be sitting on the couch; they want to be active, they want to be social, and they started playing pickleball,” says Terri Graham, who founded the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida, with her partner Chris Evon in 2016 after she noticed how fast the sport was catching on.

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Those seniors became ambassadors, introducing friends back home to pickleball, which had 2 million players in the U.S. at its 50-year mark in 2015, according to the Sports Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). The COVID-19 pandemic drew more attention to pickleball, as people searched for ways to be social outside, and the SFIA named it the fastest-growing sport in the country in 2021, 2022 and 2023, when it reached 8.9 million “picklers.”

Courts are popping up in parks, country clubs, abandoned malls and warehouses, and even back yards across the nation. Plus, the age range has widened considerably, with everyone from children to college kids to their parents and grandparents picking up paddles.

A large part of the appeal is that pickleball is just plain fun — and can be so for everyone. What Ms. Graham calls “ping pong on steroids,” the game is easy to learn, has a smaller court than most racquet sports, the serve is underhand and is overall low impact. People in their 70s and 80s can play a leisurely game of doubles, former athletes in their 50s and 60s can get their competitive edge back, and pro athletes can choose to jump and run to their limits.

“What attracted me to it is that people of all ages and all levels of athleticism play pickleball and have fun doing it,” says Lauren Faby, a pickler and real estate agent in Naples with John R. Wood Properties.

Especially during the pandemic, pickleball brought families together, and continues to be a bond: Grandparents can play with their grandkids, Ms. Faby’s college-age children picked up the game when visiting her in Naples, and Ms. Zhang plays with her siblings and parents. The social side of pickleball extends far beyond the family, too. In retirement communities, seniors find comfort in pickleball after loss or a bout with illness, while elsewhere a wide mix of players meet new people with a love of the game.

“That kind of camaraderie around a shared passion is a way that you can meet people that you may not meet in your everyday life,” Ms. Zhang says. “I have friends in their 20s who have made these great friends in their 60s and meet them every week and play pickleball. I think that aspect of it is really beautiful — it’s a really good uniter of people.”

Seasoned picklers are also known for welcoming new players with open arms. “The community is incredible,” Ms. Graham says. “You could walk up to a court and not know anybody, and I guarantee somebody will ask you, ‘Are you new? Can I help you? Can I get you a court?’ And then you get out there and we’ve got you. You’re addicted.”

Those fun-filled, community vibes extend to larger pickleball events such as the U.S. Open, held for a week each April in Naples, which Ms. Graham came up with while involved in other racquet sports and working for Wilson Sporting Goods, and envisioned as the “biggest pickleball party in the world.” Since it began, the tournament has grown to include a 64-court home park, over 3,000 amateur and pro players, and 39,500 spectators. The party involves daily live music, a Margaritaville lounge, vendors and groups of friends having a blast.

“We wanted people to come from all over the world, even if they weren’t playing, to have the time of their life, and that’s what people do,” Ms. Graham says. “What I look forward to is just seeing people on the medal stand — you wouldn’t believe it. They’re 60 years old, and they’re calling their mom saying, ‘I just won a gold medal at the U.S. Open!’ It’s a very cool experience.”

USAP hosts its own amateur-and-pro tournament that continues to grow exponentially — 50,000 people attended 2023’s event. “The energy is super high,” Ms. Zhang says. “People who are in the sport are really passionate about it, so they’re there all day, they’re cheering, people always celebrate after points.”

Along with other U.S.-based tournaments, pickleball is growing globally in Canada, Mexico, Peru and some other parts of South America, Europe and especially China and the rest of Asia. The IPF has plans to take the sport worldwide with marketing campaigns, tournaments and, hopefully, an eventual inclusion in the Olympic Games.

“It can be seen as a stamp of approval, acknowledging the sport’s importance and cultural significance on a global scale,” Mr. Prabhoo says of the bid. Along with attracting new players and fans, “inclusion in the Games allows sports to transcend national boundaries, fostering a sense of international community and understanding,” he says.

Still, the heart and soul of the sport are the amateur players who get together in local parks and neighborhood leagues, like Ms. Faby, who plays on her Naples community country club’s intramural and interclub teams, as well as in its “Sunday Funday Potluck Dinner,” where residents bring a dish, a cooler and their pickleball paddles to the courts for a few hours of end-of-week fun — the winner getting a jar of pickles as a trophy.

“I really like how my neighborhood has embraced it as a really big social event,” she says. “I have met so many people through pickleball that I would not have met otherwise — men, women, old people, young people, their guests — and it’s just super laid back.”

More and more people are looking for this kind of fellowship, too. “Naples has become a hub for pickleball — people have moved here to play yearround,” Ms. Faby says. In her real estate business, homebuyers are asking for locations near the East Naples Community Park, where the U.S. Open is held, and she has even started adding how many neighborhood courts are available in the listings of her homes for sale and set up the website pickleballproperties.com

THAT ENTHUSIASM is a testament to the true power of pickleball: the community it fosters. “It’s incredibly inclusive of everyone — all ages, all backgrounds,” Ms. Zhang says. “That’s really what we’re here for, and the fact that it’s also a fun and quirky sport makes it even better.”

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

LEFT: RAISE YOUR SPIRITS INSIDE WITH A COCKTAIL CRAFTED BY RALLY’S AWARD-WINNING MIXOLOGIST AND A DELICIOUS NEAPOLITAN-STYLE PIZZA, ALL WHILE WATCHING THE ACTION ON THE INDOOR COURTS. PHOTO BY AMANDA ANDERSON, COURTESY OF RALLY. RALLYPICKLEBALL.COM

BELOW: LAKE TOXAWAY COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERS ENJOY AN INVIGORATING MATCH

HOME AT SEA

FROM HOUSEBOATS TO PUBLIC PARKS, INNOVATIVE ARCHITECTURE THAT FLOATS RIGHT ON THE WATER IS READY TO RIDE THE CHANGING TIDES

What sets a floating home apart from an ordinary waterfront property is its proximity — the water is not a view or a staircase away, it is one with the building itself, detached from the land. Its residents have the ability to dive into the water, sway with the currents or board a boat and sail away from right at home.

“They are a very treasured commodity,” says Jim Olson, founding principal of Seattle, Washington-

based Olson Kundig Architects. “It’s kind of a romantic idea. It fits Seattle, especially, because the climate here is pretty mild, so you can be outside throughout the year. People go boating all year round.”

Floating architecture is not limited to Seattle, of course. Projects are appearing around the globe, often in Nordic countries, including Denmark and the Netherlands, as well as China and other Asian countries — all regions affected by potential sea level rise.

“Generally, when you build on land, a building has a sort of life span,” says Marshall Blecher, co-founder and architect at MAST, a firm in Copenhagen, Denmark, currently working on evolving the Copenhagen Harbor. “Once it ceases to be valuable on that plot of land, it’s typically renovated or demolished and something is built in its place. I think there’s a really interesting opportunity with floating buildings that you can, rather than demolishing it, move it to somewhere where it does make sense.”

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Initially, living on the water was merely a reality for crews on ships spending months at sea. It was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that houseboats grew in popularity, acting as an affordable living alternative for coastal cities in housing shortages. In the United States and Europe, these flourished during periods such as the Great Depression and post-World War II.

“Waterways were important transport arteries in the Netherlands, and because there were not enough homes on land, ships were converted into homes,” says Jasper van Uitert, architect at Utrecht-based EVA architecten, says of the firm’s hometown. “These were often small, wooden houses on a ship’s bow. In the 20th century, the popularity of living on water grew and, in addition to ships, floating homes were built. The appearance developed from a house on a ship’s bow to a floating house with a mix of styles. In Utrecht, there are modern houseboats with sleek lines, but also interpretations of farms with carpentry and thatched roofs.”

While houseboats are a fascinating build, they are not without their drawbacks. Prior to forming MAST, Mr. Blecher lived in one himself. “Nine years ago, I lived in a houseboat, and it gave me insight into the way [Copenhagen] Harbor was developing,” he says. “I quite liked living on the water, but there were downsides. Those stuck in my mind. It was always a bit wet and cold. I think that the houseboats that we build now are more house and less boat. Inside, they feel like a modern and luxurious home: warm and dry and spacious.”

For instance, houseboats Svendborgsund by MAST and De Tivoli by EVA feature contemporary design and floor-to-ceiling windows. They also incorporate luxury amenities, such as a library in Svendborgsund and heated floors, solar panels and a garden in De Tivoli. An added, perhaps slightly unexpected, element of today’s floating homes is just how social they can be. They are often located in cities, after all, and inspire intrigue from travelers and locals alike.

“Houseboats are pretty open to the world,” Mr. Olson says. “People can come within inches of your windows, passing in kayaks, canoes and sailboats. But there’s this friendliness about it where you wave at people and you let down your boundaries to become part of a community.” For privacy, he incorporated sliding screens in his

design for Water Cabin in Seattle, but generally, houseboats are best suited to those who want to embrace the lifestyle.

Utrecht, for its part, is calmer by comparison, according to Mr. van Uitert’s description of the neighborhood De Tivoli floats in, Rivierenwijk. “Houseboats are located on a beautiful, green edge that forms the barrier between the house and the street and makes it, therefore, a quiet place to live,” he says. That social connection is not lost, however, as De Tivoli shares an important similarity with Seattle’s Water Cabin — the ability to store and sail a boat into the city through Utrecht’s canal system.

Expanding on the sense of community created by floating architecture, projects are also emerging in the form of public spaces such as parks, saunas and other wellness amenities, especially in Europe and Asia.

“Copenhagen Harbor has been changing very quickly over the last decade, transforming from an industrial harbor into something totally new,” Mr. Blecher says. “We’re focused on how we can transform the harbor of Copenhagen with small interventions.” These have included Sauna KFF, a publicly accessible floating sauna and swimming pool, and Havneklippen, a temporary rock-climbing wall at the center of a popular swimming spot.

Meanwhile, in Nanchang, China, Fish Tail Park, created by Chinese architecture firm Turenscape, transformed a heavily polluted, former fish farm and coal ash dumping ground that was vulnerable during monsoon season into a dreamy, floating forest.

“The very simple idea is that the water is a constant,” says Konglian Yu, founder and principal designer of Turenscape. “It is in the air, the ocean, on the planet and in the ice caps — a constant. Without water, you have nothing. We don’t consider that water is not just H2O. Water is a system. Water should be with life, with the earth. It is a key factor of the ecosystem.”

Mr. Yu points out that too often the solution to floods is diverting them. This destroys the

opportunity for biodiversity. Instead, his approach is to create space for it. Fish Tail Park is set up to collect water to nurture its trees, perennials, lotus and other plants, breathing new life into the land.

Several Turenscape projects incorporate Mr. Yu’s “Sponge City” theory. “The use of vegetation functions as a sponge that not only regulates the water, but also cleans it,” Mr. Yu explains. “It creates a habitat for migrant birds and a public space for people. It’s a multifunctional, holistic strategy.”

The park is built to accommodate over six feet of water level rise during peak storm periods and can even withstand floods. Contemporary aluminum installations contrast the fantastical natural surroundings. A network of bike routes,

pedestrian paths, platforms, and even beaches and playgrounds make it seamless for visitors to explore the park. It has become one of the most visited parks in the city and a catalyst in the development of a nearby neighborhood, New District.

Central to sponge cities and Mr. Yu’s practice is his adaptation to nature, especially the element of water. He notes that air and sunshine are predictable, but the behavior of water, whether in excess or lacking, can vary greatly. Mr. Olson has a similar respect for nature, and always strives to create buildings that relate in a meaningful way to the natural site they rest upon.

Functionally, floating homes have the advantage of being able to move and change as environments do. Inside, floorplans must be relaxed and flexible to meet everchanging homeowner needs. And they are often designed to blend in to, rather than compete with, their surroundings.

“You’re not really trying to attract attention to a house, at least in my mind,” Mr. Olson says. “It’s like a bird’s nest. The bird can see out, but you don’t really see the nest until you look for it. It’s more about looking out from the house than it is about looking at the house. The landscape is really beautiful, and so to just melt in with that seems natural to me.”

Water Cabin’s wood paneling on the outside will naturally weather with the water, its flat, horizontal lines mimicking its surface. Silver metal accents are also influenced by the surroundings.

“When you look at water on a cloudy day, but the sun is coming through, you get these sparkles of light on the tips of the waves,” Mr. Olson says. “That’s what the metal does on the houseboat.”

The parallel that exists between the historic need for floating architecture and the present is that it is brought on, once again, from necessity. In the past, this was economic. Today, it is due to the real risk of climate change. Coastlines will be altered due to sea level change, and floating architecture, while more of an adaptation than a solution, provides the opportunity to maintain a foothold in the world’s most cherished places.

“WHEN YOU’RE ANCHORED to the ground, you’re stuck with what happens right there,” Mr. Olson says. “Mobile homes and houseboats and things that are movable enjoy greater flexibility. Birds and fish have always been able to move around, either in the water or the air. They can escape disasters — and maybe that’s why they have been around for so long.”

Text reproduced with permission from Luxury Portfolio International and Luxury Portfolio magazine. © Luxury Portfolio International. All rights reserved.

When you think of bagpipes, kilted Highlanders, and all things Gaelic, the last thing that comes to mind for most people is North Carolina. Yet, that is precisely the leap made by the Outlander series of novels. The story begins in the Highlands of 18thcentury Scotland and winds its way to the New World, where the cast of characters eventually settles in the Southern colony.

Published in 1991, Gabaldon’s Outlander eventually grew into an epic adventure spanning nine volumes, with a tenth on the way, along with numerous spin-off novellas, a graphic novel, and an acclaimed STARZ television series. Six of the nine books and much of the television series detail life in pre-Revolutionary War North Carolina.

Gabaldon, a meticulous historical researcher, has visited North Carolina numerous times to attend Outlander -related events. Her works average 300,000 words and require an average of two-and-a-half years of research, and she has said that details uncovered during the research phase often influence the story in ways that are surprising even to her. As the series is ongoing, the author no doubt continues to draw inspiration for the fictional adventures of the Fraser family.

After the devastating Battle of Culloden, which put an end to the Jacobite rebellion and cast Scotland into decades of tribulation, fictional Highland warrior Jamie Fraser goes into hiding while his time-traveling wife returns to the 20th century. However, the third novel of the series, Voyager , picks up twenty years later. Claire, now living in 1960s Boston, is shocked to discover through historical research that Jamie survived the battle, and she returns through time to search for her lost love. Voyager sees the couple reunited and, in later books, settling in North Carolina, as so many Highland Scots did in real life.

In the series, the star-crossed lovers — along with various family members — make their home on Fraser’s Ridge in the mountains of Western North Carolina. While the location is fictional, fans of the show eventually pestered Gabaldon enough to reveal its presumptive location.

Gabaldon finally answered, “It's up near Boone and Blowing Rock,” putting an end to the boundless speculation. Blowing Rock, with its breathtaking vistas and rugged terrain, provides the perfect setting for the adventurous spirits of Jamie and Claire Fraser as they navigate

a mysterious new continent and the political intrigue of 18th-century North Carolina.

Much as Outlander has served as a boon for tourism in Scotland, North Carolina has earned its fair share of attention as well. Fans flock to locations such as Grandfather Mountain, the site of the country’s largest annual gathering of the clans, and Tryon Palace, featured in the series’ sixth novel, A Breath of Snow and Ashes . Gabaldon herself attended the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in 2008, saying on her blog, “I took two extra days to do research in North Carolina since Grandfather Mountain is smack in the middle of Fraser’s Ridge country.”

Afterward, the author extended her travels down to Greensboro, where she “spent a delightful afternoon wallowing in the Guilford Courthouse Battlefield and Visitors Center. Walking battlefields and listening for the echoes is one of my favorite things, and the Visitors Center there is excellent, with a really good film explaining the battle.” In 2019, Gabaldon attended events at Alamance Battleground and Tryon Palace, aiding fundraising and preservation efforts for those sites.

In fact, Governor Tryon himself appears in the series, although, like historical fiction writers tend to do, Gabaldon fictionalized much of his character. She also drew North Carolinians General Hugh Waddell, Herman Husband, James Hunter, and the Regulators into the story, along with Flora MacDonald, the Jacobite hero who famously aided Bonnie Prince Charlie in his escape from Scotland and then later immigrated to North Carolina with her husband.

The Battle of Kings Mountain is featured in the ninth novel of the series, Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone . While Kings Mountain lies in Western North Carolina, the battle took place in the vicinity of what is now Blacksburg, South Carolina. When writing those scenes, Gabaldon was inspired by an actual soldier’s written account of the battle. Those details, including bark flying as trees are hit by bullets, weave their way into her story.

In addition to Gabaldon’s frequent visits and book signings, the series has sparked Outlanderthemed events and tourism opportunities throughout the Tar Heel state. Fraser’s Ridge Homecoming, held at Leatherwood Mountains Resort in Ferguson, offers an immersive experience

for fans to experience 18th-century “life on The Ridge.” Attendees are treated to authentic music, dancing, workshops, and more that transport them to pre-Revolutionary War North Carolina. Tryon Palace offers special tours, Spark of the Rebellion and The Storm of Revolution, along with living history events that explore 18th-century life. Travel agencies in towns like New Bern and Blowing Rock often sponsor tours and events for visiting Sassenachs.

With the tenth — and predicted to be the final — installment in the Outlander series currently underway, readers must wait a bit longer to learn the fates of Jamie, Claire, and the rest of the North Carolina Highlanders. In the meantime, the rugged mountains, historical small towns, and breezy coastal capes continue to provide inspiration and touristy delights to Gabaldon and her fervently dedicated — some might say occasionally outlandish — fans.

TOP LEFT: WALKING THROUGH GARDENS AT TRYON PALACE IN NEW BERN. PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT NC.

BOTTOM LEFT: JAMIE FRASER (SAM HEUGHAN) IN THE NORTH CAROLINA WOODS FOR OUTLANDER'S SEASON 5. PHOTO BY AIMEE SPINKS, COURTESY OF © 2019 STARZ ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. STARZ.COM

TOP RIGHT: CLAIRE RANDALL (CAITRÍONA BALFE) AND MARGARET TRYON (MELANIE GRAY) IN THE THEATRE FOR OUTLANDER'S SEASON 4. PHOTO BY AIMEE SPINKS, COURTESY OF © 2018 STARZ ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. STARZ.COM

BOTTOM RIGHT: YOUNG HIGHLANDERS AT GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN'S ANNUAL HIGHLAND GAMES. PHOTO COURTESY OF GMHG. GMHG.COM