CLIFFS LIVING
A Magazine With, For, & About Members at The Cliffs
Your Legacy Begins Here
In South Carolina, Cliffs Realty
SC, LLC, 135 Botanical Circle, Travelers Rest, South Carolina 29690, 106 Cliffs South Parkway, Salem, SC 29676, and 3430 Walhalla Highway, Six Mile, SC 29682, Harry V. Roser, Broker-in-Charge. In North Carolina, Cliffs Realty Sales NC, LLC, 5 Cliffs Ridge Parkway, Arden, NC 28704, Harry V. Roser, Broker-in-Charge.
At Cliffs Realty, we’re more than real estate experts—we’re your trusted guide to building a legacy that lasts for generations.
With seven private club communities spanning the Western Carolina mountains and on Lake Keowee, The Cliffs offers a life rich in natural beauty, unforgettable experiences, and homes as enduring as the memories made in them. Choose the luxury of moving right in, the satisfaction of designing and building your own home, or the simplicity of our semi-custom solutions.
THE OFFICIAL BROKERAGE OF THE CLIFFS
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Editor Hailey Wist reflects on her inaugural issues of Cliffs Living magazine.
GATHER
Take a look at some of the festive gatherings hosted by The Cliffs.
LUXURY IN MOTION
The Sports Pavilion at Mountain Park redefines luxury through thoughtful community design.
GENERATIONS ON THE GREEN
Golf unites three generations of the Amen family, shaping memories, dedication, and a lasting legacy.
WALNUT COVE AT TWENTY
Follow the story of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove from its origins to the present day.
A FAMILY AFFAIR
At Walnut Cove, Chef Kirk and his daughter, Lidia, find joy working side by side.
LIQUID LEGACY
Shaped by stone and time, Lake Keowee today offers beauty layered with memory and meaning. 14 20 84 7
FAMILY CONNECTIONS
Inclusive hospitality thrives at The Shepherd Hotel, empowering lives and inspiring community. 50 40 74 28 68 96 56 104 112 118
Three families share how they found their way to The Cliffs and the joys of gathering together.
SOMETHING BORROWED
A Glassy Chapel wedding celebrates the continuity of family traditions across generations.
THE ART OF BELONGING
The Cliffs’ design ethos balances environmental reverence with a contemporary vision.
HOME AT THE CLIFFS
Step inside the homes and lives of members Dave and Julie Nestler and Rick and Joan Schweizer.
SIGHTS AND PEOPLE OF THE CLIFFS
Explore this collection of images shared by our talented members.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Through Cliffs Residents Outreach, neighbors turn compassion into a defining community tradition.
LAST LOOK
The
Custom Home Builder
Dillard-Jones Builders is more than a custom home builder—we’re a legacy in the making, rooted in decades of craftsmanship, innovation, and trusted relationships. As a family-owned company, we take pride in creating exceptional spaces that reflect the way our clients live.
To elevate this legacy, we’ve united our Custom Homes, Cottage portfolio, Renovations, and Services divisions under the Dillard-Jones name, offering a seamless experience for every stage of homeownership. From building new homes to re-imagining existing spaces and providing ongoing property care, we deliver expertise and attention to detail at every turn.
At Dillard-Jones, we’re crafting timeless homes and fostering connections that endure, creating a foundation for lives well-lived and legacies that last. NC : (828) 318.8338 | SC: (864) 527.0463 dillardjones.com
CLIFFS LIVING
MAGA Z INE
EDITOR AND DESIGNER
HAILEY WIST
MANAGING EDITORS
KRISTIE HARRIS
ERIN FORRET
COPY EDITOR
SUNNY GRAY
PUBLISHER THE CLIFFS
SUSAN ABLEIDINGER
CAMERON AMEN
JIM AMEN
MATT AMEN
AMY ANDERSON
LUCINDA DETRICH
NATHAN DURFEE
ANGEL FERRER
LYNETTE FERRER
KIRK FIORE
LIDIA FIORE
MARTY GERVASI
SPECIAL THANKS
MICHAEL GERVASI
DAVE GIERACH
KELLY GIERACH
BRAD KOSTELICH
MICHELLE KOSTELICH
DIANE M c GLOTHLIN
GRANT MOSES
DAVE NESTLER
JULIE NESTLER
ERNIE PEREZ
JAMIE PEREZ
LAUREN REDFEARN
CONTRIBUTORS
SARAH BRADSHAW
BARRY KAUFMAN
SANDY LANG
STEFAN NOLET
PATRICK O’BRIEN
ZACK PEELER
SCOTT WALLACE
JOAN SCHWEIZER
RICK SCHWEIZER
RICHARD SEAY
SARA SMITHSON
COURTNEY STONE-LIPSCOMB
NORYN SUAREZ
OSCAR SUAREZ
JIM TERRILL
LINDA TERRILL
JOE WEISBECK
LARA WEISBECK
MARKI ZANDER
3851 Highway 11, Travelers Rest, SC 29690 864.249.4379 | cliffslivingmagazine.com | magazine@cliffsliving.com
Cliffs Living is published two times a year by The Cliffs. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication without publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. For copies, customer service, or to distribute at a business, please inquire at magazine@cliffsliving.com. Advertisement herein for any product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by The Cliffs or its affiliates.
Legacy at The Cliffs is about belonging, being part of something larger than ourselves, rooted in history yet always moving forward.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
As I spend more time at The Cliffs, meeting members and exploring these mountains and lakes, I am struck by the remarkable sense of connection that runs through it all. This is a place rich with history, tradition, and legacy.
It feels especially fitting, then, that this is our Legacy issue. Legacy here is not a static thing—it is alive and unfolding. It lives in the stories of families who have gathered here for generations, and in the thoughtful ways these communities continue to evolve, building on a rich past while looking toward the future. At The Cliffs, legacy is not just remembered—it is lived, a continuum that links yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Writing “Liquid Legacy” (pg. 56), I was reminded that Lake Keowee is more than a beautiful setting—it is a living archive of geology, culture, and human endeavor. And to live at its shores is to take part in this story. Spending a morning with the Amen family (“Generations on the Green,” pg. 28) brought that same sense of legacy to life, three generations walking the fairways together, sharing both the game and the joy of being together. In every conversation with members—whether reflecting on Walnut Cove’s early days or celebrating the excitement of new amenities— I’ve felt that same spirit of connection and community.
It has been a privilege to listen, to learn, and to share these stories. Thank you for letting me be part of capturing the essence of this extraordinary place. Enjoy!
Hailey Wist | Editor and Designer
To submit photos, story ideas, or feedback about Cliffs Living, email magazine@cliffsliving.com. We also encourage you to help grow our community by sharing Cliffs Living with family and friends, and then invite them to join you here as a member.
WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO AND IT SHOWS
With over 70 homes constructed throughout The Cliffs communities, Evergreen is here for your homebuilding needs. We are a full service custom building company that prides ourselves in the quality and craftsmanship we provide to our customers. We are also proud of the relationships we have built with our clients along the way. Evergreen is an original member of The Cliffs Preferred Builder program and look forward to discussing your new home in The Cliffs.
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Bal Harbour Pop-up | Sponsored by Cliffs Realty
Bal Harbour Pop-up | Sponsored by Cliffs Realty
20th Anniversary Celebration | Walnut Cove
Burgers, Brews, & Blues | Mountain Park
GATHER
AT THE CLIFFS
Throughout the year, The Cliffs hosts dozens of soirees, golf tournaments, and events for members and their guests. Here’s a snapshot of a few gatherings from this past spring and summer.
PHOTOGRAPHS by ZACK PEELER
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Tacklebox Concert Series | Keowee Vineyards
Renegade Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
20th Anniversary Celebration | Walnut Cove
Alliance Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Renegade Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Tacklebox Concert Series | Keowee Vineyards
Alliance Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
20th Anniversary Celebration | Walnut Cove Bal Harbour Pop-up | Sponsored by Cliffs Realty
Alliance Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Renegade Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Food & Wine Festival | Keowee Falls
Alliance Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Liberty Fest | Keowee Vineyards
Renegade Golf Tournament | Keowee Springs
20th Anniversary Celebration | Walnut Cove
Bal Harbour Pop-up | Sponsored by Cliffs Realty
Burgers, Brews, & Blues | Mountain Park
luxury in motion
A NEW ERA OF RECREATION AND CONNECTION TAKES SHAPE IN THE CAROLINA MOUNTAINS. PHOTOGRAPHS BY PATRICK O’BRIEN
The Sports Pavilion
Life here has always leaned toward active and interconnected. Members hike before breakfast, and neighbors trade tennis rackets and fly rods. Families gather for impromptu picnics. There’s a rhythm here set by the seasons and a setting that invites people to live fully.
The Sports Pavilion at Mountain Park marks a new chapter in the community’s evolution. Designed by celebrated architect Keith Summerour, The Sports Pavilion is more than just a recreation center. It is an extension of the land itself—organic in feel, elevated in experience, and in tune with how members at The Cliffs already live.
“This new Sports Pavilion is all about versatility,” says Jack Weber, Director of Development at The Cliffs. “We wanted to create a space that encourages daily activity and togetherness. It’s family-friendly, flexible, and filled with opportunities to connect.”
A Full Spectrum of Amenities
At the heart of The Sports Pavilion is a 7,000-square-foot resort-style pool, offering ample space for swimming, lounging, and enjoying the mountain air. Private cabanas provide shade to relax in comfort, just adjacent to a splash pad and playground for younger kids. It’s a setting designed for families to spend the day cooling off in the water, playing in the sun, or gathering poolside for lunch.
The Sports Pavilion also boasts two tennis courts, four pickleball courts, and two padel courts. One of the fastest-growing sports in the world, padel blends elements of tennis and squash and is played primarily in doubles, a fast-paced game that is as fun for beginners as it is for seasoned players.
In addition to its recreational features, The Sports Pavilion is also a natural gathering place. A covered outdoor dining area offers full food and beverage service, perfect for casual family meals, celebratory toasts, or leisurely afternoons with neighbors. An outdoor amphitheater provides a venue for events and live music—a place to sit back, connect, and enjoy community life.
Additional amenities include a dog park and spacious locker rooms. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick swim, spending the afternoon courtside, or meeting friends for lunch, The Sports Pavilion is built to support the rhythm of everyday life.
A Global Sport on the Rise
Padel may be new to The Cliffs, but it’s anything but new to the world. Born in Mexico in the late 1960s, the sport blends the pacing of tennis with the precision of squash. It has grown into one of the fastest-expanding sports across Europe and the Americas. Played almost exclusively as doubles, padel is intuitive and strategic. At Mountain Park, two custom-built courts made their debut as part of the new Sports Pavilion, inviting members of all ages and skill levels to discover the thrill of a game that’s social, accessible, and highly addictive.
Courts & Gear
Padel courts are smaller than tennis courts—just ten meters wide and twenty meters long—and enclosed by glass walls and metal mesh. The net divides the court, and walls come into play during rallies, adding an extra layer of strategy. Players use solid, perforated rackets—lighter and more compact than traditional tennis rackets—and the balls, while similar in appearance to tennis balls, are slightly depressurized to create a softer bounce and longer rallies.
Scoring the Game
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: love, 15, 30, 40, and game. But there’s a twist. At deuce, there’s no backand-forth advantage; instead, the next point wins. It’s called the “golden point”—a sudden-death thrill that keeps every game fast-moving and fiercely competitive.
Tactics & Teamwork
As a doubles game, padel hinges on communication and shared court coverage. Smart positioning is key: Hover near the service line at the back or just ahead of the second post at the net, but avoid getting caught in the dreaded “no man’s land” in between. Use angles, drop shots, and tempo changes to throw off your opponents, and keep up a steady stream of communication with your partner to move in sync.
Evolving Luxury
The Sports Pavilion isn’t just about recreation; it’s about reimagining luxury. In a recent interview, Keith Summerour reflects on how the definition of luxury has changed in recent years: “Americans have matured. Now, we focus on hospitality as health.”
That philosophy rings true throughout The Sports Pavilion. This is luxury not as extravagance, but as a commitment to wellness and connection. From the layout of the amphitheater to the thoughtful placement of seating and shade, every detail has been considered through the lens of how it will feel to live here.
The Sports Pavilion opened its doors in summer 2025, marking the beginning of a new era of recreation, connection, and luxury living.
GREEN generations on the
THREE GENERATIONS, ONE SHARED DREAM. AT THE CLIFFS, THE AMEN FAMILY IS BUILDING A LEGACY OF DISCIPLINE AND CONNECTION, BOTH TO THE GAME AND TO EACH OTHER.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY HAILEY WIST
ON A WARM MORNING IN EARLY JUNE, THREE GENERATIONS WALKED THE FAIRWAYS AT THE CLIFFS AT KEOWEE VINEYARDS. THE SUN WAS ALREADY CLIMBING, CASTING LONG SHADOWS ACROSS THE BUNKERS. CAMERON AMEN—THIRTEEN YEARS OLD AND QUIETLY FOCUSED—STEPPED INTO THE SAND WITH THE CONFIDENCE OF SOMEONE WHO’S DONE IT A THOUSAND TIMES.
He took a couple of practice swings, then knocked a shot that tracked true, took one soft hop, and dropped straight into the hole. His dad, Matt, grinned. His grandfather, Jim, beamed.
It’s a moment most golfers dream about, but for the Amen family, it was just another memory made in a life increasingly shaped by the game.
Originally from Orange County, California, the Amens found their way to The Cliffs at Keowee Springs during the pandemic in 2020. Matt and his wife, Charly, came first, drawn by the promise of a supportive golf culture and the kind of environment where their kids, Cameron and Mia, could grow into their talents. A year later, Jim and his wife, Sherrie, followed, unwilling to watch their grandchildren grow up from afar. “I’ve worked my whole life,” Jim says. “I wanted to watch my grandkids play sports. That’s why we moved.”
Now, the family lives a short drive away from one another, sharing life in a way that feels rare and deliberate. Golf brought them here, but family is why they stayed.
Cameron, who’s been homeschooled since 2020, structures his days around the game. Mornings often begin with a workout or a few hours of schoolwork, followed by hours of focused practice, either on the course or at the stateof-the-art golf learning center at Keowee Springs. The world-
class facilities at The Cliffs, combined with the inspiring natural surroundings, provide the perfect backdrop for the Amen family’s commitment to excellence in golf and beyond. With access to top-tier training equipment and a community that fosters both athletic and personal growth, they can pursue their passions in an environment designed for success. As a seventh grader, Cameron is already playing a national tournament schedule and competed this year on the Seneca High School team. He made All-League and helped the team qualify for the state championship for the first time in twenty years.
His sister, Mia, is eleven and is a tennis standout in her own right. Their days often run in parallel: separate coaches, separate training schedules, but the same level of commitment and the same passion for improving. Matt recently bought six acres near their home to build a private clay court and a future indoor tennis facility for Mia. “We’re a family of athletes,” Matt says simply.
But more than that, they’re a family that believes in putting in the work.
“We come from a culture of knowing that if you put the work in, you will be good,” Matt says. “It’s not about raw talent—it’s about daily commitment. I always told myself: If I take my kids to work every day, they’ll be among the best.”
“THE FAMILY LIVES A SHORT DRIVE AWAY FROM ONE ANOTHER, SHARING DAILY LIFE IN A WAY THAT FEELS RARE AND DELIBERATE. GOLF BROUGHT THEM HERE, BUT FAMILY IS WHY THEY STAYED.”
That mindset started with Jim, who poured time and resources into Matt’s development as a young golfer in Southern California. Matt went on to play Division I golf at the University of Oregon, and when he saw the same spark in Cameron, he knew what was required.
“He was hitting balls at two years old,” Matt says. “By seven, we knew this was it. We started practicing every day. Traveling for tournaments. Going all in.”
Now, Cameron’s coach, Wes Nichols, lives with the family several weeks a month, while Wes’s wife, a sports psychologist, helps Cameron with the mental side of the game. Together, they’ve created a training ecosystem that rivals that of professional athletes. “It’s not just about how well you hit the ball,” Cameron explains. “Golf is 95 percent mental. If you don’t have that, it doesn’t matter how good your swing is.”
Clearly, Cameron absorbed that wisdom. He speaks with calm precision and has the kind of emotional composure more often found in players twice his age. Still, he’s quick to smile. Quick to cheer for his sister. Quick to
admire a picturesque course—”It’s just beautiful here every day,” he says.
For Matt and Jim, watching Cameron’s rise has stirred a deep sense of purpose. Golf is no longer just a passion; it’s a legacy. Matt recalls playing with his grandparents as a boy, learning the etiquette of the game. Now, he gets to repeat that ritual—with his father and his son by his side.
“It’s a team effort,” Matt says. “I told my parents: I need you here. This isn’t about leaving you behind. It’s about doing this together. We have a special opportunity with these kids, and it really does take a village.”
For Jim, that invitation changed everything. “When Matt left, it broke my heart,” he says. “But now, we wake up and look at the lake. My wife loves seeing the seasons change. I play golf with my grandkids.”
Three generations, one game, a shared life. At The Cliffs, the Amen family isn’t just playing the game—they’re building something bigger. Shot by shot, round by round, they’re shaping a legacy, one fairway at a time.
“FOR
MATT AND JIM, WATCHING CAMERON’S RISE HAS STIRRED A DEEP SENSE OF PURPOSE. GOLF IS NO LONGER JUST A PASSION; IT’S A LEGACY.”
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Story by Stefan Nolet
Walnut Cove At Twenty
As The Cliffs at Walnut Cove turns twenty, longtime members and new arrivals reflect on the people, places, and memories that make this community feel like home.
Spring had settled over the mountains of Western North Carolina, and the grass on The Cliffs at Walnut Cove’s event lawn had returned to a lush, vibrant green. Music drifted through the air, a soundtrack of familiar favorites echoing off the ridgelines as members gathered on the lawn and flowed into The Tavern to celebrate. Along the cobblestone drive, the culinary team served up a feast: crisp salads, fresh poke, gourmet sandwiches, and a spread of sweet treats that paired perfectly with the golden light and easy laughter drifting across the terrace.
The date was April 26, 2025—twenty years to the day since the first round of golf was played on Walnut Cove’s Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. That inaugural tournament saw Nicklaus himself tee off alongside Hollywood icon Kevin Costner for the BMW Charity Pro-Am, setting the stage for what would
become a storied community. And this past spring, more than two hundred members gathered not just to celebrate the anniversary but also to revisit the journey. The main dining room was transformed into a Hall of Memories, with walls lined with photographs tracing the course from its earliest construction to the present day. Artifacts from that first tournament and decades of club events were on display, along with a memory board where members could share stories, reflections, and moments that have made Walnut Cove feel like home.
The celebration unfolded across the event lawn, The Tavern terrace, and the main dining room—spaces that, fittingly, have been added or transformed over the course of Walnut Cove’s twenty-year evolution. Each gathering place stands as a testament to the community’s growth, shaped and refined alongside the lives lived within it.
2002
The Cliffs expands into North Carolina with the announcement of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove community.
2008
The Tavern opens in Walnut Cove’s Club Village.
2005
Jack Nicklaus and Kevin Costner play the inaugural round on Walnut Cove’s Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.
2006
The Golf House opens and is honored as “Best New Clubhouse” by Golf, Inc.
2009
The wellness center opens.
2010
The tennis facility opens.
2021
The Tavern and Golf House are renovated to include outdoor dining, an event lawn, and new bar.
2016
UNC Asheville women’s golf chooses Walnut Cove to be the their home course.
Growing Up
Lauren Redfearn was just eleven years old when her family moved to Walnut Cove, relocating from The Cliffs Valley. She now works as a Sales Support Specialist for Cliffs Realty’s Asheville Region, but her roots in the community run deep, formed during childhood and shaped by years of connection to the place she still calls home.
She recalls learning to drive on the quiet streets of a neighborhood that, at the time, had far fewer houses than it does today. Some of her favorite childhood memories are of evening walks on the golf course with her dad, pulling golf balls from the water as the sun dipped behind the mountains. With the community still in its early stages, Lauren was one of the few children in the neighborhood. So she found connection and camaraderie in another essential part of Walnut Cove: the staff.
“When I was younger, there weren’t a lot of kids here, so all my friends were the people who worked at the club, and I would be behind the desk with them while my parents had dinner,” Lauren said. “They probably thought that was annoying, but I loved it!”
Founders’ Spirit
For the inaugural members who made Walnut Cove their home from the outset, the sprawling expanse of the anniversary celebration was a far cry from the early days of the club. One thing, however, has never changed: neighbors finding a way to come together and make every gathering feel special. “All we had in the beginning was the cobblestone down by The Turnhouse,” remembers Susan Ableidinger. “We had music, and we would dance all night.”
Susan and her husband, Robert, were among the first members to build at Walnut Cove. While living in Chicago, the Ableidingers received marketing pieces in the mail, prompting a detour into South Carolina during a trip to Florida. While initially planning to move into The Cliffs Valley, they jumped at the opportunity to buy into the newly announced community just south of Asheville. They made the drive to the site of Walnut Cove and began looking at properties. “There were no roads, so we drove around in a four-wheel drive and fell in love with the whole place,” says Susan.
Seeing Walnut Cove evolve from its earliest days into the vibrant, multifaceted community it is today, Susan is most impressed by the club associates. “It’s the best place in the world to live, and what makes it that way is the staff,” she says. “Bob and I have traveled and belonged to clubs all over the world, and we’ve never had better than this.”
The top image shows Jack Nicklaus (olive green jacket and tan hat) on a site visit during the construction of the golf course. The bottom image shows the golf course the weekend it opened in April 2005.
When The Cliffs at Walnut Cove opened its Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in 2005, it did so with a memorable pairing on the first tee: Jack Nicklaus and actor Kevin Costner. The two played the ceremonial opening round together, marking the official debut of the highly anticipated course.
Costner, an avid golfer and longtime friend of The Cliffs, joined Nicklaus for what was described as an “unprecedented” moment—one that blended the worlds of championship design and Hollywood storytelling. The round was lighthearted and celebratory, with Nicklaus reportedly joking to Costner, “Hey Kevin, this is the first time my caddie ever caddied before.”
That day helped establish Walnut Cove as a premier golf destination and reinforced The Cliffs’ reputation for creating community around the game—where design, natural beauty, and shared experience come together from the very first swing.
First Impressions
Brad and Michelle Kostelich have been members at Walnut Cove for nearly eight years, but they felt the community’s welcoming spirit from the very first visit. At the time, they were enjoying a break from their busy lives in Pennsylvania with a getaway to Lake Toxaway, but Walnut Cove was on their radar as a potential landing spot for retirement.
They toured the property over Independence Day weekend in 2017 and, as Brad describes it, it was “love at first sight.” That fall, they returned for a discovery weekend, and during a dinner event, they began forming friendships that would soon become foundational. “We showed up at 7 o’clock, and I didn’t see Michelle again for two and a half hours,” Brad recalls with a laugh. “We wanted something that felt communal, even with lots of different people. It was just so attractive to us.”
They made the decision to join The Cliffs in 2017, began building in 2019, and moved in a couple of years later. Throughout that process, they made it a point to return often, to join in events and meet neighbors. And though they’ve been part of Walnut Cove for just under half its lifespan, they’ve witnessed a remarkable amount of growth and transformation.
New Horizons
Even for members new to the community—like Michael and Marty Gervasi—the sense of welcome was immediate. The couple joined the club in early 2024 and attended their first New Member Mingle shortly thereafter. By the end of the evening, they’d been invited to dinner by members they had only just met.
“It’s been very welcoming, and we’ve quickly integrated with people,” Michael said. “They’ve had their arms open, and they’re pulling us in to join.”
Originally living on Longboat Key in Florida, the Gervasis had been considering a move to the Asheville area. It was fellow Longboat Key residents Willie and Rosa Stanfield—who also call Walnut Cove home—who first introduced them to the community.
Michael finds his footing on the nearby mountain bike trails, while both he and Marty enjoy exploring the culture and charm of Asheville. “We end up in Asheville proper two or three times a week because we love the city so much,” Michael said.
At the anniversary celebration, longtime members and new arrivals stood shoulder to shoulder, admiring photo boards, trading stories, and adding their voices to a growing legacy. The community has grown—its streets busier, its clubhouse livelier, its friendships more layered, but the heart remains the same: neighbors gathering, memories made, and the enduring joy of building something beautiful together.
A Family Affair
Executive Chef Kirk Fiore spent years working long hours in the kitchen. Now, at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, he gets to share the experience with his daughter, Lidia.
Q Chef Kirk, when did you start at Walnut Cove?
A Kirk: Four years ago. I was an executive chef at Biltmore Estate for eight years before that, but we are originally from Vermont. My kids, Lidia and Will, were both born in Burlington. My wife is from Johnson City, Tennessee. She grew up coming here and wanted to be closer to family.
Q What made you decide to come work at The Cliffs?
A Kirk: I was just looking for something different! And then a friend who works at a nearby club told me about the position at The Cliffs. So I interviewed with Rob Duckett [President of The Cliffs] and Francis Turck [Senior Executive Chef at The Cliffs] and got the job.
Q Lidia, when did you start?
ALidia: I’ve been working here for two years. I started as a hostess, but now I’m a server. I work mostly in the summer, but I pick up shifts year-round. I play club soccer in the fall and school soccer in the spring, so during the school year, I work on holidays and weekends.
Q What is it like working together?
A Lidia: My parents have always worked in food and beverage, so I grew up in kitchens. It was a little intimidating, especially when I started serving, because I wanted to make him proud. But it’s also really comforting knowing that he’s on my side.
Kirk: The feeling is mutual. I’m proud to see her grow into a professional and do such a great job. And yeah, similarly, I don’t want her to mess up!
Lidia: At the beginning of the night, we banter and joke around, but once service starts, it gets pretty serious. I try not to go near the line!
Q And it sounds like your son used to work at The Cliffs?
A Kirk: He worked in the golf shop for three seasons, getting bags, cleaning clubs, and that sort of thing. But this year, he is running cross country and track at Appalachian State, so he is too busy.
Lidia: I worked at The Cliffs for about a year without a driver’s license, so Will used to drive me. I’ll just say he doesn’t have the same urgency to get to work on time. [laughs] But whenever I got the chance, I would walk over and say hi. And he’d eat lunch here with us.
Q Lidia, do you think you’ll follow in your parents’ footsteps?
A Lidia: Maybe not as a career, but I think everyone should work in a restaurant! It is such a great learning experience.
Q Did you ever think you’d be working together?
A Kirk: It’s such a demanding job with long hours. So it’s nice to have this time together. It feels full circle for her to see what Katie and I have both been doing, for both of our kids to see us in action. It’s a good feeling.
Liquid
STORY BY HAILEY WIST
Legacy
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where misty ridges roll into deep hollows and streams meander through granite-carved valleys, lies Lake Keowee. Today, this crystalline reservoir draws boaters, anglers, and sunseekers to its shores, but Lake Keowee’s story stretches far deeper than its 297 miles of shoreline suggests. It is a tale of stone, time, and the movement of people and power across centuries.
Geologically, the land beneath Lake Keowee is ancient—among the oldest exposed rock in North America. The Appalachian Mountains began forming almost 480 million years ago in a series of continental collisions, thrusting up ranges and folding the Earth’s crust. As time weathered these mountains down, rivers cut through gneiss, schist, and granite, creating the ridges and valleys of what we now call the Piedmont.
The Keowee River, a tributary of the larger Savannah River system, eventually carved its course through the terrain, its waters fed by mountain springs and seasonal rains.
For thousands of years, this landscape supported rich biodiversity and provided for its earliest human inhabitants. The forests teemed with black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. The rivers ran thick with fish and freshwater mussels. It was a fertile, generous place long before dams, docks, and people flourished here.
by
Photograph
Patrick O’Brien
By the time Europeans arrived in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the region was home to the Cherokee, whose ancestors had lived in the Southeast for millennia. The Cherokee Nation was expansive, and the Lower Towns of the Cherokee were concentrated in what is now northwestern South Carolina. One of these towns was Keowee—an anglicized version of a Cherokee word meaning “place of the mulberries” or “place of the lean-to.”
This illustration to the right shows a Native American village and gardens in the 1500s, located in what is now North Carolina, then part of the Virginia Colony.
Keowee was not only a thriving village but also a political and cultural center. The town served as a strategic hub for trade and diplomacy between the Cherokee and European settlers. Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered pottery, tools, and other artifacts that suggest evidence of a complex, vibrant society.
Yet the relationship between the Cherokee and the settlers was fraught. Treaties were signed, broken, and rewritten. Conflict was frequent, particularly during the French and Indian War and later during the American Revolution. By the early 1800s, under pressure from encroaching settlers and federal policy, the Cherokee were forcibly removed from the region.
For over a century afterward, the Keowee River Valley remained largely rural—forested, dotted with small farms, and stitched together by country roads and sleepy towns. But in the mid-twentieth century, a dramatic transformation was set in motion. The post-World War II boom brought industrial expansion, and with it, an insatiable demand for energy.
In the mid-twentieth century, a dramatic transformation was set in motion. The post-World War II boom brought industrial expansion, and with it, an insatiable demand for energy.
Enter Duke Power Company (now Duke Energy). In the 1960s, Duke sought to meet the rising energy needs of the Carolinas through a series of hydroelectric and nuclear power projects. The Keowee-Toxaway Project was born. Its centerpiece was the construction of a large reservoir that would not only generate hydroelectric power but also serve as a cooling source for nuclear reactors.
Construction began in 1967, with the Keowee Dam and the Jocassee Dam (feeding into Lake Jocassee, which in turn feeds Lake Keowee). The creation of the lake required flooding the old Keowee River Valley. Entire tracts of land, including homesteads, roads, and even cemeteries, were purchased, relocated, or submerged. By 1971, Lake Keowee began to fill.
Duke Energy still owns and manages Lake Keowee. It is both a source of hydroelectric power and an integral part of the energy infrastructure supporting the Oconee Nuclear Station. Its waters are carefully monitored for temperature, flow, and environmental impact. But while its purpose is utilitarian, Lake Keowee has become so much more.
At The Cliffs, we recognized early on that Lake Keowee is the backdrop for an extraordinary way of life. With its crystal-clear waters and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains rising in the distance, this lake has become one of the Southeast’s premier lifestyle destinations. We’ve thoughtfully developed our lakefront communities to reflect that natural beauty, offering refined living with direct access to the lake, golf courses, marinas, and several world-class amenities.
What’s more, zoning laws, shoreline management programs, and conservation partnerships have helped maintain a level of environmental quality that stands out among man-made lakes. Duke Energy operates under a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license that includes requirements for environmental stewardship, recreational access, and historical preservation. At The Cliffs, we are proud to be stewards of Lake Keowee, working in tandem with Duke Energy’s conservation programs to preserve its natural beauty. Our development practices are thoughtfully designed to maintain the lake’s ecological balance while enhancing the lifestyle experience for our members and residents.
Left: View of High Falls (Now under Lake Keowee) | Above: Lake Keowee during Construction | Images from John Moore Collection, Oconee History Museum, Walhalla, South Carolina
At The Cliffs, we are proud to be stewards of Lake Keowee, working in tandem with Duke Energy’s conservation programs to preserve its natural beauty.
Today, Lake Keowee stretches over 18,000 acres and reaches depths of more than 150 feet in some places. Its water remains notably clear, thanks to the surrounding forested watershed and the granite-rich soil. On a summer morning, the lake can be as still as glass, save for the swoop of an osprey or the churn of a kayak paddle. Loons occasionally drift through during migration, and bald eagles nest on the lake’s islands and coves.
Underwater, bass and bream dart among submerged tree stumps and rocky shelves. In spring, anglers wade into the shallows in pursuit of trout and crappie, while pontoon boats idle lazily near the shore, music floating across the water. At sunset, the lake takes on a copper glow, reflecting the silhouettes of Appalachian peaks.
Though shaped by human hands, Lake Keowee has, in many ways, reclaimed its identity as a place of peace, refuge, and connection to the natural world. Its history is one of displacement and rebirth, where ancient cultures once thrived and where modern life now unfolds against a backdrop that still whispers of mulberries, black bears, and a life connected to the land.
Photographs by Patrick O’Brien
Our luxury residential and resort communities are de ned by quality, lasting value, and a commitment to designing with nature. Known for thoughtful planning, timeless architecture, and world-class amenities, these highly regarded communities o er residents access to outdoor pursuits and wellness in naturally inspired settings. Each community fosters a strong connection –to place, to people, and to the environment. Discover ownership in one of our coveted residential communities today.
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TWO COUSINS, ONE DESTINATION
THE SUAREZ AND FERRER FAMILIES
The Cliffs at Glassy and The Cliffs at Mountain Park
Sometimes families find their way to The Cliffs by the most improbable of coincidences.
“My cousin Noryn has always had homes in the Carolinas, and when we were going to see The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, I reached out to let her know we were coming through Asheville,” said Lynette Ferrer. “When she saw that we were looking at homes, she said they were as well. Her text just said, ‘Have you heard of The Cliffs?’ I just said, ‘Stop. I’m calling you now.’”
It turned out Noryn Suarez and her husband, Oscar, were very familiar with the neighborhood they were recommending to her cousin.
“We had just bought in The Cliffs. Literally, we had just gone under contract,” said Noryn. “We had looked at over forty homes and just found that The Cliffs at Glassy was amazing. The entertainment, the activities… our realtor JoAnn Roser was great about showing us everything going on.”
At this point, an astonishing coincidence became an unbelievable one. Noryn and Oscar’s Cliffs Realty Sales Executive, JoAnn, had just picked up a new client. That’s right. These cousins not only shared a love for the inimitable lifestyle of The Cliffs, but they also shared a realtor.
“Once we knew they were working with JoAnn, we knew they were in good hands,” said Oscar.
The Suarezes had been drawn to Glassy after their youngest child had settled in Greenville, captivated by the mountain scenery and tight-knit social circle.
“We really enjoy that it’s a very inclusive community,” said Oscar. “People love socializing here. There are so many activities, we get frustrated that we can’t go to all of them.”
When Lynette and Angel finally came to visit, they were equally captivated. “We were already pre-sold, so it was really about finding our community and a home that felt right for us,” said Angel. “We landed in Mountain Park!”
“My cousin whips around those mountains like it’s nothing,” added Lynette with a laugh.
Before the end of that first visit, the Ferrers had found their dream home in Mountain Park, where they got expansive Blue Ridge Mountain views and plenty of opportunities to spend time not just with their cousins, but the entire extended family.
“The opportunity to be a member at seven different golf courses was super appealing, and we’ve made our adult children legacy members of the club as well,” said Angel. “It’s a nice thing to share with them. They can go on their own and enjoy the home if we’re not there. It’s a little family getaway.”
“It’s really become a gathering place for our family,” added Noryn.
LET FAMILY LEAD THE WAY
THE TERRILL AND PEREZ FAMILIES
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
For Linda and Jim Terrill, the move to The Cliffs was the next step in a long-standing tradition of following their daughter Jamie’s lead. Originally from the Midwest, they moved to Pinecrest, Florida, when she enrolled at the University of Florida. Now, they’ve followed Jamie and her husband, Ernie, to The Cliffs.
“It seems like we’ve been following her ever since she went to college,” said Linda with a laugh. “She’s definitely led the way.”
Jamie and Ernie Perez, ironically enough, discovered The Cliffs through their own children.
“Our kids went to Camp Highlander in Mills River, so we knew the area,” Jamie explains. “In the summer of 2023, we went on vacation [up there], and I just fell in love with the cool air and the mountains. As soon as we got back, we started looking.”
They bought their home in Walnut Cove without seeing it in person, as a bidding war had already begun to unfold. Still, there was no doubt they’d found the right place. “We wanted to be in the mountains and feel secluded, but not isolated,” said Jamie. “Everything The Cliffs had to offer turned out to be exactly what we wanted.”
And they weren’t alone in that assessment. By the time Jamie and Ernie laid eyes on their home, Linda and Jim already had properties lined up for tours.
Everything fell into place, and once again, Jim and Linda found themselves following Jamie. This time, though, it wasn’t just about being near family—it was about finding a sense of belonging. “We’ve moved around a lot, but we’ve never lived anywhere where we felt more welcomed by members and staff,” said Linda.
The staff, in particular, has impressed Jim. “The consistency [at the club] was enough to get us to look, and when we got here it was easy to stay,” said Jim. “It’s an incredible place to live.”
Now, with just half a mile between their homes, it’s not uncommon for Jamie to stop by while out walking the dog, just to say hello. “It’s wonderful for them to be so close,” said Linda. “And we share so many interests. There are a lot of opportunities here for the family to do things together.” Whether strolling scenic trails or gathering for dinners at the club, The Cliffs ensures that every member of the family—no matter the generation—can make the most of their time together.
Photograph by Zack Peeler
GETTING THE GANG TOGETHER
THE GIERACH FAMILY
The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards
For the Gierach family, there is one event on the calendar inked in red and circled for emphasis: Nana Camp. It’s the one time of year the entire Gierach clan comes together at the family compound they’ve built at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards.
“We have a very large family, so it’s become a nice gathering spot,” said Kelly Gierach, the matriarch of the tribe. “There are twenty-three of us! When we’re all together for Nana Camp, it’s chaos.” That kind of joyful chaos comes with logistical challenges, especially when it’s time to eat. “When I call the restaurant for a reservation, I have to explain that it’s not an event. I’m just feeding my family! The club is great about accommodating all of us.”
Dinner aside, Keowee Vineyards has something for everyone.
“The house is very large, and we have a huge bunk room,” said Kelly. “We’re right on the sixth hole, and we have two
docks for the pontoon boat and the wakeboard boat, so the boys all go fishing or skiing.”
Kelly and her husband, David, discovered the area when their son was attending Furman University. “One time, after a visit, we were headed to The Biltmore Estate and came across The Cliffs Valley. We thought it looked like a really nice neighborhood,” said Kelly.
They soon returned to scout The Cliffs for their family’s new retreat. “We stayed down in Six Mile a few times and started getting interested in Keowee Vineyards. We loved the way it was surrounded by forests,” said Kelly. “With the kids, it just made sense between the lake, the golf, and the horseback riding. It worked out phenomenally.”
At Keowee Vineyards, the Gierachs didn’t just find a place for their family. They found a place that became a part of the family. “We love this community,” says Kelly. “It’s nice to keep the family close, and this is how you do it.”
something
borrowed
In the sunshine and sweet mountain air, a daughter marries where her mother wed, and the bride’s grandmother is beaming.
Story by Sandy Lang
Photographs by Sarah Bradshaw
Photograph by Patrick O’Brien
On an April afternoon at the stone Chapel at The Cliffs at Glassy, the day was awash in springtime blues, from the sky overhead to the hydrangeas tied into soft bouquets.
The wedding party wore pale-blue dresses and suits, echoing the tones of the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond.
“It was all of our favorite people in one of our favorite places,” recalls the bride, Lara Weisbeck.
Though she grew up in Buffalo, New York, Lara spent many holidays and summer days at Glassy. As the oldest granddaughter among dozens of siblings and cousins, she joined a lively crew of aunts, uncles, and extended family who gathered here year after year. When Lara was sixteen, she stood at the very same altar and watched her mother, Dana, marry her stepfather, John LeMar, in the Glassy Chapel. Those memories, layered over years of family gatherings, made the place feel like a second home.
And at the heart of it all was one person: Mimi.
Diane McGlothlin, affectionately known as Mimi to her twenty-one grandchildren, was one of the earliest club members at The Cliffs at Glassy. In the early 2000s, she built a house on Stony Road with plenty of room for family and friends. In 2009, McGlothlin hosted the reception for her
daughter Dana’s wedding. And at the April 2024 wedding of her eldest granddaughter, Lara, to longtime beau Joe Weisbeck, McGlothlin also played a key role.
The bridal party dressed in their gowns at Mimi’s large, airy home with tall windows and ivy-covered walls, and on the wedding day, she was the one decked out in a blue blouse and chic, cherry-red trousers, along with a beaming smile. Lara says Mimi has always been known for her radiant beauty and impeccable style, and she considers her eightytwo-year-old grandmother to be one of her very best friends.
“Mimi’s so well-traveled and graceful,” Lara says. “She’s one of the most incredible people I’ve ever known.”
When Lara was a child, she reveled at being among the cousins chasing each other through Mimi’s tall house, known for its views to Georgia on a clear day. Her grandmother had decorated one of the bedrooms in an Alice in Wonderland theme, and the children would all pile into the basement to
“We wanted to have our wedding here as a tribute to Mimi.”
play games and perform skits for the grown-ups. Outside on the property’s windy perch, Lara and her cousins clambered over mountain boulders and marveled at Mimi’s garden statue of a woman with a billowing skirt, “Gale Force Nun.” (Along with the house, the bronze work by British sculptor Philip Jackson withstood last year’s Hurricane Helene just fine.)
During annual summer day camps organized by Glassy members, the kids played golf and tennis and tried ziplining and whitewater rafting. McGlothlin recalls those summers fondly. “It was a chance to spend some bonding time with my grandchildren…while also entertaining them with enriching adventures.”
McGlothlin smiles at recalling birthday parties and other festivities at her home, “and a multitude of family gatherings, including celebrations every Thanksgiving with my big extended family.” Mimi loves to travel and would also lead national and international trips with various cohorts of her grandchildren. Lara recalls a trip with Mimi and family to museums in Paris and to a Harry Potter-inspired excursion in England. Another time, Mimi brought a different group of her grandchildren to Alaska. “She has always been there for her grandchildren, and she liked to share her knowledge of the world with us,” Lara says.
When she was a student at High Point University in North Carolina, Lara studied art and recalls often meeting Mimi for shopping trips in Charlotte. “Those trips were
very special,” remembers Lara. “We’d laugh so much.” The fun has continued ever since. “Mimi can turn something so simple into art,” according to Lara, who says her grandmother shared with her the secret to putting together an outfit— always add one thing you wouldn’t expect.
Lara and Joe, now in their early thirties, began dating on summer breaks while they were in college. Lara soon invited him to join her on family trips to Glassy. “When I saw how amazing it was, I never wanted to leave,” says Joe, an avid golfer who owns a landscape construction business. “With the courses winding through the mountains, the conditions are fantastic.”
On one of his earliest visits, Joe followed a trail that begins near the Glassy Chapel and leads to a lookout point. He and Lara began going there together, every visit. Sometimes they’d invite other family members to join them. “We made it a tradition—to follow the path and look out
“When I built this house, I built it with family in mind, in the hopes that it would become a happy gathering place for my children, grandchildren, and their families.”
at the view, and it became a special place for us,” Lara says.
The couple was captivated, and each knew that Glassy would be where they would marry. After college graduation, Lara became an administrator at a preschool, work that she notes is inspired by her mother and grandmother—“filling our childhoods with fun, life, games, and laughter.”
And when their wedding day finally arrived, Joe remembers looking out over the escarpments below the chapel that had become so familiar. “Luckily, we had a perfectly clear day, and everyone got to experience the beauty.”
He and Lara will never forget their wedding celebration at the Glassy Chapel, surrounded by dearest friends and family—and that Mimi was there for it all.
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KEOWEE
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KEOWEE FALLS
THE TEAM
Chris Shelnut LAKE REGION
Vince Roser ASHEVILLE REGION
Justin Coleman LAKE REGION
Matt Hendrix LAKE REGION
Zack Thomas LAKE REGION
Scott Reid LAKE REGION
Ashleigh Connel MOUNTAIN REGION
Garry Patton MOUNTAIN REGION
Jon Skillman MOUNTAIN REGION
JoAnn Roser MOUNTAIN REGION
Angela Osborne MOUNTAIN REGION
Richard Seay DIRECTOR OF SALES
Frank Nix ASHEVILLE REGION
The Art of Belonging
Story by Barry Kaufman
Blending mountain landscapes with inspired architecture, The Cliffs reflects a community deeply connected to place.
Few things are more prized in today’s world than authenticity. We seek it in the food we eat, the friendships we nurture, and the ways we spend our time. It’s only natural, then, that we also look for it in our homes. We want the places we inhabit to reflect not just who we are, but also where we are.
At The Cliffs, this means designing with reverence for a landscape that humbles and inspires in equal measure. Homes are designed not just to be part of the landscape, but to actively enhance and sustain it with a focus on environmentally conscious materials and energy-efficient building practices. Within these peaks and valleys, the built environment carries a responsibility to exist as a harmonious extension of the land’s natural majesty. To be rooted in place, not imposed upon it. Architecture here grows in response to topography, unfolding within the contours and elevations of the terrain. Homes, gathering spaces, and amenities take shape not as plans on paper, but as thoughtful reflections of the land.
The architectural vernacular of The Cliffs reflects this sense of place. But it is also defined by the community, the families who call this place home. “Everything here is about social gathering and generations coming together,” says Richard Seay, Director of Sales for The Cliffs. “And we’re seeing our membership getting younger.” That younger membership, he notes, has a much stronger desire for a more contemporary design.
As design trends evolve, the task of the Architectural Review Board (ARB) becomes a careful balancing act, a thoughtful exchange between the traditions that define The Cliffs and the architectural innovations that will carry it forward. “Our Architectural Review Board has done a wonderful job of allowing for some contemporary homes while still keeping the core tenets of lake and mountain house design.” With each community shaping its own aesthetic, that balance is giving rise to homes that honor a true sense of place while reflecting a deeper authenticity.
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
“A community’s strongest statement is the architectural quality of its homes. The degree to which The Cliffs at Walnut Cove is integrated with its rural mountain atmosphere is dependent on the design and setting of each home. An environmentally sensitive design can only be achieved through a careful, wellthought-out response to your particular lot, and the vegetation and topography of the building site.”
-THE CLIFFS AT WALNUT COVE ARCHITECTURAL AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES
Within The Cliffs, perhaps no individual community expresses the timeless tenets of mountain architecture with more genuine care than Walnut Cove. As reflected in the soaring rooflines, Tudor influence, and natural stone and brick of the golf club, the overarching motif is one of alpine serenity. Residents have embraced this timeless ethos, even codifying it with modifications to ARB guidelines in 2016.
“We asked the community at that time to fill out a survey, and they all wanted to keep those more traditional elements with stone exteriors and metal roofing of copper or other high-quality material,” said Courtney Stone-Lipscomb, Director of the Architectural Review Board for The Cliffs.
“But there is a little room for more contemporary styles of craftsman prairie homes. You have to have 20 percent stone on each side, and the roof pitches can’t go as low as other communities,” she explains.
“But you can have big glass or steel accents for a more modern look.”
The stone requirement, enacted as part of the 2016 updates, keeps Walnut Cove firmly rooted in the style of traditional mountain homes. But within those boundaries, architects have been able to coax out a subtle sense of transition, with expansive eaves, cantilevered accents, and expansive window packages that evoke a bold new spirit in mountain design.
Where these architects and builders have shown their true genius is in the way each home, no matter what new elements they incorporate, still feels like part of a cohesive community. “You can see how the amenities and townhomes have those Tudor elements running throughout as well as some of the original developer products,” said Stone-Lipscomb. “That was the theme, but then as time moves on and trends come along, we’ve seen hints of even West Coast elements.”
Designing at Walnut Cove means working with dramatic mountain terrain. Steep slopes and natural contours inspire homes that feel rooted in place, with stone, timber, and glass blending seamlessly into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each residence reflects both structural ingenuity and timeless mountain style, creating a community where architecture and landscape are inseparable.
Glenwood Custom Builders
Glenwood Custom Builders
Photograph by Patrick O’Brien
The Cliffs at Keowee Springs
“Environmentally conscious design is celebrated by using broad-sheltering roofs, low overhangs, expansive eaves, operable doors and glass, shading screens, shade from deciduous trees, and proper orientation for sun, wind, light, and shelter. The Cliffs at Keowee Springs seeks to create architecture that stands in harmony with nature.” -THE CLIFFS AT KEOWEE SPRINGS
With its lakefront setting, Keowee Springs was always destined to stand apart from its sister communities at The Cliffs. While still unmistakably rooted in the mountains, the homes here draw from a broader palette of inspiration, from the American piedmont to Frank Lloyd Wright–style mountain prairie design.
“At Keowee Springs, we are calling for a more modern blend of architecture,” said Stone-Lipscomb. This is not your grandparents’ lake house.
Without specifically endorsing any particular period styles, geographic influences, or historical approaches, the driving aesthetic at Keowee Springs is one in which homes reflect a scale and style that embraces the magnificent waterfront of Lake Keowee.
At Keowee Springs, you’ll find steel and glass joined by stone and wood, homes marked by broad overhangs and strong eaves to soak in lakefront scenery.
“With new technology and techniques, it’s amazing what builders are able to do now,” said Seay. “More modern mountain design is making its way into each of our communities, but we have never lost, nor will we ever lose, that classic mountain house influence.”
Resort Custom Homes
The Lake Club at Keowee Springs, designed by Lake Flato Architects, redefines lakefront living. Broad rooflines, glass walls, and natural materials echo the shoreline, blurring boundaries between indoors and out. More than an amenity, it sets the tone for the contemporary architectural vernacular for Keowee Springs—welcoming, innovative, and in harmony with its spectacular waterfront setting.
Gabriel Builders
Photograph by Patrick O’Brien
Mountain Park’s character shines through its amenities as much as its homes. The rustic cabin nods to classic mountain tradition, while the striking Sports Pavilion brings a contemporary edge. Together, they create an architectural language that balances heritage with innovation, uniting neighbors in spaces designed to both gather and celebrate the surrounding scenery.
Fairview Custom Homes
Gabriel Builders
Photograph by Patrick O’Brien
The Cliffs at Mountain Park
“The Cliffs at Mountain Park introduces a more contemporary architectural palette that unifies the man-made with nature and elevates the everyday to spectacular… The homes in The Cliffs at Mountain Park should be considered as a part of the overall community rather than being viewed as individual structures.” -EXCERPT OF THE CLIFFS AT MOUNTAIN PARK
From its very inception, The Cliffs at Mountain Park was never meant to be a monolith. Nowhere is this more visible than in its amenities, where a vibrant blend of architectural styles each tells a different story. In The Cabin’s rustic allure, we see an unfettered dedication to classic, simple mountain design scaled up to glorious heights. In the contemporary brise-soleil across the front of the Keith Summerour-designed Sports Pavilion, we see iterations of intriguing architectural forms. And in the residences that stretch away from the golf course, we see a Tuscan influence that belies a willingness to throw out all the rules.
“Gary Player designed the golf course, and he wanted that more modern, South African feel,” said Stone-Lipscomb. That blend of influences creates an eclectic yet unified atmosphere in the communal spaces that filters out into the community through
homes that are distinctly mountain cottages, but crafted to more modern tastes. “Overall, I’d say the look in Mountain Park is a mountain cottage feel but with a grander sense of scale and with high-pitched roof lines.”
This manifests in homes that draw inspiration from classic prairie craftsman-style mountain homes, with peaked gables and natural finishes that blend into the natural surroundings. Here and there, you’ll find a more modern window package of tall glass, but for the most part, Mountain Park homes are all about the scenery.
“You definitely enjoy big flashy views here. You walk out your front door and you get multiple views of a variety of ranges right from your house,” said Stone-Lipscomb. This inspirational setting encourages residents to keep it simple when it comes to the structures they build.
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With personalized service, Cliffs Builders ensures a smooth, stress-free journey—delivering not just a home, but a masterpiece where excellence is the standard and your satisfaction comes first.
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HOME AT THE CLIFFS
JULIE & DAVE NESTLER
Q Where are you from and how did you meet?
A Julie: I grew up in Kansas City, and Dave is from Hutchinson, Kansas.
Dave: We met in a bar. We were both going to Kansas State University.
Julie: It was our sophomore year, and a gal that Dave went to high school with was my sorority sister. She introduced us.
Q Where did you go from there?
Dave: After graduation, I started working for a company out of Wichita. Two years later, we were married in Kansas City and then moved to Chicago with my job. We were there for eight years and then were transferred back to Wichita for six years. I changed jobs, and we transferred to Connecticut for four years. Most recently, we lived in West Palm Beach for fifteen years. Kansas will always be home, but our kids grew up in Florida.
Q Tell me about your kids!
A Julie: We have two kids. Our daughter, Jenn, lives in Nashville and is a private chef. Our son, Mike, is in North Palm Beach and has a consulting company specializing in financial analysis. Both are married. No kids yet. Lots of granddogs!
Q How did you find The Cliffs?
Julie: Kind of dumb luck, actually! We took our son to a basketball camp at Duke University for a week. We saw an ad for The Cliffs and thought we’d check it out. We were not planning on buying anything, and we initially looked in The Mountain Region. But they put us up on the lake at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, and we just loved the lake. So we ended up buying a homesite at Keowee Falls! The plan was to wait ten years, but of course, we built a house the next year. We just fell in love with everything about it.
THE CLIFFS AT KEOWEE FALLS
Q That is the house you live in now?
A Julie: No! When Dave retired in 2016, we sold our home in Florida. We built that first house as a summer lake house, not for retirement. So we bought this homesite and built this house! It was finished in 2019.
Q Why do you think you settled here?
A Dave: The lake, the golf courses, the outdoors. We are very active, and there is so much to do here. I don’t particularly like crowds and cities, so this is very comfortable for us.
Julie: And the people. We have made great friends here. We didn’t know one person when we bought our homesite! And when Dave retired, I threw a party for him and sixty friends came—all from The Cliffs!
Q How would you describe the community?
A Julie: I think it started as a big golf community, but now there is so much going on. There are hiking groups, book clubs, charity organizations, Bunco and Mahjong, dinner clubs, and of course, the wellness center with tennis and pickleball. We are really into golf.
Q Do you compete against each other?
A Dave: We definitely compete. I said when Julie first started learning that if my wife ever beats me in golf, I’ll quit. I’ve had to change that—if she ever beats me from the same tees, then I have to quit. And I’m not dumb enough to play the same tees as her!
Q What do you think is so special about The Cliffs?
A Julie: The club is great, very friendly and familyoriented. And they take care of people. When someone is sick or loses a spouse, the community really pulls together and helps out. The staff does a terrific job of getting to know the members and providing a great experience for everyone.
HOME
AT THE CLIFFS THE CLIFFS VALLEY RICK & JOAN SCHWEIZER
Q Where are you from?
A Joan: We are both from Maryland. I grew up in a small town called Elkton.
Rick: And I grew up in Annapolis.
Q How did you meet?
Rick: We met in our senior year at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. I was living with a fraternity brother above an antiques store, and Joan lived above the workshop with a couple of girls.
Joan: My roommate was waitressing at a motel where Rick was a night desk clerk. She would grab rides with him to the motel restaurant. So they started coming over to our place a lot and vice versa. That’s how it started!
Rick: She was an accounting major, and I was an economics major, and we had one class that overlapped. She was a better student than me.
Joan: We got married right after college graduation. Back then, everyone did!
Q Where did you go next?
A Joan: Rick went to graduate school right after college, and I got a job in Washington, D.C. When he finished, he moved to Washington. We spent our entire working lives in that area.
Q How did you find The Cliffs?
Joan: My best friend lives in Woodruff, South Carolina. Her husband bought a round of golf at The Cliffs Valley in a charity auction in 1998, and he brought Rick to play. At the time, there wasn’t even a clubhouse. We thought that would be a good place to be.
Rick: We wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle at some point. So we watched The Cliffs grow over the years and add other communities. We liked that when you are a member of one club, you are a
member of all seven communities. When we started thinking about retiring in 2008, we came down to look at property. First, we bought a homesite in Mountain Park, but then we found this house in The Cliffs Valley in 2013. We were still working at the time, so it was perfect for us.
Q Do you play golf?
A Joan: We play a lot of golf. I play in three ladies’ groups, and Rick plays in three men’s groups. We golf together on Sundays.
Rick: I play in some of the interclub competitions within The Cliffs and other neighboring clubs. So I get to see a lot of other courses.
Q What else do you like to do?
A Joan: We’ve volunteered a lot since we’ve been here. We do Adopt a Highway every quarter, and I work with Meals on Wheels. I’ve been involved with the Ladies Golf Association, and we’ve both been on committees at the Property Owners Association.
Rick: And we love to travel. It’s pretty easy to fly from here, and we’ve been to all of the continents and on a lot of European trips. Most recently, we visited Namibia and South Africa, and in a few weeks, we are taking a cruise from Iceland to Greenland and Canada.
Joan: We have a map upstairs that we put pins in for each place we visit. There is still a lot of world to see!
Q How would you describe the community here?
A Joan: It is very social and welcoming, with so many ways to be active. I think that’s what makes The Cliffs so special—the people.
Rick: It is full of good people. I can tell you story after story of people helping other people in a time of need. And little things too, like if you need a cup of sugar, you just call a neighbor.
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EXPECTATIONS EXCEEDED
BUILDING A CUSTOM HOME AT THE CLIFFS SHOULD BE AS REWARDING OF AN EXPERIENCE AS LIVING HERE.
Excellence in custom home building requires innovation, vision, and a dedication to exceeding expectations. The Cliffs Preferred Builders Program comprises the region’s finest custom home builders.
By choosing to build your custom home at The Cliffs with one of our Preferred Builders, you’re choosing a superior building model that not only executes your vision, but incorporates impeccable quality, thoughtful design, meticulous attention to detail, and committed collaboration—from start to finish.
SIGHTS OF THE CLIFFS
Cindi Berry
Aimee Garrett
Michael Dugan
Jennifer Amundsen Hucks
Kelly Barnes
Cindi Berry
John Stanney
Kathleen Albinger-Hartigan
Tony Lowe
Sondra Vladem Scott Cordes
Carmen Horton
Scott Cordes
Lucy Trent
Darlene Keelor
Jim McKenzie
Nicole Geller
John Tripoli
Scott Pritchard
Ryan Draayer
Chrissy Anderson
David Allen
PEOPLE OF THE CLIFFS
Scott Cordes
Lucy Trent
Kelly Barnes
Scott Cordes
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IN JUNE, CLIFFS RESIDENTS OUTREACH HOSTED A FUNDRAISER AT THE CLIFFS AT GLASSY. ADVENTURE AWAITS: A JOURNEY FOR THE CHILDREN INCLUDED TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS, A LIVE AND SILENT AUCTION, AND A RAFFLE. OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, THE ORGANIZATION HAS RAISED MORE THAN $5 MILLION.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
A LEGACY OF GIVING
Story by Scott Wallace | Photographs by Zack Peeler
There’s a quiet current running through The Cliffs, one that doesn’t show up on the golf course or in property listings but reveals itself in a very different kind of investment. It’s a culture of giving, built not just on generosity, but also on a deep commitment to community. Over the years, this spirit has become a part of the fabric of life at The Cliffs—a legacy of giving passed from neighbor to neighbor, year after year.
At the heart of this effort is the Cliffs Residents Outreach (CRO), a volunteer-driven organization that connects the talents and resources of members of The Cliffs to the needs of more than 25,000 Upstate students. The mission is straightforward but powerful: to remove barriers, enrich experiences, and improve outcomes for students across the region. And while the public school system in South Carolina faces ongoing funding challenges—especially in areas like literacy and STEM—the response from within these gates has been extraordinary.
Since its founding in 2007, CRO has grown in both scope and impact. Over the past six years, the organization has raised more than $5.5 million from
1,500+ residents of The Cliffs across its South Carolina communities. And yet, its heartbeat remains the same: 100 percent volunteer-run, with low overhead and high impact.
What makes it work? The people. It’s the member who mentors a student. The couple who show up every year to help plan a fundraiser. The librarian who’s no longer alone because a volunteer from The Cliffs now helps every Thursday. It’s not just about writing a check—every hour spent tutoring, organizing a fundraiser, or mentoring a student is an investment in the future of this community. At The Cliffs, giving takes many forms, but it always begins with a personal commitment to make a difference. The sense of momentum is tangible, and so is the joy. As one member put it, “You can feel the energy in the room at every CRO event. It’s inspiring.”
And it’s not just good feelings—it’s good stewardship. In 2024, Secretary of State Mark Hammond honored CRO as one of only ten charities to receive an Angel Award, which recognizes charitable organizations for their financial transparency and accountability. And in 2025, the South Carolina School Boards
Association named CRO a Champion for Public Education. The team works closely with local principals and district leaders to review every funding request, ensuring resources go where they’re needed most.
More than 80 percent of CRO’s annual revenue comes from individual members of The Cliffs, many of whom give year after year. Thirty-two corporate partners who believe in the mission and see its results donate the rest.
This legacy of giving at The Cliffs mirrors the values that have always defined this community: a commitment to enriching lives, supporting the next generation, and leaving a lasting impact on the world around us. Every act of service, whether big or small, helps build the long-term foundation of this community’s spirit.
Many members of The Cliffs have built careers around hard work, leadership, and vision. Now they’re channeling that same drive into creating opportunities for the next generation. It’s not just philanthropy—it’s legacy. And it’s one of the most defining things about life at The Cliffs.
Planting Seeds That Last
At The Cliffs, giving focuses on long-term impact. These “evergreen” initiatives reflect a deep investment in the lives and futures of local students.
A Head Start for Life
Through support of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, CRO helps young children begin their journey with books long before they enter a classroom. For just $2.30 per book, kids between the ages of two and five receive a new title each month, delivered straight to their doorsteps. Today, over 3,500 young readers across eight Pickens County zip codes are enrolled, and the results speak for themselves: Kindergarten teachers say these children arrive better prepared to learn, with stories already woven into their daily lives.
Reviving the Library
School libraries are where many children fall in love with reading, but too many fall short of basic standards. Over the past three years, CRO has invested nearly $400,000 in books and digital content for Upstate media centers, curating collections that span genres, age groups, and reading levels. The goal is simple: to spark curiosity, nurture imagination, and build a foundation for lifelong learning.
Join Us!
Whether you’re ready to volunteer, curious to learn more, or simply want to share your ideas, your insight and involvement are always welcome. Together, we’re creating lasting change—one student, one school, one community at a time. To learn more about CRO initiatives, visit CliffsResidentsOutreach.org.
STEM on Wheels
In partnership with Duke Energy and Clemson University, CRO helped fund a van that has been reimagined as a mobile STEM lab, bringing robotics, 3D printing, coding, and more directly to school parking lots. Run by the Pickens County School District, the lab rotates through the area and has reached over 4,100 students at ten schools this year. With plans to add AI and drone stations next year, this rolling classroom shows kids that science and technology aren’t just class subjects—they’re doorways to future careers.
LAST LOOK
HOSPITALITY WITH HEART
The Shepherd Hotel in Clemson has carved a unique and enduring legacy as a beacon of inclusive hospitality and community impact. Founded in 2022 by Rick Hayduk, whose own daughter’s Down syndrome inspired the mission, and Rich Davies, with support from Clemson’s Dabo Swinney, the boutique hotel was created with a mission to provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly graduates of the ClemsonLIFE program. With its warm, inclusive atmosphere and thoughtfully designed spaces, The Shepherd Hotel has become more than just a place to stay; it is a symbol of dignity, opportunity, and community. Its legacy continues to inspire, proving that hospitality can be both world-class and deeply compassionate.
At The Cliffs, we celebrate The Shepherd Hotel’s enduring legacy of compassion and community—values that reflect the spirit of our own communities.
