It’s common knowledge: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. That is unless you’re talking about Murphy, North Carolina’s Grand Vista community.It’s here, nestled in the southern tip of both the Appalachian Mountains and the Great Smokies, that you’ll find what they like to call the “grand life,” surrounded by breathtaking views and a healthy dose of peace and quiet, not to mention community events and outdoor activities, from fishing to rafting; hiking to horse-back riding—and all within 600 acres of uninterrupted natural landscape.
What’s so special about Grand Vista?
While the best part about Grand Vista is arguably the lack of activity (this is definitely the kind of place where you could get lost in a book for hours, even days), there’s still plenty to keep you busy. Situated on 300,100 acres (92,363 of which are protected by the U.S. Forest Service), the area surrounding Grand Vista also boasts 8,700 acres of lakes, with two major rivers running directly through Cherokee County. And, thanks to the mild climate (the average temp hovers right around 60 degrees), you’ll have 12 full months to take advantage of all the recreational activities Grand Vista has to offer.Upon arrival at the community, you’ll find it hard to decide what to do first. Well-maintained, tree-lined hiking trails wind throughout the property, providing residents with a safe pathway to explore the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. You have the option to hit the trails by foot or on horseback (the community has its own eight-stall barn onsite), and you can take advantage of the trails’ rest areas, fire pits and exercise stations along the way.
One hundred acres of the community’s land has been set aside for mainstream sporting activities, like horseshoes, putting greens, basketball and volleyball. There are even plans for a full-sized tennis court, featuring 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Anglers will enjoy world-class amenities thanks to western North Carolina’s miles of pristine rivers and an onsite trout pond. And if you like to spend time on the water instead of in it, set sail on Cherokee County’s bountiful lakes and reservoirs by raft, kayak, canoe or sailboat.
More of a landlubber? Get around by golf cart at any of the area’s six golf courses. Tee off early at Brasstown Valley Resort, which has been ranked by Golf Digest as one of the best in Georgia, and features environmentally friendly greens. Or hop on over the Tennessee border to practice your short game with a quick nine holes at Copper Basin Golf Club in Copperhill. Once your game is up to par (literally), drive down the road to the course at The Ridges Country Club in Hayesville, North Carolina. Although the club’s amenities are exclusive to members, anyone can play the course.
And that’s not all the area has to offer. Western North Carolina is home to a wealth of cultural and visual arts. From traditional Appalachian crafts to glassblowing, pottery or metalworking, you’ll find that art is part of the lifestyle here. There also are abundant shows, craft fairs and classes offered in the area, especially at the John C. Campbell Folk School. And during the warmer seasons, you can enjoy live musical performances and festivals, featuring food and concerts.
Living the Life
An ever-expanding outdoor oasis of 500 home sites, Grand Vista is only in the beginning stages of development and construction, which means that you still have time, but don’t wait too long—sites are going fast.Grand Vista offers numerous options for your dream mountain home. Choose from log, stone, timber frame or wood-sided homes that will be built on lots that showcase the site’s natural beauty. Each property has been designed to incorporate trees, views and proximity to amenities with minimal impact on the environment.
And if that wasn’t enough, the folks at Grand Vista are in the process of building Cherokee County’s first “green” home, provided by Katahdin Cedar Log Homes, a Forest Stewardship Council- certified log provider. This model is one of the available plans and includes features like low-E windows, Energy Star appliances, solar water heating, and recycled cabinetry and hardwood flooring—just to name a few.
Inside the gated community, you’ll find the elegant-yet-rustic clubhouse, which provides a gathering spot for residents with all the comforts of home, including Amish log furniture, a stone fireplace and a well-appointed kitchen. Outside, take a dip in the “beach entry” pool, complete with a grotto and hot tub. There’s also an event pavilion with a custom outdoor kitchen, perfect for parties with residents or guests.
So, hurry up and make the move. The grand life is waiting.
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