Georgia, often celebrated for its southern charm, lush landscapes, and rich history, is home to a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with an outdoor lover’s paradise at Sky Valley. Located at the intersection of the Georgia and North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains between Clayton, Georgia, and Highlands, North Carolina, Sky Valley is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and has pristine mountain terrain featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and phenomenal views.
Having the distinction of being the highest and northernmost city in Georgia, with an elevation of 4,200 feet, Sky Valley allows you to immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The city’s centerpiece is the 15,000-square-foot, member-owned Sky Valley Country Club, home to the par-72 championship golf course and two championship croquet lawns. However, there is much more to Sky Valley than just a round of golf or a game of Croquet. In addition to golf and croquet, there are many other activities to discover, such as tennis, pickleball, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, camping, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, bird-watching, and even zip lining.
With so many activities to partake in and the year-round mild temperatures, it is no wonder that some call Sky Valley Heaven on Earth!
SKY VALLEY GOLF
The Sky Valley Country Club’s course, a part of the Georgia Golf Trail, is strategically situated amid the stunning beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers an intriguing blend of challenge and enjoyment.
Designed by architect Bill Watts, the course features 18 holes that cater to players of all skill levels. As players make their way through the course, they are treated to glimpses of lush forests, meandering streams, and an array of vibrant flora and fauna. This harmonious integration of the course with its natural surroundings enhances the golfing experience and fosters a deep appreciation for the environment.
Head Pro Steve Heher says, “Sky Valley is a fantastic layout. It’s a mountain golf course that winds its way through the valley. It features great views from the elevated tees at the 2nd, 8th, 12th, 15th, and 17th holes. Our signature hole is the par-3 15th, which has a 60-foot elevation drop from tee to green.”
With a par of 72, the course offers a balanced mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s, ensuring that players must employ a variety of shots and strategies to navigate the terrain. The undulating landscape presents golfers with elevation changes and plateaus, adding an exciting dimension to the game.
SKY VALLEY CROQUET
The Croquet Lawns blend tradition and nature, offering an atmosphere that promotes leisure and camaraderie. Most days, the lawn is alive with the sounds of players engaged in friendly matches with club members or organized tournaments against teams from neighboring clubs. This elegant pastime provides a great way to socialize and brings people together in a beautiful and engaging way.
Players who enjoy a challenge can experience the excitement and competitiveness of golf croquet as they skillfully navigate the wickets with mallets in hand. This increasingly popular variant of the classic game offers a fresh take on the game, making golf croquet a delightful addition to the world of lawn sports.
A MOUNTAIN-FRIENDLY LIFESTYLE
Sky Valley, Georgia’s lifestyle epitomizes a tranquil and close-knit mountain community, offering a harmonious blend of nature-centric living and relaxed charm. Residents and guests enjoy a slower pace of life characterized by breathtaking vistas, fresh mountain air, and a strong sense of community. This community radiates warmth and kindness, strengthening neighborly bonds and lifelong friendships.
The sense of camaraderie is evident in local events and gatherings, where residents come together to celebrate festivals, share stories, and create lasting memories. The tight-knit social fabric is a testament to the welcoming nature of the community.
The unhurried lifestyle allows you to savor the simple joys of each day and relish in the beautiful surroundings.
SKY VALLEY: STAY & PLAY
Moments away from the tranquility of Sky Valley Country Club are hundreds of shops, high-end restaurants, award-winning vineyards, spas, arts and antiques.
For those seeking accommodations for a customized golf getaway, the area offers a plethora of top-rated places to stay, including chain hotels, family-run inns, RV resorts, boutique lodges and more.
According to TripAdvisor.com, the five top-rated places to stay, within about a 10-mile radius of the golf course, include the Beechwood Inn, voted the #1 B&B in Clayton, Georgia, along with The Park on Main Hotel, Old Edwards Inn and Spa, 200 Main, and Skyline Lodge, all located in Highlands, North Carolina.
IN CONCLUSION
Sky Valley, Georgia, offers an immersive experience in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the charm of Southern mountain living, where people take the time to care for one another.
If you are ready to relax and be rejuvenated, visit Sky Valley, Georgia, where an extraordinary quality of life exists.
For more information, please visit skyvalleyga.com or skyvalleycountryclub.com.
