Explore the Rich History of Highland Lake Inn & Resort
Nestled in the charming village of Flat Rock, just minutes from Hendersonville, NC, the Highland Lake Inn & Resort is more than a destination—it’s a living chapter of local history. For anyone considering a move to Hendersonville or just looking for meaningful things to do in Hendersonville, this resort offers a captivating fusion of heritage, hospitality, and natural beauty.
From Grist Mill Beginnings to Grand Getaways
The story of Highland Lake begins in 1789 when John Earle, a Revolutionary War veteran from South Carolina, received a land grant and built the first grist mill on the property. This small mill, powered by a waterfall-fed stream, laid the foundation for what would become a sought-after destination centuries later.
The area originally took the name “Flat Rock” in 1807, inspired by a massive granite outcrop where Native American and European traders once exchanged goods. By 1848, Charles Baring, a Charleston aristocrat, built the estate “Solitude” on the hill above what we now know as Highland Lake.
A Residence for Southern Elite
Throughout the 19th century, the estate passed through the hands of several historically significant families. South Carolina Governor William Aiken purchased the land in 1873, passing it on to his daughter Henrietta Aiken Rhett, who transformed the property into Rhett’s Mill, which sat beside Rhett’s Pond—today’s Highland Lake.
By 1910, the area took a new direction with the creation of the Highland Lake Club, a visionary attempt by Charleston and Columbia business leaders to develop a lakeside resort complete with rustic cottages, a clubhouse, and even an 18-hole golf course—the only one of its kind in WNC at the time.
Education, Entertainment, and Evolving Purposes
Though short-lived, the Highland Lake Club’s closure gave rise to new ideas. Over the decades, the land played host to the Fleet School for Boys, Camp Brandeis, and the Carolina Military and Naval Academy. In a particularly colorful chapter, the old mill was transformed by Robroy Farquhar into The Old Mill Playhouse, featuring early performances by actresses like Kim Hunter and Joanne Woodward. This venue laid the groundwork for what would become the renowned Flat Rock Playhouse, designated as the State Theater of North Carolina in 1961.
By the mid-20th century, the property once again reshaped its identity as Our Lady of the Hills Camp, the region’s first racially integrated Catholic youth retreat. Each iteration left its mark, contributing to the depth of character that visitors feel even today.
Highland Lake Inn & Resort: A Modern Treasure
In 1985, the Lindsey family purchased the property, transforming it into what would eventually become the Highland Lake Inn & Resort. Their vision — a mountain retreat that blends rustic charm with upscale comfort — is now carried on by Linda and Jack Grup. The Grups have lovingly renovated and expanded the resort over the past two decades, preserving both its environmental and historical integrity.
Today, guests can enjoy a wide variety of amenities including cozy cabins, lakeside lodging, walking trails, gardens, and acclaimed farm-to-table dining at Season’s Restaurant. Whether you’re seeking a family vacation, a romantic weekend, or a spot for your next big event, Highland Lake is steeped in genuine Southern hospitality.
A Story Worth Experiencing
For newcomers moving to Hendersonville, Highland Lake Inn & Resort represents the area’s deep-rooted appreciation for community and land preservation. It’s not just a place to stay—it invites you to step into history while enjoying modern comfort and mountain serenity.
Learn more about Flat Rock’s cultural happenings, local authors, and community-driven good news through Flat Rock Together, a platform that celebrates the stories behind this storied village.
Plan Your Visit or Stay
- Book a room or pavilion at Highland Lake Inn & Resort
- Catch a show at the Flat Rock Playhouse
- Explore the historic trails and cultural landmarks across Flat Rock and nearby Hendersonville
- Dine at Season’s Restaurant and experience locally grown, garden-to-table cuisine
Whether you’re here for a weekend or you choose to relocate to Hendersonville and make this area your home, Highland Lake Inn & Resort serves as a perfect point of immersion into the area’s rich past and vibrant present.