Build in Kenmure: Golf, Mountain Views, and Luxury Living in Flat Rock, NC
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Build in Kenmure: Golf, Mountain Views, and Luxury Living in Flat Rock, NC
Imagine driving through a canopy of oaks as the gates of Kenmure swing open, revealing a landscape where mountain peaks roll into manicured fairways. The air is crisp, the pace unhurried, and every detail whispers of refinement. For those dreaming of a luxury home in the Blue Ridge Mountains, there may be no better place to build than Kenmure — a private, gated golf community in Flat Rock, NC, just minutes from the vibrant downtown of Hendersonville.
In this guide, we’ll take you inside the experience of living — and building — in Kenmure. From its championship golf course to its historic antebellum clubhouse, from the natural beauty of Flat Rock to the arts and dining of Hendersonville, this is more than a neighborhood. Kenmure is a lifestyle.
FEATURED LISTING:
Build Your Dream Home at
101 Scenic Drive
Rare 1.48-acre homesite ready for your luxury build on Glassy Mountain in the private golf community of Kenmure.
Enjoy 24/7 security and an optional country club lifestyle—championship golf, clubhouse, dining, fitness, pools, and tennis—just minutes to Historic Flat Rock and Hendersonville amenities.
The privately sited property with dramatic rock outcroppings, a lightly wooded canopy, and a gentle-to-moderate slope streamlines site preparation. Selective clearing may open layered mountain and treetop views while preserving serenity.
Paved road frontage and community-maintained infrastructure for straightforward build planning.
Bordered by the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site on two sides of the lot for additional 264-acres of natural privacy and easy access to its network of hiking trails and features. Build your mountain-top retreat where nature, privacy, and convenience meet!
An Active Lifestyle Beyond Golf in Kenmure
Kenmure’s appeal extends far beyond the fairways. Residents describe the community as “a cruise ship on land” — full of activities and opportunities to connect.
Social clubs include book groups, gardening, bridge, and hiking.
Wellness programs range from yoga to water aerobics.
Kenmure Newcomers & Neighbors ensures every resident feels welcome.
Volunteerism is strong, with residents supporting local charities, arts, and conservation.
Visit the Kenmure Property Owners Association for a glimpse of community life.
Clubhouse & Luxury Amenities
At the heart of Kenmure life is the clubhouse, where the elegance of the antebellum mansion meets modern luxury. It’s more than a dining hall — it’s the social hub of the community.
Kenmure Clubhouse
Fine & Casual Dining: From holiday galas in the ballroom to casual evenings at the grill, the menus rival downtown bistros.
Pools & Fitness: A modern fitness center, aerobics studio, indoor saline pool, outdoor lap pool, and sauna keep residents active.
Racquet Sports: Tennis and pickleball thrive at the racquet club, where clinics, socials, and tournaments fill the calendar.
Events: Weddings, concerts, wine tastings, and speaker series draw both residents and guests.
Fast Stats: Flat Rock NC
According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data:
- Flat Rock Population: ~3,486
- Henderson County Population: ~122,000
- Median Age in Flat Rock: 63.4
- Median Household Income in Flat Rock: ~$103,981
The town promotes a community-first, community-strong motto centered around the Flat Rock Village area. Luxury homes dot the landscape from Kenmure to stately homes off Little River Road.
Climate: Four Seasons of Fun
There’s a reason nearby Hendersonville is called the City of Four Seasons—but here, winter doesn’t bite and summer doesn’t boil. According to WeatherSpark and climate haven indexes:
- Summer highs: ~84°F (July)
- Winter lows: ~29°F (January)
- Annual snowfall: ~7 inches (light and short-lived)
- Annual rainfall: ~48 inches (lush without being soggy)
- Humidity: Manageable compared to the Deep South
- Air quality: High—thanks to elevation, forest canopy, and light industry
As climate shifts hit coastal and urban zones, Western NC (including Hendersonville) is gaining attention as a climate haven—a region with stable weather, water security, and natural resilience.
The Kenmure Experience: Mountain Charm Meets Southern Elegance
<
p data-start=”1593″ data-end=”1903″>Set on 1,400 acres of rolling woodland, Kenmure combines the tranquility of a mountain retreat with the luxury amenities of a country club. Anchored by the Kenmure Mansion, a restored 1850s Greek Revival estate that once welcomed Southern gentry, the community blends history with modern convenience.
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p data-start=”1905″ data-end=”1989″>As one resident put it, “You come for the golf, but you stay for the community.”
Gated security ensures privacy and peace of mind.
Underground utilities keep views pristine.
Miles of scenic drives and walking trails weave through towering pines.
Every home — whether custom-built or resale — enjoys a backdrop of mountain panoramas or lush fairways.
Kenmure Golf:
A Championship Course in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Kenmure Golf Course in Flat Rock NC
For golf enthusiasts, Kenmure golf is more than a pastime — it’s the community’s heartbeat. Designed by renowned architect Joe Lee, the 18-hole, par-72 course stretches over 6,509 yards of fairways and greens framed by mountain vistas.
Playability: The course offers challenge for seasoned golfers while remaining enjoyable for newer players.
Facilities: A driving range, practice greens, and two Class A PGA pros ensure year-round improvement.
Community: Weekly leagues, tournaments, and mixers foster both competition and camaraderie.
The historic clubhouse overlooking the 18th hole provides a natural gathering place, where post-round drinks flow into long dinners under chandeliers.
📖 Learn more about Kenmure Country Club.
Flat Rock: The “Little Charleston of the Mountains”
Flat Rock Village in Flat Rock NC
Just outside Kenmure’s gates lies Flat Rock, a village steeped in culture and charm. Known as the “Little Charleston of the Mountains,” Flat Rock blends historic estates with an artistic spirit.
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site: Explore the estate of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, with hiking trails and goat barns for families. Learn more on the NPS site.
Flat Rock Playhouse: The State Theatre of North Carolina stages Broadway-quality performances.
Dining: Cafés and farm-to-table restaurants line the village streets, offering a taste of local flavor.
Top Restaurants, Bakeries & Coffee Shops in Flat Rock, NC
Living in Kenmure means you’re just minutes from some of Flat Rock’s most beloved eateries. Whether it’s a morning latte, an artisan pastry, or a fine-dining experience after a round of golf, this village offers something for every craving.
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Campfire Grill in Flat Rock NC
1. Hubba Hubba Smokehouse
A Flat Rock institution, Hubba Hubba Smokehouse is famous for its wood-smoked BBQ served in a rustic courtyard setting. Locals love the pulled pork, brisket, and house-made sauces — perfect for a casual lunch after hiking or golf.
2. Flat Rock Wood Room
Flat Rock Wood Room blends award-winning BBQ with wood-fired pizzas and comfort food classics. Their ribs and brisket sandwiches are crowd favorites, and the relaxed vibe makes it a hit with both families and golfers.
3. Campfire Grill
Located in the Flat Rock Village Bakery complex, Campfire Grill offers farm-to-table fare with a Southern twist. Known for hearty breakfasts and seasonal dishes, it’s a cozy spot for brunch or a casual dinner.
4. Flat Rock Village Bakery
Flat Rock Village Bakery is a destination for artisan breads, wood-fired pizzas, and pastries. Locals line up for their cinnamon rolls, sourdough loaves, and espresso drinks. A must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
5. Hubbaloo
Hubbaloo brings a playful twist to Flat Rock dining, offering creative American comfort food in a casual, family-friendly setting. Their burgers, tacos, and inventive appetizers make it a lively spot for dinner or weekend gatherings.
6. The Wrinkled Egg
Part general store, part café, The Wrinkled Egg is a beloved Flat Rock staple. Stop in for soups, sandwiches, or just a cup of locally roasted coffee while browsing Appalachian crafts and gifts.
7. Ruby de Noche
For an elevated dining experience, Ruby de Noche offers small-plate, tapas style dining in an intimate setting. Expect dishes that fuse bold flavors with locally sourced ingredients, paired with curated wines and craft cocktails.
Nearby Hendersonville: Vibrant, Accessible, and Welcoming
A 10-minute drive brings you to Hendersonville, one of North Carolina’s most livable mountain towns. Here, small-town hospitality meets big-city convenience.
Downtown Main Street: Lined with boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops, and breweries.
Festivals: The Apple Festival, Garden Jubilee, and Rhythm & Brews concerts bring the community together.
Healthcare: Major providers like AdventHealth, Pardee UNC Health, and Mission Hospital ensure top-tier medical care.
Access: Asheville Regional Airport is just 30 minutes away, with Charlotte and Greenville-Spartanburg within 90 minutes.
Luxury Home Builders
Perfectly Paired to Your Vision of Kenmure Living
Building in Kenmure isn’t just about finding the perfect lot — it’s about choosing the right builder who understands both the mountain terrain and the expectations of luxury buyers. Western North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina are home to several highly regarded custom builders with experience in Kenmure, Champion Hills, Carriage Park, and other gated golf communities.
1. Living Stone Design + Build
Living Stone Design + Build is one of Asheville’s most award-winning luxury builders, specializing in Green-Certified custom homes. Known for mountain modern and timeless craftsman designs, they’ve built extensively in Hendersonville and Flat Rock. Their “turnkey concierge” process includes site evaluation, architectural design, and interior finishes.
2. Buchanan Construction
Based in Asheville, Buchanan Construction has earned a reputation for high-end energy-efficient homes. They’re frequently the builder of choice in gated golf communities where clients want luxury blended with sustainability. Their in-house design team helps translate client visions into homes that sit gracefully on sloped lots.
3. Glennwood Custom Builders
With a strong presence in Henderson and Buncombe counties, Glennwood is known for artisan-quality finishes and mountain estates. They are frequently seen in Kenmure and Champion Hills, where their stonework, timber framing, and elegant mountain lodge designs blend seamlessly with the Blue Ridge landscape.
4. Osada Construction
Osada Construction has a reputation for European-inspired mountain estates, including luxury residences in Flat Rock and Biltmore Forest. Their homes emphasize fine woodworking, outdoor living spaces, and a high level of craftsmanship. Osada works closely with architects to ensure each home is both functional and timeless.
5. Amarx Construction
Asheville-based Amarx Construction delivers modern luxury mountain homes. Known for combining smart technology, open floorplans, and expansive outdoor living areas, Amarx is a strong option for buyers wanting a blend of contemporary and traditional styles in Kenmure.
Top-rated Wineries and Breweries Near Flat Rock
Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp ciders, hoppy ales, or smooth Appalachian whiskey, the Cheers! Trail is Henderson County’s toast to local flavor. It’s the only craft beverage trail in North Carolina that showcases five categories—wine, cider, beer, mead, and spirits—and it’s a defining part of the area’s culture.
Here are standout stops locals and visitors alike rave about:
🍷 Stone Ashe Vineyards — stoneashevineyards.com
Perched at 2,700 feet on Green Mountain, Stone Ashe is a Bordeaux-inspired vineyard producing high-elevation wines like Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Petit Verdot. Its sleek, modern tasting room offers panoramic views that feel like Tuscany met the Blue Ridge. Open to adults 21+.
🍷 Marked Tree Vineyard — markedtreevineyard.com
Set on the Eastern Continental Divide in Flat Rock, this is a stunningly designed estate winery with varietals like Grüner Veltliner, Petit Verdot, and Chardonnay. Enjoy flights indoors or on the patio while gazing across vines that stretch toward the mountains.
🍷 Burntshirt Vineyards — burntshirtvineyards.com
Award-winning wines from estate-grown grapes. Enjoy tastings with music and views of the Henderson County countryside.
🍷 Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards — saintpaulfarms.com
The region’s first vineyard, with varietals grown on land farmed by the same family for over nine generations.
Downtown nano-brewery serving up IPAs, stouts, and fruited sours. Great for events, live music, and laid-back afternoons.
🍺 Trailside Brewing — trailsidebrews.com
Located just off the planned Ecusta Trail, Trailside Brewing is all about adventure, beer, and community. Expect a rotating tap list of crisp lagers, juicy IPAs, and innovative seasonals, served in a modern taproom with indoor/outdoor spaces, live music, and local food trucks. It’s quickly becoming a gathering hub for cyclists, hikers, and neighbors alike.
🍎 Bold Rock Hard Cider — millsriver.boldrock.com
Located in Mills River, Bold Rock is one of the largest craft cider producers in the country. The taproom features floor-to-ceiling windows, a full kitchen, and regular live music. Ciders range from classic apple and pear to limited-edition seasonal blends. The space includes a cider garden, stage, and behind-the-scenes tours. Local tip: don’t miss out on Wednesday night trivia!
🍺Dry Falls Brewing Company — dryfallsbrewing.com
Housed in a former auto shop near downtown Hendersonville, Dry Falls is a family-run brewery serving approachable, true-to-style craft beers. Favorites include the Kolsch, Amber Ale, and New England IPA. The vibe is industrial-chic, with a rotating lineup of food trucks and live music events throughout the week.
🍺Mills River Brewing Company — millsriverbrewingco.com
Tucked into a wooded property with its own hiking trails, this brewery offers a lineup inspired by local rivers and peaks—from Big Creek Amber to Middle Fork Mosaic IPA. The expansive indoor and outdoor seating areas host frequent live music, food trucks, and community events. It’s a favorite stop for bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and great for families.
🍺 Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. — sierranevada.com
Mills River’s shining beer castle. Take a brewery tour, enjoy chef-made small plates, and sip legendary craft brews in the garden.
🥃 Two Trees Distilling Co. — twotreesdistilling.com
Craft whiskey with a sustainable edge. Visit the tasting room to try traditional and flavored varieties.
Trail Tip: Grab a Cheers! Trail Passport from the Visitor Center or CheersTrail.org to earn prizes and unlock tasting perks across the county.
Where is Flat Rock, NC located?
Flat Rock is a historic village in Henderson County, just 5–10 minutes south of downtown Hendersonville and about 30 minutes from Asheville. Its location makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet mountain retreat with easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare.
Why is Flat Rock called the “Little Charleston of the Mountains”?
In the 1800s, wealthy families from Charleston, SC built summer estates in Flat Rock to escape the coastal heat. Their influence brought Southern architecture, gardens, and culture, which earned the village its charming nickname.
What are the main attractions in Flat Rock?
Flat Rock is home to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site (a preserved estate with hiking trails and goat barns) and the Flat Rock Playhouse, North Carolina’s State Theatre. Visitors also enjoy boutique shopping, local cafés, and art galleries.
Is Flat Rock a good place to retire?
Yes. Flat Rock offers a mix of luxury communities like Kenmure, a mild four-season climate, and close proximity to Hendersonville’s healthcare providers. Its small-town charm and active cultural scene make it especially popular with retirees seeking both tranquility and community.
How far is Flat Rock from major airports and cities?
Flat Rock is about 30 minutes from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), 45 minutes from Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP), and around 90 minutes from Charlotte (CLT). This makes it convenient for both regional and out-of-state travel while maintaining its mountain village appeal.
Meet the Team at Live Play WNC
Your favorite real estate team for Western North Carolina & Upstate South Carolina!
Ryan McAbee
Broker/Realtor®
Suzanne McAbee
Broker/Realtor®
Live Play WNC
404 South Main Street, Hendersonville
- Ryan and Suzanne are truly the best realtors with outstanding communication and extensive knowledge of the area. Ryan did a great job of listening to what we both were looking for in our new home and worked hard to find the right one for … More us. They thoroughly researched every home we considered to make sure we had all the info we needed before making an offer. We love our new home and highly recommend them!!!
- We recently purchased a home in Hendersonville and Ryan and Suzanne were outstanding!. Our first day of looking Ryan was able to really understand what we were looking for. This proved to be extremely valuable as we were remote. Many … More times Ryan was able to prescreen a home and tell us to not spend the time driving up and back. Also, many times Ryan would go to a home and do a video walk through for us - this was extremely valuable and helpful! Ryan's attention to detail and total understanding of us was what made this hard process almost easy. Suzanne's attention to detail allowed us to not worry about the details. during the offer and purchase processes. Together Ryan and Suzanne are a great team and an extreme pleasure to work with.
- We recently purchased a home in Hendersonville and Ryan and Suzanne were outstanding!. Our first day of looking Ryan was able to really understand what we were looking for. This proved to be extremely valuable as we were remote. Many … More times Ryan was able to prescreen a home and tell us to not spend the time driving up and back. Also, many times Ryan would go to a home and do a video walk through for us - this was extremely valuable and helpful! Ryan's attention to detail and total understanding of us was what made this hard process almost easy. Suzanne's attention to detail allowed us to not worry about the details. during the offer and purchase processes. Together Ryan and Suzanne are a great team and an extreme pleasure to work with.
