Live Amongst Nature’s Beauty

Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: June 2024

Construction is underway at the Village at Longcliff, the new 107-acre mixed-use real estate development on SR 64 in Lake Toxaway. This carefully planned community was inspired by a local area study commissioned by the Historic Toxaway Foundation in 2018.

Residents of the Toxaway and Sapphire communities expressed interest in a town center and village green where the community could gather to celebrate, listen to music, shop, and have better access to activities and services closer to the southwestern part of Transylvania County.

There will be a much-needed town center fronting SR 64 which will be a welcoming place for residents from the local community and visitors to enjoy all that the Longcliff community has to offer. “Our area has long needed a place where family and friends can come together to create those indelible memories we all crave,” said Ryan Stahl, one of Longcliff’s partners. “Longcliff is the perfect setting and location for providing that missing link along The Plateau.”

Careful consideration has been given to preserving the natural beauty of this unique property which is surrounded by Gorges State Park along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. The hardwood forests, rock formations, waterfalls, and rolling terrain on this property are among the most beautiful in our area, and every consideration has been given to honor their beauty and preserve the area’s heritage. Careful planning and thoughtful design will ensure minimal intrusion on the area’s natural beauty.

Central to their commitment to preserving the natural environment is the 44-acre Nature Preserve which will set the tone for the entire community. This conservation easement runs through the middle of the property separating the commercial and residential properties and will feature almost three miles of walking trails. The North American Land Trust, a nationally recognized conservation organization with the primary purpose of preserving and managing open space with ecological, agricultural, or historical significance, is the conservation holder for the Longcliff Nature Preserve, thereby ensuring the permanent protection of this preserve. “The conservation easement is the heartbeat of Longcliff. It is a place that is attractive to all that enjoy the outdoors and will add to the sense of community that already exists in upper Transylvania County,” says David Parks, one of the partners of Longcliff.

The initial phase of construction will be the Retail Market and Longcliff’s Sales Center on SR 64. Construction of single-family residences will begin in August of this year, followed by the further development of the Town Center which ultimately will entail retail shops, restaurants and condominiums. A luxurious mountain lodge and spa overlooking the escarpment, which will complement the Inn located in the Town Center, will round out the real estate offerings. Watch for more details coming soon about the Lodge and the Inn.

Longcliff will be hosting a Groundbreaking Celebration in conjunction with both the Cashiers and Brevard Chambers of Commerce on June 11 on the property so the local communities can learn more about this project and see the property firsthand. They are excited to share their vision with everyone.