Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Kenmure Country Club in Flat Rock stands out as one of the region’s most distinguished private club and residential communities. This exclusive 1,400-acre gated community blends championship golf with luxury mountain living, offering members access to an 18-hole course designed by Joe Lee, plus a range of recreational and dining options.
The club is both a premier golf destination and an upscale residential community. Members get year-round access to tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness facilities, and several dining venues.
Founded in 1984, Kenmure has become a cornerstone of Flat Rock’s social and recreational scene. From its challenging golf course that draws players of all skill levels to its elegant event spaces and wide range of housing, Kenmure offers a full lifestyle experience in Western North Carolina’s mountain region.
The community’s blend of natural beauty, amenities, and social opportunities creates an environment where residents can enjoy both active pursuits and laid-back mountain living. There’s a certain appeal to having all of that right outside your door.
Overview of Kenmure Country Club
Kenmure Country Club sits in the heart of Flat Rock, North Carolina. It features a historic antebellum mansion as its centerpiece and offers top-notch amenities amid the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The club’s roots stretch back to 1984, when it was founded as a premier golf destination in western North Carolina. That sense of tradition is still felt today.
Location in Flat Rock and Surrounding Areas
Kenmure Country Club is located in historic Flat Rock, North Carolina, nestled within the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s about a half-hour from Asheville and just minutes from Hendersonville.
Flat Rock has a reputation as a summer retreat—people have long been drawn here for the cooler mountain air and those sweeping views. The area’s natural beauty is hard to overstate.
The club’s location means easy access to the cultural attractions of Asheville and Hendersonville. So, you get the perks of mountain living without feeling cut off from the world.
Rolling hills and lush forests surround the property. The Blue Ridge backdrop is just part of daily life here.
History and Heritage of Kenmure
Kenmure Country Club was founded in 1984 as a haven for golf enthusiasts. The idea was to create a club that fit right into the tranquil mountain landscape.
Renowned architect Joe Lee designed the championship golf course, which opened in 1983. The course has 6,509 yards of golf from the longest tees.
The club has earned recognition as one of the top golf destinations in the region. Golfweek named it among the Top 50 development courses in the Southeastern United States.
Since its founding, Kenmure has maintained a reputation for excellence. The club keeps drawing golf lovers from all over.
The Antebellum Mansion Clubhouse
The heart of Kenmure Country Club is its historic antebellum mansion, now the main clubhouse. This elegant building really captures the charm and sophistication of the Old South.
The mansion provides a stunning backdrop for club activities and events. Its classic architecture fits right in with the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Inside, you’ll find several dining venues. Members can pick between casual and fine dining, all in a historic setting.
The mansion also houses club amenities and meeting spaces. Private dining rooms are available for special events and gatherings—pretty handy if you like to entertain.
Golf Course and Facilities
Kenmure Country Club boasts a world-class golf course designed by Joe Lee, plus professional instruction and amazing mountain views. The 18-hole championship course offers challenging play with top-notch facilities for all skill levels.
Joe Lee-Designed 18-Hole Championship Course
The golf course at Kenmure was designed by Joe Lee, who opened the course in 1982. He crafted a layout that highlights natural beauty and provides fair challenges for players.
The 6,509-yard bent-grass course plays to a par of 72. Each hole brings something different, without any sneaky hazards—making it accessible for all kinds of golfers.
Key Course Features:
18 championship holes
Bent grass playing surfaces
Strategic bunker placement
Water hazards on 14 holes
Fast, well-maintained greens
The course layout makes the most of the natural terrain. Players get varied elevation changes and some pretty spectacular views along the way.
Player Experience and Course Ratings
The course carries a PGA rating of 71.1 and a slope rating of 140. Those numbers suggest a challenging but fair test for most players.
Golfers often rate the course conditions as excellent. The maintenance crew keeps those bent grass surfaces in great shape all year.
Course Statistics:
Length: 6,509 yards
Par: 72
Course Rating: 71.1
Slope Rating: 140
Grass Type: Bent grass
The small, quick greens demand precise approach shots. Water comes into play on most holes, so there’s plenty to think about with every swing.
Professional Instruction and Golf Shop
The golf facilities include full instruction and retail services. Two Class-A PGA Professionals run the Golf Shop at Kenmure, offering expert guidance and equipment services.
Professional Staff:
Stephen Thomasson, PGA Head Golf Professional
Sam Thomas, Assistant Golf Professional
Jamie Lister, Golf Shop Manager
The Golf Shop has custom club fittings and demo equipment. Members can pick up the latest golf apparel and accessories for both men and women.
Instruction covers individual lessons and group clinics. They even added Toptracer technology in 2024, making practice sessions a bit more high-tech and fun.
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Scenic Blue Ridge Mountain Setting
Kenmure’s golf course sits right in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains in Flat Rock. The mountain setting gives you dramatic backdrops on a bunch of holes.
The course offers four-season golf opportunities. Thanks to the elevation, summer rounds are a lot more comfortable here than down in the valleys.
Scenic Highlights:
Panoramic mountain vistas
Native mountain vegetation
Elevation changes throughout the course
Peaceful, secluded setting
The natural landscape is a big part of Joe Lee’s design philosophy. The course works with the topography, so each hole feels like it truly belongs in the mountains.
Residential Living and Real Estate Options
Kenmure offers a wide range of housing options across 1,400 acres in Flat Rock. Properties run the gamut from affordable condos to luxury single-family homes.
The gated community provides privacy and security, but you’re still close to Hendersonville and all the attractions of western North Carolina. Not a bad mix if you ask me.
Home Types and Properties Available
Kenmure real estate listings include several housing styles to fit different budgets and tastes. Buyers can choose from condos, townhomes, and single-family homes.
The community has both new construction and resale properties. Available homes range from affordable condos and townhomes to upscale single-family residences.
Ready-to-build lots are available for custom homes. All sites have underground utilities—electricity, natural gas, city water, telephone, and cable service are already set up.
The median listing price is $582,500 right now. Options appeal to year-round residents, seasonal homeowners, and retirees who want that mountain lifestyle.
Community Architecture and Landscaping
Kenmure features unique architecture that fits the Blue Ridge Mountain setting. The development keeps architectural standards that protect the area’s historic character.
The clubhouse is a restored antebellum mansion, which really sets the tone. It’s a nod to the area’s southern heritage and gives the community an elegant focal point.
Landscaping highlights the natural mountain environment. The 1,400-acre development keeps existing trees and natural features, with manicured areas around homes and common spaces.
Building guidelines make sure homes blend in with the mountain landscape. Exterior materials and colors are chosen to harmonize with the forest and mountain views.
Gated Security and Privacy
Kenmure is a private gated community with controlled access. Security gates limit entry to residents, guests, and approved personnel.
The gated setup gives peace of mind to both full-time and part-time residents. It’s especially appealing for retirees and seasonal homeowners who travel a lot.
Privacy is built in thanks to the community’s size and wooded setting. Large lots and mature trees keep homes separated while maintaining that mountain feel.
The location, four miles south of Hendersonville, offers seclusion but not total isolation. Residents get quiet mountain living and still have easy access to services and entertainment.
Rental and Investment Opportunities
Short- and long-term rentals are an option within the community guidelines. Property owners can bring in rental income from their Kenmure homes.
The community allows seasonal rentals for visitors who want to try out mountain living. This creates income potential for investment property owners.
Flat Rock’s proximity to Asheville and other western North Carolina attractions makes rental properties attractive to vacationers. The area draws visitors year-round for outdoor activities and cultural events.
Investment opportunities include buying existing homes or building on available lots. The community’s reputation and amenities help support property values locally.
Amenities Beyond Golf
While Kenmure Country Club is known for its golf, the club also offers recreational facilities for a variety of interests. Members get access to multiple court sports, year-round swimming options, and a full range of fitness amenities.
Tennis, Pickleball, and Bocce Courts
Kenmure features six tennis courts that welcome both casual and competitive play year-round. The surface stays in great shape, whether you're out for a morning rally or a more serious tournament.
The club recently added dedicated pickleball courts. This sport's booming—it's not just for one age group, either.
The pickleball courts have the right dimensions and net heights, so you get a real game every time. It's honestly a great way to meet people, too.
Bocce ball courts bring a fun, social vibe to Kenmure's lineup. These courts are perfect for laid-back matches or the occasional tournament.
You'll often find members gathering for spontaneous games or a little friendly competition. Bocce's definitely a crowd-pleaser here.
All the courts are kept in good shape with regular maintenance. They're set up in spots that make the most of those signature mountain views—it's hard not to pause and take it in.
Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools
The indoor saline pool stays open all year, so swimming isn't just a summer thing. Saline's a bit kinder on the skin than chlorine, which I think most people appreciate.
The outdoor heated pool stretches the season well into those chillier months. There are plenty of seats, and you can't beat the mountain backdrop.
People come here to swim laps, join water fitness classes, or just relax. The pools have changing rooms and showers, so it's pretty convenient.
Water temperature stays consistent for both exercise and recreation. Lifeguards are on duty during busy times, which adds some peace of mind.
Both pools use up-to-date filtration and safety gear. It's clear they take member safety and comfort seriously.
Fitness Center and Wellness Programs
The fitness center is loaded with new cardio and strength equipment. You'll find treadmills, ellipticals, and plenty of weight stations.
Personal training is on offer for anyone wanting a more tailored approach. Trainers help set up custom workout plans, which can be a real game-changer.
Group fitness classes run all week. Options range from yoga to aerobics and strength training, so there's something for most tastes.
Schedules are flexible, which is nice if you have a packed calendar. Wellness programs go beyond just workouts, too.
The club hosts workshops on nutrition and healthy living. Members can get wellness assessments and occasional health screenings—it feels pretty holistic.
Dining and Social Life
Kenmure Country Club has several dining spots and an active social calendar that keeps things lively. You’ll find both casual and fine dining, plus wine events and plenty of member gatherings throughout the year.
The Grill Restaurant Experience
The Grill Room is the go-to for casual meals, with seasonal menus and weekly specials that won't break the bank. Comfort food and healthier options are both on the menu, all served up in a laid-back setting.
The kitchen puts a real focus on quality—fresh, local ingredients, and a good variety. You'll see southeastern favorites, some global dishes, and the classics you never get tired of.
Looking for something fancier? The Sears Dining Room does quarterly wine dinners and prix fixe nights. Members can also host private events or grab a spot at special club house celebrations during holidays.
When it's warm, the Patio opens up for outdoor lunches and dinners. The wine list changes with the seasons, and they put some real thought into the pairings.
Events, Clubs, and Social Activities
Kenmure's Wine Club puts on tastings and educational events year-round. It's a fun way to try new wines and meet other members who are into the same thing.
Local wineries often come by for exclusive tastings, which is a nice perk. You get to sample regional wines without leaving the club.
There are also themed dining nights and seasonal menu celebrations, sometimes in the formal dining room, other times out on the patio. The variety keeps things interesting.
Members can book private events too, so birthdays and anniversaries feel a bit more special.
Lifestyle and Community Environment
Kenmure Country Club offers a mountain lifestyle with those stunning Blue Ridge views. It's a gated community, so you get a strong sense of neighborliness, but it's also easy to get to Hendersonville or Asheville.
Scenic Beauty and Mountain Vistas
From its elevated perch, the community gets sweeping Blue Ridge views. Every season brings something new to look at—spring blooms, fall colors, you name it.
The whole 1,400-acre development feels like a park, with rolling hills and old trees. There's a lot of natural beauty everywhere you turn.
Flat Rock has all four seasons, but nothing too extreme. Spring and fall are especially pretty, if you ask me.
The landscaping keeps the mountain vibe intact, thanks to a team that knows how to balance the built and natural environments. Even the weather cooperates—summers stay mild, and winters are gentle enough for outdoor fun.
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Sense of Community and Neighbor Connections
The social life here really revolves around the old antebellum mansion clubhouse. There are a bunch of clubs, so it's easy to find your crowd.
Popular community activities include:
Wine tastings
Themed dinner events
Holiday celebrations
Book clubs
Garden clubs
Members often form lasting friendships through shared events. The community's close-knit feel makes it easy for newcomers to settle in.
There's always something happening—seasonal parties, group outings, you name it. It's not hard to meet people here.
The gated setup encourages walking and spontaneous chats. You'll bump into neighbors on the trails or just out and about in the common areas.
Accessibility to Hendersonville and Asheville
Kenmure sits just four miles south of Hendersonville. It's a quick drive, and suddenly you're at shopping, dining, or medical appointments.
Downtown Hendersonville offers local restaurants and shops. The historic Main Street's got that small-town vibe—charming but with all the basics you'd want close by.
Asheville lies about 30 minutes away by car. It's the bigger city, so you'll find more cultural spots, an airport, and a wider range of places to eat.
Getting to either city isn't much hassle, even in winter. Those mountain roads between Flat Rock and the towns? They're surprisingly well-kept.
Medical facilities in Hendersonville take care of most needs. For anything more specialized, Asheville's hospitals and services fill in the gaps.
