As we navigate through life, the place we call home plays a vital role in our overall well-being and lifestyle. It is not just an address, but a refuge where we can express our personalities and live out our dreams. But what if your home could be more than just a dwelling? What if it could be a retreat, a personal sanctuary that celebrates natural beauty and elegant living? Enter the remarkable experience of building a custom home at The Reserve on Lake Keowee.
Nestled amidst the serene landscape of South Carolina’s upcountry, Lake Keowee is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking vistas. A treasure nestled in this natural wonder is The Reserve on Lake Keowee, a private waterfront golf community that offers an unrivaled standard of living. Building a custom home here not only provides the opportunity for personalized, luxurious living but also offers an immersive experience into a lifestyle defined by tranquility, recreation, and community.
In this blog post, we will dive into the exceptional benefits of creating your dream custom home in this idyllic haven. From the allure of lakeside living and outdoor adventures to the impeccable community amenities and architectural freedom, building a custom home at The Reserve on Lake Keowee promises an experience beyond the ordinary. So, sit back, and let us guide you through a journey of discovery, where your dream home awaits amidst the shimmering waters and verdant greens of Lake Keowee.
Custom Homes
The Reserve on Lake Keowee offers a rich blend of diverse architectural styles and designs, thanks to a collection of custom homes curated meticulously over the years. Initially developed in the early 2000s, the community has seen a steady influx of discerning homeowners, each adding their unique touch to the landscape. Builders known for their unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative designs, such as Gabriel Builders and Ridgeline Construction Group, have etched their signatures across the Reserve, creating homes that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also harmoniously aligned with the natural surroundings.
Typically, custom homes in The Reserve on Lake Keowee span from 2,500 to over 6,000 square feet, catering to varying lifestyles and family sizes. They are designed to echo the serene backdrop, with most homes showcasing the beautiful fusion of modern comfort and traditional Southern charm. Single-family homes predominantly make up the residential options, but you’ll also find townhomes that offer a more compact, yet equally enchanting, living experience.
As of today, The Reserve hosts over 700 homes, each representing a unique embodiment of its owner’s vision. While most homes lean towards the Craftsman or European architectural style, there are also many that depict a contemporary, coastal, or cottage aesthetic. The common thread weaving these distinct styles together is their deep-rooted respect for the natural beauty of Lake Keowee. With generous outdoor living spaces, lush landscaping, and sweeping views of the water or the golf course, the homes are designed to celebrate the breathtaking scenery that surrounds them.
Inside these homes, you’ll find luxurious details and high-quality finishes that reflect a dedication to comfort and elegance. Open floor plans, chef-inspired kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and spacious bedrooms are typical characteristics. The expansive windows and outdoor living spaces, such as decks, patios, and screened porches, further enhance the sense of connection with the outdoors, offering panoramic views of the lake, mountains, or the impeccably maintained golf course.
Indeed, every home at The Reserve on Lake Keowee is more than just a dwelling. It is a tribute to individual aspirations, architectural brilliance, and the spectacular beauty of nature. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy lakeside cottage or an expansive golf-course estate, The Reserve is a place where your dream home can come to life in its most exquisite form.
Similar Communities
Within the picturesque confines of Lake Keowee, several neighborhoods stand as worthy contemporaries to The Reserve in terms of price point and design. One such community is The Cliffs at Keowee Springs. Like The Reserve, The Cliffs offers a unique blend of luxury and natural beauty. Homeowners have the freedom to customize their homes according to their preferences, with architectural styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. The average home size is comparable to that of The Reserve, with properties spanning between 2,000 and 6,000 square feet. Besides, the community is an oasis of recreational amenities including a Beach Club, wellness center, and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, offering a lifestyle of comfort, leisure, and wellness.
Keowee Key is another noteworthy community located on Lake Keowee. Known for its resort-like lifestyle, Keowee Key is slightly more affordable compared to The Reserve, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of luxury and value. Its homes, many of which were built in the 1980s and 1990s, exhibit a charming mix of architectural styles, from classic ranch-style homes to larger custom designs. With an 18-hole championship golf course, a full-service country club, tennis courts, and access to Lake Keowee, Keowee Key offers a lifestyle that mirrors the relaxed elegance of The Reserve.
Further west of Lake Keowee, you’ll find Waterford Pointe, a luxury community that offers a blend of seclusion and scenic beauty. Homes here are of similar size to those in The Reserve, and they exhibit a range of architectural styles including Craftsman, Traditional, and European. Waterford Pointe residents enjoy a variety of amenities such as a clubhouse, tennis court, swimming pool, and walking trails, making it a competitor for those who appreciate both luxury living and the embrace of nature.
Lastly, there’s The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, another high-end development akin to The Reserve. It offers a medley of custom homes that harmonize seamlessly with their natural surroundings, much like the homes in The Reserve. Featuring designs that range from rustic mountain retreats to modern waterfront estates, the community provides a similar level of architectural freedom. The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards is also rich in amenities, with an equestrian center, a full-service marina, and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course that is often ranked among the best in South Carolina.
These neighborhoods, each with its unique appeal and character, offer discerning homeowners alternatives to The Reserve on Lake Keowee, showcasing the abundance of luxury and lifestyle opportunities that the Lake Keowee area has to offer.
Lakeside Living
Living on Lake Keowee is about much more than just owning a house; it’s about embracing a lifestyle where nature, comfort, and community coalesce into an experience that is truly exceptional. Picture waking up every day to the tranquil sound of lapping waves, the chirping of birds, and the sight of sun casting its early morning glow on the sparkling lake. This, coupled with the sheer visual spectacle of lush greens and the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, makes everyday life feel like a long, peaceful vacation.
One of the greatest benefits of living on Lake Keowee is the seamless access to a host of outdoor recreational activities. If you’re a water enthusiast, you have over 18,500 acres of pristine lake to explore. Whether it’s an invigorating morning swim, an afternoon of paddleboarding, or a peaceful sunset sail, the lake invites you to indulge in your favorite water-based hobbies. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding trails provide excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, or simply a leisurely stroll to enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery.
The lifestyle at Lake Keowee also includes community engagement and social activities. The various clubs and organizations across the communities around the lake provide residents with a chance to bond over shared interests and hobbies. From golfing societies and book clubs to fitness groups and volunteering opportunities, the sense of community at Lake Keowee is both strong and inclusive. These activities and events provide a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and foster lasting friendships.
Living on Lake Keowee is also about enjoying a sense of tranquility without being disconnected from modern conveniences. The towns of Seneca and Clemson are just a short drive away, offering a range of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. For those seeking higher education or wishing to participate in vibrant collegiate activities, Clemson University is nearby, adding an enriching dimension to the Lake Keowee lifestyle.
Indeed, residing on Lake Keowee presents a unique lifestyle – a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, community, and convenience. Whether you’re seeking a quiet, peaceful abode for retirement, a bustling family home filled with weekend water adventures, or a balanced haven that offers both, life on Lake Keowee has something to offer everyone.
Docks & Marinas
One of the distinct luxuries of living in The Reserve on Lake Keowee is the unfettered access to the stunning Lake Keowee itself. Embracing a lifestyle here means you’re never more than a few minutes away from a refreshing swim, an impromptu fishing session, or a leisurely sunset sail. It’s all about immersing in the pristine beauty of the lake and making the most of the myriad water activities it offers.
At The Reserve, many homes come with private docks, extending the living space right into the water. These docks are more than just a place to moor your boat; they are extensions of the home where you can enjoy a peaceful morning coffee, host a lakeside barbecue, or simply bask in the tranquility of the water. It’s a privilege to have a personal gateway to the lake, a feature that truly amplifies the lakeside living experience.
For those without a private dock, The Reserve offers a full-service marina that caters to all boating needs. The marina, equipped with dry storage, boat ramps, and fueling stations, ensures a seamless and convenient boating experience for all residents. It’s a bustling spot, where you can often see people prepping for a day out on the water or swapping stories of their aquatic adventures.
Additionally, The Reserve’s Village Center features a Market, a Pool Pavilion, and a post office, but most importantly, it offers an access point to the lake. Here, residents can rent various types of boats, including pontoons, canoes, and kayaks, to enjoy a day on the lake without the need for personal ownership.
Further enhancing the community’s lake access are the common areas along the shoreline, thoughtfully designed for the residents. They are perfect for a picnic with family or just lounging on a sunny day. And for those who enjoy a good workout, the calm waters of Lake Keowee offer an excellent venue for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Indeed, The Reserve on Lake Keowee capitalizes on its idyllic lakeside setting to provide residents with unparalleled access to Lake Keowee, promising a lifestyle that is intimately connected with the rhythms and pleasures of lakeside living. Whether you’re an ardent boater, a casual swimmer, or simply someone who loves the serene beauty of the water, life at The Reserve is all about celebrating your unique relationship with the lake.
Fishing & Watersports
For the angling aficionados and water sports enthusiasts, Lake Keowee, near The Reserve, is nothing short of a paradise. Its clean, clear waters are teeming with an array of fish species, and its expansive surface area and calm waters offer a perfect playground for a host of water activities.
Lake Keowee is renowned for its bass fishing. With species like largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass in plentiful supply, it’s a beloved destination for both seasoned and novice anglers. Apart from bass, the lake is also home to crappie, catfish, and bream, offering a diverse fishing experience. If you’re a resident at The Reserve, you could set sail from your private dock or the community marina at sunrise, fishing rod in hand, for a peaceful day of fishing on the lake. Nothing beats the satisfaction of reeling in your own catch after a relaxing day out on the water!
But it’s not just the fishing that draws people to Lake Keowee. The lake is also a popular spot for a variety of water sports. The serene, often glass-like waters of the lake are perfect for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, the thrill of gliding across the water against the backdrop of a stunning natural landscape is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are other popular activities among the residents of The Reserve. These quieter, more meditative sports offer a fantastic way to explore the calm coves and inlets of the lake at your own pace. You can enjoy a leisurely paddle around the lake, soak up the beautiful scenery, and even get a bit of exercise while you’re at it!
For those seeking a more relaxed water experience, swimming and tubing offer delightful alternatives. The clear, clean waters of Lake Keowee are ideal for a refreshing swim, especially during the warm summer months. And there’s perhaps no better way to relax than floating on a tube, with the gentle waves of the lake rocking you into a state of pure tranquility.
Indeed, the fishing and water sports opportunities at Lake Keowee enhance the allure of lakeside living at The Reserve. It’s about embracing the excitement, the adventure, and the serenity that the lake offers, creating an active and engaging lifestyle that’s attuned to the joys of the great outdoors.
Golf & Country Clubs
When it comes to golf and country club options, The Reserve on Lake Keowee truly stands out. One of the community’s prime attractions is its Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Framed by the beauty of Lake Keowee and the Blue Ridge Mountains, this 18-hole, par-72 course offers a challenging and enjoyable game for golfers of all skill levels. Each hole promises a unique playing experience, with a striking balance of natural aesthetic and strategic design. Add in the meticulously maintained fairways and greens, and it’s clear why this course is a favorite among residents and visitors alike.
For golfers seeking variety, there are several other prestigious golf courses in the vicinity of Lake Keowee. The Cliffs at Keowee Springs and The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, for example, both offer award-winning golf courses designed by renowned architects. These courses offer their own unique challenges and scenic beauty, adding to the rich tapestry of golfing options in the area.
But the golfing experience at Lake Keowee is more than just about the game. It’s also about the rich camaraderie and community that come with it. The Reserve’s Golf Clubhouse is a testament to this. Overlooking the 18th green, the clubhouse is a hub of social activity where golfers can unwind after a round, share stories of their game, and simply enjoy each other’s company. With a pro shop, a grill, and an elegant dining room, it offers a cozy, convivial setting that enhances the golfing experience.
Apart from golf, The Reserve and other communities around Lake Keowee offer a myriad of country club amenities. Residents can enjoy access to swimming pools, tennis courts, and fitness centers. There are also dining options that cater to a range of tastes, from casual grill fare to fine dining experiences. Moreover, the social calendars at these clubs are filled with a variety of events and activities, from golf tournaments and tennis leagues to themed dinners and social gatherings. These amenities and events not only enhance the living experience but also foster a strong sense of community among residents.
Whether you’re a passionate golfer, a sports enthusiast, or someone who enjoys socializing and dining, the golf and country club options at Lake Keowee offer a rich, fulfilling lifestyle that goes beyond the typical country club experience. It’s about the joy of the game, the luxury of top-notch facilities, and the warmth of a welcoming community – all set against the enchanting backdrop of Lake Keowee.
Restaurants and Dining
Living at The Reserve on Lake Keowee offers a delightful smorgasbord of dining options, from casual eateries to elegant fine dining. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back lakeside meal or a gourmet dining experience, the area around Lake Keowee delivers a feast for your taste buds.
Starting within The Reserve itself, the Orchard House clubhouse presents a fine dining experience like no other. Its menu showcases fresh, local ingredients in a variety of innovative dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. The clubhouse’s elegant dining room offers a cozy, inviting ambiance, perfect for a quiet dinner or a celebratory meal with friends and family. Plus, the exceptional service and stunning views of the golf course make every meal here a special occasion.
For a more casual dining experience, The Market at the Village Center in The Reserve is a popular choice. Here, you can enjoy a delicious selection of sandwiches, salads, and pastries while overlooking the marina and Lake Keowee. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or a quick snack between your lake adventures.
Venturing outside The Reserve, there are numerous dining options in the nearby towns of Seneca and Clemson. For those who love Italian food, Paesano’s Italian Restaurant in Seneca offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu brimming with authentic Italian dishes. Meanwhile, The Lighthouse Restaurant, located right on Lake Keowee, offers great food with an even better view. Their menu is varied, with fresh seafood, prime steaks, and more. Plus, their outdoor patio is a delightful spot for dining al fresco while watching the sunset over the lake.
For the foodie explorers, Clemson’s lively culinary scene is worth checking out. From the fresh, farm-to-table offerings at The Blue Heron Restaurant and Sushi Bar to the famous Esso Club, a Clemson tradition known for its pub food and lively atmosphere, the town offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to all palates.
In essence, the area around Lake Keowee and The Reserve is a melting pot of dining experiences. From the simple to the sophisticated, there’s a culinary adventure to suit every mood and occasion. It’s all part of the rich, varied lifestyle that makes living at The Reserve on Lake Keowee such a delight.
Shopping and Entertainment
Entertainment and shopping are integral to the lifestyle at The Reserve on Lake Keowee, and the surrounding areas do not disappoint. From charming local boutiques to vibrant cultural events, the region provides a myriad of options for residents to enjoy their free time.
In the nearby town of Seneca, you’ll find a variety of shops, from quaint boutiques to larger retailers. Ram Cat Alley, a historic district in downtown Seneca, offers an appealing mix of antique shops, specialty stores, and art galleries. It’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon, exploring unique finds and soaking in the local charm.
Clemson, another neighboring town, is home to a vibrant shopping scene that caters to a broad range of tastes. Here, you can find everything from trendy clothing boutiques and bookstores to locally owned home decor shops. For Clemson University merchandise and sports gear, the Tiger Sports Shop is a must-visit.
But the entertainment around Lake Keowee extends beyond shopping. Seneca and Clemson both host a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year. Seneca’s Jazz on the Alley is a favorite among locals and visitors, where you can enjoy live music in a vibrant outdoor setting. Clemson, being a university town, hosts a plethora of events ranging from collegiate sports games to theatre productions and art exhibitions.
Clemson’s Littlejohn Coliseum is a hotspot for concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale entertainment, while the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts offers a varied program of music, dance, and theatre performances. For movie buffs, the Astro III Theatre in Clemson offers a selection of the latest releases in a cozy, comfortable setting.
Furthermore, the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains provide their own form of entertainment. The area is rife with hiking trails and scenic overlooks, ideal for those who enjoy spending their leisure time in the great outdoors.
In essence, the entertainment and shopping options near The Reserve on Lake Keowee cater to a diverse set of interests. Whether you prefer to spend your free time shopping, immersing in cultural events, enjoying live music, or exploring nature, there’s always something to do and see in this vibrant, diverse region.
Private and Public Schools
Educational opportunities are a key factor for many when choosing a place to live, and The Reserve on Lake Keowee and its surrounding areas offer an impressive array of both private and public schools.
Starting with public schools, Pickens County School District serves the area and has a reputation for its strong emphasis on academic excellence. The district offers a wide variety of programs including Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment programs, and robust STEM curriculum. Walhalla High School, for instance, is well-known for its commitment to providing a nurturing and challenging educational environment.
In terms of private education, there are several notable schools within a short distance of The Reserve on Lake Keowee. The Montessori School of Anderson, for example, offers a child-centered educational approach from infancy through 12th grade. It emphasizes self-directed learning, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth.
Clemson Montessori School, located in the nearby town of Clemson, offers another excellent private education option for children from toddlers through elementary age. This school adheres to the Montessori method, promoting a love for lifelong learning and developing students’ skills at their own pace in a nurturing environment.
For parents seeking a faith-based education for their children, St. Joseph Catholic School in Anderson offers programs from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, robust arts and athletics programs, and commitment to character development in the Catholic tradition.
Furthermore, proximity to Clemson University provides exceptional opportunities for advanced learning and enrichment. From summer programs for school-aged children to lectures and cultural events open to the public, there are many ways to engage with the vibrant academic and cultural life of the university.
In short, whether you’re seeking a public education, a private school experience, or a faith-based curriculum, you’ll find excellent options near The Reserve on Lake Keowee. The commitment to quality education in the region ensures that every child receives a strong academic foundation while also having opportunities for personal and extracurricular development.
Airport and Transportation
When it comes to accessibility and transportation, living at The Reserve on Lake Keowee ensures convenience and connectivity. Whether it’s catching a flight or using public transportation for local commuting, the region has you covered.
The closest airport to The Reserve on Lake Keowee is GSP), located approximately an hour’s drive away. GSP serves several major airlines and offers daily nonstop flights to major cities across the U.S. This makes both domestic and international travel relatively straightforward for residents of The Reserve.
For private and charter flights, the Oconee County Regional Airport is even closer, just about 30 minutes away from The Reserve. It offers full service for general aviation and corporate aircraft, adding another level of convenience for those who prefer this mode of travel.
When it comes to local public transportation, Clemson Area Transit (CAT) provides free bus service in the Clemson area, including routes to local shopping areas, Clemson University, and other points of interest. This is a fantastic resource for students, seniors, and anyone else looking to navigate the local area without a car.
For longer in-state journeys, the Greyhound bus service operates a station in nearby Anderson, offering intercity bus service. Meanwhile, Amtrak’s Crescent train, running between New York City and New Orleans, stops in Clemson, providing an alternative mode of transport for longer, more leisurely trips.
In essence, The Reserve’s location on Lake Keowee offers a blend of tranquillity and connectivity. The peace of lakeside living and the convenience of being close to transport hubs truly gives you the best of both worlds. Whether you need to catch a flight for a business trip or simply explore the local area using public transit, you’ll find it a smooth and convenient process from The Reserve on Lake Keowee.
Health and Wellness
Health and wellness play a significant role in the lifestyle at The Reserve on Lake Keowee. Residents here have a variety of options to maintain and enhance their well-being, from top-notch medical facilities to various fitness and wellness opportunities.
In terms of healthcare, there are several high-quality medical facilities within a short distance of The Reserve. Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital, located in Seneca, is the closest. This full-service hospital offers comprehensive care including emergency services, surgical services, and a range of specialties. Additionally, AnMed Health Medical Center in Anderson and Greenville Health System, one of the largest healthcare providers in South Carolina, are also within a reasonable drive.
For day-to-day healthcare needs, there are several clinics and primary care physicians in the nearby towns of Seneca and Clemson. There’s also a good selection of specialists, from dentists and optometrists to physical therapists and chiropractors, ensuring that every aspect of your health is well catered for.
Beyond healthcare, wellness opportunities abound in the area around Lake Keowee. The Reserve itself offers a wealth of options to keep residents active and engaged. The Fitness Center, located in the Village, is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise machines, free weights, and space for group exercise classes. For outdoor exercise, there’s a network of walking and hiking trails within The Reserve, as well as tennis courts and swimming pools. And let’s not forget the golf course and the lake – perfect for those who enjoy a game of golf or water activities as part of their fitness regimen.
Beyond The Reserve, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer abundant opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature walks, allowing you to combine physical fitness with the enjoyment of the region’s natural beauty.
Additionally, for those seeking holistic wellness, there are several yoga and meditation studios in the nearby towns offering classes for all levels. There’s also a good selection of spas and wellness centers providing services like massages, facials, and other therapeutic treatments.
In essence, health and wellness are integral to life at The Reserve on Lake Keowee. From top-notch healthcare facilities to abundant wellness opportunities, everything you need to lead a healthy, active, and balanced lifestyle is within easy reach.
Hotels and Lodging
When it comes to welcoming visitors, whether they’re friends, family, or simply exploring the area, there’s a wealth of lodging options near The Reserve on Lake Keowee that offer Southern hospitality and comfort in abundance.
Inside The Reserve itself, guests can enjoy the well-appointed Guest House Suites. These suites provide an excellent lodging option for guests who want to experience life in The Reserve firsthand. Overlooking the lake and the 18th fairway, these accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and scenic views.
For those who prefer the charm of bed and breakfast accommodations, there are several enticing options in the vicinity. A local favorite is The Red Horse Inn in Landrum. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this B&B offers cozy, well-appointed cottages and rooms with panoramic views. Its idyllic setting and personalized service make for a memorable stay.
In nearby Clemson, The Abernathy is a boutique hotel that offers modern comforts right next to the Clemson University campus. Each room is tastefully decorated, and the hotel features a rooftop bar that’s a hit with guests. Its prime location makes it a popular choice during university events and football weekends.
Hotel Tillman, also in Clemson, is another comfortable lodging option. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast. Plus, its location makes it a convenient base for exploring both Clemson and the surrounding areas.
If your guests are interested in exploring further afield, they might consider a stay in Greenville, just an hour away. This city offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Westin Poinsett to charming B&Bs like Pettigru Place Bed & Breakfast.
In essence, there’s a lodging option near The Reserve on Lake Keowee to suit every visitor’s preference and budget. Whether they’re looking for a luxurious suite, a charming B&B, or a convenient hotel, guests can find the perfect place to rest after a day of lake activities, exploring the local area, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends.
