Sapphire is a scenic mountain community popular with tourists
Sapphire is a gem of western North Carolina, framed by Panthertown Valley to the north, Gorges State Park to the east and towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains in every direction. "Bottom line, Sapphire is beautiful," says local broker Dan Hodges, team lead of The Hodges Team at Mountain Real Estate Rocks. He's been visiting the greater region since the 1950s and moved here in 1998. "There are pretty little flowers in the forests, in the fields and in the meadows. And you have a lot of water running through it." Its scenic natural setting makes it a popular tourist destination, home to mountain resorts and hotels. "People come in from all over the world."
Sapphire is a neighborhood surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sapphire is home to many mountain resorts and hotels.
1/2
Many local hikes lead to scenic waterfalls
Sapphire's natural amenities, from waterfalls to hiking trails, are arguably its biggest draws. One of its most popular spots is Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, towering at 411 feet. Visitors take the Foothills Trail to reach the falls. Locals hike to White Owl Falls and Rainbow Falls or enjoy swimming at Silver Run Falls. Hodges also highlights Panthertown Valley, known to many as the "Yosemite of the East." It has waterfalls, rock domes, gorges and 30-plus miles of trails. Fairfield Lake is a popular spot for kayaking and fishing, and Lake Glenville and Lake Toxaway are nearby. Sapphire Valley Resort operates the Frozen Falls Tube Park and an adjacent ski slope open to the public. Golfers can enjoy the course at The County Club of Sapphire Valley, a private golf club that's served the community since 1956.
The Whitewater Falls is the largest waterfall near the Sapphire area.
Golfers can enjoy the course at The County Club of Sapphire Valley.
1/2
A varied housing stock in the mountains
Most homes line densely wooded, winding streets that branch off Rosman Highway. The roads are usually narrow and have low posted speed limits, ensuring drivers are careful as they navigate the hillsides. Most homes sit on at least a half-acre of land, and Hodges says most properties offer views of mountains and valleys. "There are also some homes that look out to the lakes and over toward South Carolina," he says. Hodges adds that there isn't a standard for housing styles. "There's every kind of home in Sapphire," he says. "Modern homes, log cabins, colonials and all Artisan-style homes. You name it." Most homes are adorned with expansive decks or dramatic windows so residents can enjoy the views. Homes list from about $260,000 to $6 million; homes surrounded by trees, without much of a view, list below $800,000. From there, the price depends on plot sizes and square footage.
Many larger homes can go for over a million dollars in Sapphire.
Sapphire locals can also choose to live in various condos throughout the county.
1/2
Several local restaurants and shopping in Cashiers
Sapphire has a couple of restaurants that Hodges says have been around for decades. Library Kitchen and Bar occupies the oldest building in the Sapphire Valley, built in the 1860s. After renovation in 1999 and a closing in 2010, the restaurant reopened and continues to serve the community today with a seasonal menu. Micas Restaurant and Pub is another local mainstay with a full bar, steaks and shareables. Locals head about 7 miles into Cashiers for shopping and additional dining options. Residents can grab groceries at Ingles Markets or the family-owned Cashiers Farmers Market. Cashiers has several shops, including the Cashiers Thrift Shop and Highland Hiker.
The Micas Restaurant and Pub is another local mainstay with a full bar, steaks and shareables in Sapphire.
The Cashiers Farmers Market is a family-owned business near Sapphire.
1/2
Hopping on U.S. Route 64
Sapphire is a car-dependent community. U.S. Route 64 runs east and west, connecting the area with Highlands about 17 miles west and Rosman 14 miles east. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital is about 14 miles west of the community. Asheville is 56 miles away, and Asheville Regional Airport is a 40-mile trip. Sapphire has an overall CAP Index crime score of 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Jackson and Transylvania County Public Schools
Sapphire is split between Jackson and Transylvania Counties and is served by two school districts. Jackson County Public Schools scores an overall B on Niche, with Blue Ridge School scoring a B-minus and Blue Ridge Early College receiving a B. BREC allows students to earn an associate's degree or workforce certificate with their high school diploma. Transylvania County Schools has a B-plus on Niche, with T.C. Henderson School of Science and Technology, Rosman Middle and Rosman High all scoring Bs on Niche.
Students living in Sapphire can attend the Blue Ridge School.
Rosman Middle has after school activities for students in Sapphire, NC.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Nestled in the captivating valley between The Divide and The Crest, this unique 67.92 acre property offers a harmonious blend of serenity, adventure, and beauty. Less than half a mile from Panthertown Valley, hidden just off West Christy Trail in Sapphire Valley, this breathtaking estate extends a warm invitation to those seeking both peace and excitement. The heart of the property features a
Situated on a corner lot with a year round flowing stream this .74 acre lot awaits your dream Mountain Getaway. Discover the wonders of Burlingame Subdivision. The Community features private access to the trout waters of the Horse Pasture River. A lovely 18 hole Golf Course and Club House. A picturesque river side dog park awaits your fur babies. The community play ground is top notch. Lot 11 is
Tucked away in the serene embrace between Lonesome Valley and Spring Forest, this exquisite easily accessed new construction five bedroom home designed by award-winning architects Egens-Herzog offers an unparalleled living experience that harmonizes luxury with the tranquility of nature. Occupying a generous 3.47 acre lot, the property’s stunning approach is marked by beautifully landscaped
This 3 bedroom/2 bath Holly Forest home located in Sapphire Valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains of NC is being rented fully furnished so you can move right in and start enjoying this quaint little area. This all one level split floor plan features an open concept and lots of natural light coming through the many windows. The living room has cathedral ceilings and a cozy wood burning fireplace to
Heather GerlachLandmark Realty Group - Cashiers Crossroads
This home is a perfect style, size, and price to make your new year rental experience convenient to town with a spacious layout. This home comes with an attached two car garage, lower level, on a private lot and includes the Sapphire Valley amenities, which include an indoor swimming pool, three outdoor pools, miniature golf, tennis facility with 14 courts, walking track and playground, fitness
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mark Moser,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,375
Median Age
58
Population under 18
15.1%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
39.6%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$71,999
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$117,242
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.5%
College Graduates
52.5%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
17%
% Population in Labor Force
59.2%
Below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
54''
Average Winter Low Temperature
24°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
3''
Area Factors
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
0/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
