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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Sapphire
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
2
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
1
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Sapphire Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Sapphire, Rosman sell after 122 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Sapphire, Rosman over the last 12 months is $760,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Situated directly on Lake Soquilla in Burlingame, this three-bedroom, three-bathroom home offers the ultimate mountain retreat. The living room showcases soaring cathedral ceilings, exposed beams, and a striking stone fireplace, all framed by tall windows that capture sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The main level features a spacious screened porch, perfect for dining or
Situated directly on Lake Soquilla in Burlingame, this three-bedroom, three-bathroom home offers the ultimate mountain retreat. The living room showcases soaring cathedral ceilings, exposed beams, and a striking stone fireplace, all framed by tall windows that capture sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains.The main level features a spacious screened porch, perfect for dining or
Nestled among the trees in the heart of Sapphire Valley, 233 Narrows Road is a welcoming mountain retreat designed for gathering family and friends. With multiple living spaces, expansive outdoor entertaining areas, and beautiful mountain views, this home offers the flexibility and comfort sought in a full-time residence, vacation home, or investment property. The main level is thoughtfully
This home has several upgrades including new roof, new appliances and new partial home generator. Gold Creek borders one side of property where you can hear the stream below and you do have winter, long distance views. Hugh primary suite on main floor with his and hers walk-in closets and baths. Two additional bedrooms are on the main floor. Gaslog fireplaces in the living room, primary suite and
This property has a nice gentle homesite overlooking incredible and booming Little Hogback Creek in the Divide at Bald Rock at 3600' elevation. Little Hogback falls through the entire length of the property for about 600' creating a really neat setting. This is the combination of Lots H and S on either side of the creek and can be subdivided once. Divide, Bald Rock and Sapphire Valley Amenities.
Experience refined mountain living in this warmly appointed 2-bedroom residence, perfectly situated within Sapphire’s friendly River Chase community. This beautifully renovated townhome showcases an easy open, split floor plan designed for both ease of living and comfort.The renovated gourmet kitchen is a standout feature, offering stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and an
3 Bedroom 3.5 Bathroom 2 Car Garage Townhome in the heart of Sapphire Valley. Completely updated this year, with new hardwood floors, new kitchen, new bathrooms, etc. Hampton Glen are the only townhomes in Sapphire Valley with a garage--a 2 car garage with tons of storage! Walking distance to amenities and restaurants! Nice deck overlooking common area fronting Horsepasture River. 3 Bedrooms and
This 37+ acre mountain estate offers exceptional privacy, versatility, and natural beauty at over 3200’. The Cherokee named the area “Shi yo” meaning friendly place. With game trails, abundant sun, and water, it provided the Cherokee with a summer hunting ground as evidenced with numerous artifacts found on property. With unrestricted zoning and bordered by the Nantahala National Forest these
Discover the perfect harmony of modern elegance and rugged mountain charm at this breathtaking Sapphire Valley retreat. Meticulously crafted with warm Australian Cypress,Iron wood and timeless stonework, this home is designed to exist in perfect conversation with its spectacular natural surroundings. As you step into the main living area, you are immediately greeted by vaulted ceilings and a
Turn-key mountain-view condo offering low-maintenance living in the heart of Burlingame. This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence features an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light throughout.Recent updates include new cabinetry, countertops, appliances, vanities, lighting, flooring, and tile, creating a stylish modern feel from top to bottom. The main
Incredible mountain view lot with good building site atop prestigious Eagle Ridge in Sapphire Valley. Huge westerly mountain views including Chimneytop, Rock and other big mountains of the Cowee Ridge. Undergound utilities, including Fiber Optics, Public Water and Public Sewer with easy paved access right to the property. 3800' elevation surrounded by fine homes. One of the last big view lots
Welcome to your mountain retreat in the heart of Sapphire Valley. Tucked away in the peaceful Hilltop Condo Association, this extended end-unit offers 2-bedrooms and 2.5-baths, a wood burning fireplace, updated kitchen and so much more. A perfect blend comfort and restful escape. Take advantage of all of the HOA updates done to this building including new roof 2026, updated and just freshly
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
