Luxury lakeside living in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Smith Mountain Lake carves out the many coves of Union Hall, a tranquil waterside community stretched out across the lake’s southern banks in southwest Virginia. Winding, spindly roads create a network of sparse residential arteries, like veins in a leaf, branching out to the grand mountain retreats that pepper the shoreline. A luxury lakeside lifestyle draws residents to Union Hall, which comprises a collection of communities — some gated, others not — that offer shared amenities and contemporary lodge-style homes, most with sweeping views and private access to the lake. “Compared to other areas along the lake, Union Hall has more to do,” says local Realtor Adam Lynch with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Smith Mountain Lake, noting attractions like marinas and local eateries. “There are more restaurants and more areas to hang out at.” The Amphitheater at The Coves hosts outdoor concerts, and establishments such as the members-only Pelican Point Yacht Club and The Coves Club provide exclusive amenities and experiences. Still, both seasonal and perennial Union Hall residents enjoy abundant access to year-round recreation and maintain a relaxed retreat-like atmosphere in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Grand contemporary retreats along the water
Luxury residences dot Union Hall’s irregular coastline, many with private docks and lake access. Though a handful of established homes date back to the late 70s and early 80s, most properties were built in the last few decades and reflect more contemporary, lodge-style architecture. Ranch and farmhouse influences are prevalent, while new builds lean heavily on the natural mountain setting for inspiration. These often have rustic features, such as wood and stone siding, prominent timbering and large windows for lakeside vistas. These stately retreat homes typically list between $800,000 and $3.2 million, depending on property size. In the gated community The Coves at Smith Mountain Lake, completed homes and custom builds are available, though architectural review and preferred builders are sometimes required. Smaller homes and cabins, typically located more inland, can cost between $390,000 and $700,000. Parcels of land are also available for purchase, allowing for new construction opportunities.
Recreation at Smith Mountain Lake and access to private amenities
Recreation on and along Smith Mountain Lake remains a massive draw to residents of Union Hall, offering a place for swimming, fishing, a variety of watersports and more. While most homes have private docks, residents can launch their boats at Magnum Point Marina or the public boat ramp in neighboring Penhook. Residents of The Cove enjoy access to homeowner amenities such as a five-mile private trail system, watersports docks and community boat slips, a 9-hole disc golf course and lakeside pavilions for social gatherings. The Coves CLUB offers exclusive benefits and unlocks additional amenities, including events, home services and experiences. Membership is by invitation only and open to residents and non-residents. Nestled along 18 acres with half a mile of waterfront in Union Hall, Pelican Point Yacht Club is another members-only establishment that offers a marina, deep-water slips, boat ramps and additional amenities such as a swimming pool, bath house and tennis courts.
Open to both residents and non-residents, the Amphitheater at The Coves is a premier outdoor venue along the lake that hosts various concerts. The ticketed events have included names such as Gregory Alan Isakov, Trampled By Turtles and more. Club members have access to luxury sky boxes for a bird’s-eye view of performances.
Strong academics in Franklin County Public Schools
Franklin County Public Schools serves Union Hall and is rated the third-best school district in the Roanoke area. The school district attributes much of its strong ratings to its 10-to-1 average student-teacher ratio. Kids may begin their education at Glade Hill Elementary School, which serves prekindergarten through fifth grade, before advancing to Benjamin Franklin Middle School and Franklin County High School. All three schools earn a B-plus grade from Niche. Home of the Eagles, Franklin County High School offers a wide range of girls and boys sports teams. The school is also known for its strong Career and Technical Education program and is slated to start construction on a new CTE building in the coming years.
Vibrant local eateries, shopping in nearby Rocky Mount
A few establishments within Union Hall give the community additional personality. Lynch says Magnum Point Marina and Restaurant has become a stalwart for its vibrant scene, busy boat docks and great food. Jose’s Mexican Grill and Cantina is another dining spot within the community and serves beloved Mexican dishes such as quesadillas and chimichangas. Old Franklin Turnpike anchors the southern bend of Union Hall and houses additional pit stops like Whistle Stop convenience store and Dollar General. For grocery shopping and additional dining, residents head towards Rocky Mount, about 16 miles away. Grocery options here include Kroger and Food Lion, while larger big-box retailers like Walmart fulfill other necessities.
Main routes to Mount Rocky and Roanoke
Old Franklin Turnpike is the main thoroughfare that cuts through Union Hall, connecting residents to Rocky Mount and neighboring communities. Route 220 takes locals to Roanoke, about 33 miles away. The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is the closest, about 35 miles away.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
