Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by Eric
In the words of the luminary Mark Twain (or was it the luminary Jack Benny?): “Age is strictly a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
Whoever it was who originally came up with the quote, allow me to introduce the epitome of aging gracefully: the communities of Lake Keowee—the crown jewel of The Palmetto State.
First, let’s talk about exactly where Lake Keowee is situated in South Carolina’s crown. Spread over a whopping 18,000 acres of glittering water surface, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The area forms part of the Golden Corner, a fitting name given due to its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and high quality of life.
Lake Keowee is not just another lake in Upstate SC; it’s a community that sings a siren song to those looking to live their retirement years in serene beauty and luxury. (Spiced with a dash of excitement, of course!)
Each Lake Keowee community is unique, each packed with its distinct flavor of charm and allure. The communities here—they’re like secret clubs where the initiation fee is simply a love for life and nature. Okay, maybe there are other fees as well. Yes, I’ll also reveal the oh-so-important fact that no one seems to mention: the cost of living.
Lake Keowee: A Haven for Luxurious Retirement
This South Carolina lake, with its breathtaking 18,000 acres of water surface area, is not just a vacation destination. It’s an invitation to a serene and adventurous lifestyle, perfect for retirees seeking to blend relaxation with an active lifestyle.
Lake Keowee retirement communities stand apart with their different offerings. Let’s explore three of the most popular ones:
- The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards: This luxury community offers upscale amenities and stunning homes for sale overlooking the lake, complete with private docks. It has an award-winning golf course, an equestrian center, and even a full-service marina.
- Keowee Key: Ideal for retirees with a more moderate budget, Keowee Key boasts a relaxed environment. It features an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a fitness center, and a walking trail around the lake.
- The Reserve at Lake Keowee: The Reserve is a community known for its grand and picturesque homes, championship golf course, and a marina with a village-style market.
Cost of Living: An Investment in Unparalleled Lifestyle
The cost of living at Lake Keowee is a spectrum, catering to varied financial profiles. Affordable options begin in the mid $200,000s, however, if you’re looking for high-end luxury, the opulent homes in The Cliffs or The Reserve can go well into millions. It’s all about finding a lifestyle that fits your budget and preference.
An Active Lifestyle Meets Lake-Side Leisure
Embrace the lively atmosphere at Lake Keowee! Whether you enjoy hiking through nature trails, fishing on tranquil waters, or golfing with friends, these communities cater to an array of homebuyer interests. And if pickleball is your game, rejoice—as this sport is catching on rapidly among our retirees.
And what if city life occasionally calls? Don’t worry! You’re just a short drive away from metropolitan hubs for shopping, dining, and cultural events. But trust me, the joy and camaraderie at Lake Keowee can be hard to leave!
Health and Wellness
Lake Keowee retirement communities prioritize the health and well-being of their residents. You’ll find well-equipped fitness centers and various classes from yoga to aerobics. For your healthcare needs, rest assured that top-notch medical facilities are within a short drive.
Engaging Social Life: Building Bonds and Making Memories
Looking at homes for sale and moving to a new location can feel stressful no matter where it is. However, the social life at Lake Keowee ensures that you’ll never feel alone. Between the weekend parties, holiday celebrations, and a myriad of activities, companionship is never a worry. Want to relax? Find your peace at the serene lakeside or inside your cozy home.
Your Dream Home Amidst Nature’s Splendor
Living at Lake Keowee means you can choose a home that matches your style and comfort. Want a lake view or prefer a private pool? How about a home with fireplaces, decks, patios, or a full kitchen? Each property here has unique features, ensuring you find your perfect fit.
Spectacular Views and Amenities: The Lake Keowee Lifestyle
Life at Lake Keowee means waking up to magnificent views of the lake and the nearby Blueridge Mountains. And when you’re not soaking in the scenery, take advantage of the numerous amenities – swimming pools, spas, gyms, walking trails, and gardens, to name a few.
Lavish Living Spaces
Welcome to your new home, where private meets inclusive. The architectural brilliance of the Lake Keowee retirement communities allows you to choose from a range of housing styles.
Want to live lakeside year-round? You got it! Or perhaps you’re more of a snowbird, seeking a lakehouse to nest in for part of the year. Either way, these homes offer unique features ranging from unobstructed lake views to private pools and spas. Imagine sipping your morning coffee by a cozy fireplace, or entertaining friends on a spacious deck – that’s everyday life here.
But don’t just take my word for it; let’s talk numbers. The price tag for this idyllic lifestyle? Well, the cost varies depending on factors such as property size and amenities, but again, you can expect to budget somewhere between $200,000 to $1 million and up for a property here.
Yes, it’s steep compared to many other real estate markets, but there are very good reasons for that. Remember, as with all real estate, it’s about location, location, location. And these luxurious communities are placed smack dab in the heart of nature’s masterpiece.
Active, Engaging Lifestyle
Lake Keowee retirement communities exude an energy that’s infectious. Here you can immerse yourself in a flurry of activities like swimming, hiking, golfing, and fishing, just to name a few. And no, you don’t have to be a grandmaster at these—the goal here is to have fun, not win an Olympic medal!
Consider communities like The Cliffs and The Reserve. Not only do they boast magnificent golf courses, but they also offer a cocktail of activities ranging from tennis to the ever-popular pickleball (trust me, it’s a hoot!). Even the most die-hard urbanite will find solace with nearby city centers offering retail therapy, fine dining, and a host of cultural events.
Health and Wellness Facilities
Now, let’s not forget one crucial aspect of retirement living—maintaining our health! The communities around Lake Keowee are a retiree’s gym haven. There are well-equipped fitness centers with swimming pools and tennis courts.
Want to break a sweat with yoga or aerobics? You got it! Remember, fitness in retirement isn’t just about adding years to your life; it’s about adding life to your years.
Bustling Social Life
Transitioning to retirement can be rocky, but fear not! You’re walking into an area where everyone’s a friend you haven’t met yet. The communities here hum with social energy, hosting weekend parties, holiday celebrations, and various events. Introvert or extrovert, there’s something for everyone
A Welcoming Community
Retirement communities around Lake Keowee are not just about homes and activities; they’re about the people who inhabit them. Each community is full of active, inspiring, and welcoming retirees who quickly turn from neighbors into lifelong friends.
There are countless clubs and social groups that meet regularly, catering to various interests such as art, music, gardening, book clubs, and more. You’re not just buying a home; you’re buying into a network of friendships, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.
Location, Location, Location!
Flanked by Oconee and Pickens counties, this area is rich in Southern charm and hospitality. It’s conveniently located, too, with easy access to various nearby towns and cities. The bustling town of Seneca is at the southern end of the lake, providing you with urban amenities while still maintaining a tranquil small-town atmosphere. Clemson, home to the prestigious Clemson University, is just a stone’s throw away—making Lake Keowee an especially great place to retire if you have a grandchild attending college here.
On the larger scale, Lake Keowee is approximately 45 minutes away from Greenville, South Carolina’s fastest-growing city. Here, you’ll find a myriad of shopping, dining, and cultural opportunities. For those who crave occasional city life or need to catch a flight, this proximity to Greenville is an invaluable convenience.
Beyond the borders of South Carolina, the city of Atlanta, Georgia, is only a two-hour drive away, and Charlotte, North Carolina, is just two and a half hours to the north. These major metropolitan hubs offer a wealth of experiences, from international airports to top-notch medical facilities, vibrant arts scenes, professional sports, and much more.
So, to sum it up, Lake Keowee, with its prime location, acts as a peaceful refuge, allowing retirees to enjoy the tranquility of lake living while still being within a comfortable distance of all the amenities offered by larger cities.
Proximity to Services
Essential services are never far away. Shopping, healthcare services, banking, and other everyday necessities are within a reasonable distance from these communities. Again, larger cities like Greenville and Asheville are within driving distance if you feel the need for a metropolitan experience or require specialized medical care.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, Lake Keowee is a haven for retirees. It’s not just about the homes and the landscape—although they are a considerable part of the charm—it’s about a lifestyle—a lifestyle that’s active, engaging, healthy, and social.
While the cost of living on Lake Keowee might be higher than the national average, the quality of life, the sense of community, and the sheer beauty of the surroundings make it a worthwhile investment for many.
Remember, retirement is not about fading into the sunset; it’s about diving into a new dawn of opportunities and experiences. Lake Keowee is a place where you can do just that—it’s a place where age is just a number, and life is a celebration.
