By Fred Altvater
On a recent visit to Sky Valley, in the mountains on Northeastern Georgia, we found a friendly village of people totally committed to their fellow residents and visitors to this paradise in the sky.
Being among such an outwardly accommodating community, I was reminded of my mother’s favorite musical, Brigadoon. Two young men on a hunting trip encountered a Scottish community that was only on earth for a one day every 100 years. It was a magical village where everyone was happy, cared for each other and lived in harmony. The sort of things that only happen movies and fiction. That, however, describes Sky Valley. We have never been treated to such wonderful hospitality and inclusion into a community. 
“Sky Valley, one of the stops on the Georgia Golf Trail, is like heaven on earth and we in Georgia are lucky to have such an outstanding destination for golfers in our state and for those visiting from the nearby surrounding states,” said Doug Hollandsworth, founder of the Georgia Golf Trail.
Sky Valley sits 3,500 above sea level in the Georgia mountains and is surrounded by the Nanthala National Forest. The views of the surrounding mountain tops and hillsides are jaw-dropping. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise with hiking, biking, fishing, boating, camping, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, bird watching and zip lining. In addition to golf, one of the more popular recreational sports for Sky Valley members is Croquet.
Back 9 Report chatted with the President of Sky Valley Howard Beckert about the club, the golf course and the many activities for visitors to Sky Valley.
The centerpiece of the Sky Valley community is the country club. The clubhouse, opened in 2013, features a natural stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace, glass window walls, exposed beams, and hardwood floors. The outdoor terrace allows guests to enjoy the jaw-dropping views, while dining in a comfortable, casual setting that creates the perfect end to the day in the mountains.
Sky Valley has a strong reputation for its locally grown produce and is known as the ‘Farm-to-Table Capital’ of Georgia. For connoisseurs, local vineyards produce delicious wines for tasting.
The club has an active social calendar and the chef is constantly creating exciting culinary adventures for their edification.
Being at altitude in the mountains, summertime temperatures are very comfortable. In fact, several residents come north from Florida and other more southern areas to enjoy the cooler climate at Sky Valley.
“Simply put, we have terrific mountain golf opportunities in Georgia,” said Hollandsworth. “If you come for a long weekend, you’ll want to stay for a month.”
At 6,900 yards the course is not long by modern-day standards, but with the elevation changes, a few well-placed water hazards and wonderfully designed green complexes it provides a challenge for any skill level of golfer.
The practice facilities, including a driving range, with target greens, plus the putting and chipping greens, are first class.
Steve Heher, Head Professional at Sky Valley told us the course provides many memorable moments.
“Sky Valley is a fantastic mountain golf course that winds its way through the valley. It features great views from the elevated tees at the 2nd, 8th, 12th, 15th, and 17th holes. Our signature hole, the par-3 15th, has a 60-foot elevation drop from tee to green.”
According to Heher the course is always immaculate and features bent grass from tee to green.
“Our superintendent Steve Mason has been here since 2007. He does a great job to keep this course in great shape throughout the year. He and his veteran crew know what they are doing.”
Sky Valley is a true country club owned and operated by the membership, but it also offers public play with stay & play packages available. Numerous cabins and
cottages along the hillsides surrounding the course offer Airbnb and VRBO rental options, plus the nearby Gateway Inn & Suites, plus the Highlands Inn Lodge also offer golf packages.
We found the people, the golf, as well as, the surroundings at Sky Valley to be first-class. There is always something to visit, a new trail to explore, or another birdie to hunt.
Unlike Brigadoon, however, Sky Valley can be enjoyed every day of the year and if you should find you would like a little slice of mountain life for yourself, there are lots available to build your own heaven among the clouds.
We felt so at home there that we can’t wait until our next visit to this small community of wonderful people and great golf.
To find out more visit: https://www.skyvalleycountryclub.com/.
