Active adults flock to Achasta, Dahlonega's elite community

Home and Garden

Active adults flock to Achasta, Dahlonega's elite community

Active adults flock to Achasta, an elite community in Dahlonega with upscale homes and a 6,995-yard, par-72, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

The lower level also has a wine cellar to store the couple's extensive collection of vino.

Over the winter, Linger Longer upgraded the bunkers, added three fountains and planted more than 500 new trees to enhance the course.

The exterior of one of homes in Achasta. Dahlonega Mayor Gary McCullough said accessibility has been a big factor in the planned construction of another 500 units of housing for adults 55 and older in Dahlonega. The mayor calls the growing numbers of retirees "kind of a boon for the city."

The lower level of their home has a wet bar, a game room, a rec room and a great view.

From the wrap-around deck of their home, the Smiths can see portions of the 10th, 11th and 18th holes as well as the Chestatee River, which flows through the development. "Our views from up here are just spectacular," said Debbie Smith.

Debbie and Jerry Smith were among Birch River's first buyers in 2002. They moved to the community from Lilburn after selling their computer business. They love the improvements made by Linger Longer.

The Smiths like the easy access to Atlanta from the top end of Ga. 400, which is just a mile away. Shopping, dining and Hartsfield Jackson International Airport are accessible in an hour or less depending on traffic.

The couple's dining room.

In January 2007, Linger Longer Communities, the developer of Georgia's Reynolds Plantation, bought Dahlonega's elite gated community, Birch River. The company changed the name to Achasta, a name derived from the Cherokee word for light.

The Smith's home theater.

The living room in the Smiths' 7,000-square-foot, three-bedroom home.

The 6,995-yard, par-72 Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course is a big draw for residents.

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The lower level also has a wine cellar to store the couple's extensive collection of vino.

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