Few people could possibly envision that this area of small towns
right smack in the middle of rural, eastern Georgia would be home to four major golf communities as well as a spectacular
Ritz Carlton resort. Drive about one hour east of Atlanta, along I-20, and you will find Greensboro, a small farming community
of 3,300 people, located just a few miles from Lake Oconee, a beautiful water playground with miles of shoreline and a perfect
spot for boating, swimming, fishing and almost any other water sports that one could envision.
However, the big attraction, especially for many retirees and others wishing to escape the urban congestion and fast
pace associated with living in Atlanta and other big cities, is the surprising development of this region as a major golfing
destination.
Such prestigious planned country club communities
as Reynolds Plantation, Cuscowilla, and others have quickly established Greensboro and the Lake Oconee area as being among
the Southeast's premier retirement choices for anyone searching for a place that combines great golfing and boating.
And these are not your average run-of-the mill subdivision-type courses. Here you
will find challenging, championship caliber courses that have been designed by some of the biggest names in golf course architecture...Bill
Coore and Ben Crenshaw at Cuscowilla and Tom Fazio, Bob Cupp, and Jack Nicklaus at Reynolds Plantation. All of these communities
have been carved out of the rolling Georgia countryside overlooking the 15,000 acre body of water. Situated about mid-way
between Atlanta and Augusta and in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it is an area of long overlooked natural beauty.
In addition to Greensboro, other picturesque small towns like
Madison and Eatonton give the entire region a charming ambiance and relaxed atmosphere that many newcomers find refreshing
and satisfying. Obviously, such a move can be a big adjustment for some, but the pleasant climate, low crime rate and affordable
cost of living are very appealing.
While the availability of
dining and shopping choices is somewhat limited, several new restaurants have recently opened, and each of the nearby towns
has an interesting and varied offering of unique shops and galleries. With Atlanta so accessible, many locals make the drive
for major shopping and medical facilities.
Population: Greensboro
(3,300) Eatonton: (7,000) Madison: (7,000)
Climate:
Avg. Jan. Low (33) Avg. July High (91 ) Rainfall: 48" Snowfall: 1"
Median Home Value: $193,500