Actor Burt Reynolds’s Former Blue Ridge Mountains Retreat in North Carolina Listed

1210 King Gap Road, Highlands, NC 28741

$3,699,000 | 1972 | 4 Beds | 6 Baths | 0.90 Acres

This extraordinary home is a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history in Highlands, North Carolina. Listed at $3,699,000, this four-bedroom, six-bath estate sits on 0.90 acres of breathtaking mountain landscape at 1210 King Gap Road. Designed in 1972 by renowned architect Jim Fox, the residence is a perfect example of organic architecture, inspired by the principles of Frank Lloyd Wright. Fox’s design approach is evident throughout the property, as the home blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating a sense of harmony and peace that is hard to find in today’s real estate market.

This house is more than a home; it is an architectural masterpiece with a remarkable history. Among its most famous owners were Burt Reynolds and his then-wife, Loni Anderson. While filming the Academy Award-nominated movie “Deliverance” in nearby Rabun County in 1972, Reynolds discovered this stunning property and fell in love with the area. He purchased the home and made it his mountain retreat, adding thoughtful enhancements to elevate its beauty and comfort. In a letter dated December 23, 1983, Reynolds expressed his affection for the house, writing, “I own about fourteen houses. Whenever I am asked which one is my favorite, without a moment’s hesitation I always say my house in the mountains.” This statement speaks volumes about the unique charm and appeal of this exceptional estate.

From the moment you enter the private courtyard, the home’s distinctive architectural style is unmistakable. Every detail reflects Jim Fox’s vision of blending design with nature. The welcoming foyer provides multiple access points to the main level, the lower level, and the upper floors, creating a sense of flow and openness throughout the home. The heart of the house features a striking kitchen, a sunken living room, and elegant dining areas that frame long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Expansive windows and natural materials allow the outdoors to become part of the living experience, filling the home with light and warmth.

The outdoor spaces have been designed for relaxation, entertainment, and an elevated lifestyle. A stone terrace serves as an ideal gathering place, complete with a large stone fireplace for cozy evenings under the stars. A heated in-ground plunge pool and waterfall add a luxurious touch, creating the perfect setting for warm summer days or crisp autumn afternoons. The outdoor area also includes a serving bar and multiple sitting and dining areas, making it easy to host gatherings or simply enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature.

Inside, the home offers a layout that balances privacy with connectivity. The upper-level primary suite, which has its own separate entrance, features spectacular mountain and garden views. This private retreat offers the ultimate in comfort and tranquility. Two additional bedrooms are located on another upper level, while the lower levels provide even more space and amenities for an enriched lifestyle. Here, you’ll find a guest bedroom suite, a pool table room for recreation, a dedicated office space, and a wine cellar for the ultimate connoisseur. One of the most distinctive features is a unique stone bathroom built by Loni Anderson for Burt Reynolds—a detail that adds to the home’s character and storied past.

Jim Fox’s design philosophy is evident in every aspect of this estate. His ability to integrate the rugged beauty of the surrounding mountains with contemporary architecture creates a sense of balance that is both striking and serene. Floor-to-ceiling windows capture panoramic views, while natural elements like stone and wood echo the textures of the landscape. Every space is designed with intention, ensuring that comfort, beauty, and functionality coexist perfectly.

Owning this property is about more than purchasing a house—it’s about acquiring a legacy of art, architecture, and history. Homes of this caliber rarely come on the market, making it an extraordinary real estate opportunity for the discerning buyer. Whether you envision this as a full-time residence, a seasonal retreat, or an investment in a world-class estate, the possibilities are endless. The location offers the best of mountain living, with easy access to the town of Highlands, renowned for its fine dining, boutique shopping, and vibrant cultural scene.

This property is truly move-in ready, offering not only architectural distinction but also modern upgrades and exceptional outdoor living spaces. From the plunge pool and waterfall to the wine cellar and stone terrace, every detail invites you to enjoy a lifestyle defined by elegance and comfort. Here, mornings can begin with coffee on the terrace as the sun rises over the mountains, and evenings can be spent by the fire under a starlit sky. It’s a home designed to inspire and a setting that promises peace and privacy while remaining close to all the conveniences of town.

Opportunities like this are rare in the real estate market. This iconic Jim Fox design, once cherished by Burt Reynolds as his favorite home, is ready for its next chapter. If you’ve been searching for an estate that offers unparalleled beauty, exceptional design, and a connection to nature, this property is unmatched. Contact your realtor today to schedule a private tour of this remarkable home before it is sold. Properties with this level of history, craftsmanship, and location are truly once in a lifetime.

At 1210 King Gap Road, architectural genius meets mountain majesty—a home that honors its past while embracing modern luxury. This is your chance to own one of Highlands’ most extraordinary homes, where timeless design and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony.

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