If you’re thinking about retiring somewhere that offers more than just sunshine and golf carts, think lake views, friendly neighbors, and a vibrant social scene, then Rarity Bay in Vonore, Tennessee, deserves your attention.
This gated community, tucked along the shores of Tellico Lake, has been quietly building a reputation as one of the Southeast’s best-kept secrets. A recent feature in Islands.com described it as “an underrated up-and-coming gated retirement community,” and after reading that article, I couldn’t agree more.
Let me walk you through what makes Rarity Bay such a standout and why, if you’re even thinking about relocating to Tennessee, you need to give Rick Smenner a call.
A Community on the Lake (But Without the Crowds)
Rarity Bay sits on a private peninsula that juts into the scenic waters of Tellico Lake. That means you get lake views from nearly every angle, and it feels like you’re in your own peaceful world, yet you’re only about 35 minutes from Knoxville and its airport, shopping, and top-tier medical facilities.
The lake itself is one of the cleanest in Tennessee, great for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on your deck with a cup of coffee while the sun rises over the water.
Unlike more crowded retirement hotspots, Rarity Bay still has room to breathe. It’s growing, but in a thoughtful, community-first way.
Active, Social, and Anything but Boring
One of the biggest misconceptions about retirement communities is that they’re sleepy. Not here.
In Rarity Bay, residents stay active and engaged with an impressive list of amenities and clubs. There’s something for everyone:
- Championship Golf Course with spectacular mountain views
- Private Marina Access for your boat or kayak
- Equestrian Center with stables and riding trails
- Pickleball, Tennis & Fitness Center
- Walking Trails through woods and lakeside paths
- Clubhouse Dining and Social Events
- Over 60 resident-run clubs, from photography and gardening to book clubs and fantasy football
Whether you’re an early morning golfer, a sunset cruiser on the lake, or someone who just wants to make friends over dinner and wine tastings, you’ll fit right in.
Real Estate That Makes Sense
Compared to what you’d pay in places like Florida, the Carolinas, or Arizona, Rarity Bay offers incredible value. You can find:
- Condos starting in the high $200,000
- Golf villas and single-family homes in the $600,000–$1.2 million range
- Custom lakefront estates that go higher depending on size and location
- Buildable lots with water or mountain views if you want to create your dream home
And let’s not forget Tennessee has no state income tax, which makes this an even smarter move financially.
Resident-Run and Proud of It
Rarity Bay’s story isn’t just about beautiful homes and views. It’s about community.
After the original developer stepped away, the residents stepped up. Today, the homeowners association manages the community, oversees amenities, and helps shape its future. That local involvement shows — from well-maintained roads to the full events calendar to the friendly, welcoming vibe you get the moment you drive through the gate.
You’re not just moving into a neighborhood, you’re joining something meaningful.
Why You Should Call Rick Smenner
Now here’s the real key to making the most of your Rarity Bay visit: Call Rick Smenner.
Rick’s a local real estate expert who lives and breathes the Tellico Lake area. He knows Rarity Bay inside and out, from which homes have the best sunrise views to which lots give you walking distance to the marina or clubhouse.
He’ll tailor your visit based on your lifestyle, budget, and wishlist. Whether you want a turnkey lakefront villa or are ready to build a dream home from scratch, Rick is the person who can walk you through every option, without pressure, and with total honesty.
Buying a retirement home is a big step. Having someone like Rick in your corner can make the process smoother, less stressful, and way more enjoyable.
Call Rick Smenner at 865‑696‑9002
Or email him at rick@tellicolakehometeam.com
Final Thoughts
The Islands.com article said it best: Rarity Bay is underrated for now. But with everything it offers from lake life and low taxes to beautiful homes and a genuinely welcoming community, it’s only a matter of time before the word gets out.
If you want a shot at one of the last best places in the Southeast, don’t wait. Come visit. See it for yourself. And when you do, make sure you’ve got Rick Smenner showing you around.