Rarity Bay, Tennessee

Rarity Bay Country Club

At the Rarity Bay Country Club, there is no shortage of activities for its members. Whether you’re wanting to host a family gathering, play a round of golf, or just have a nice meal, there is something for everyone.

The Rarity Bay Country Club has the following amenities for members:

In addition to these amenities, the country club also has a restaurant that is open for lunch and dinner. Rarity Bay’s go-to restaurant, the Bay Bistro, serves up classic options for lunch including favorites like burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. For dinner, the Bay Bistro serves up more gourmet fare with everything ranging from filets, gourmet salads, and pastas and beyond. Whether members are wanting to grab a quick lunch before golf or a nice dinner, the Bay Bistro has something for every occasion.

Rarity Bay Golf Course

Designed by DJ DeVictor, the Rarity Bay Golf Course is a beautiful course spread out over 150 acres, with stunning views of Tellico Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains.

The course is a 72 par course and is a championship golf course. It offers challenging play for golfers of every skill. All golf rates include green fees, cart fees, and complimentary range balls.

This course also has a putting green, practice sand traps, and a driving range for practice.

Community Garden

Rarity Bay also has a Community Garden where residents can rent out a space to grow vegetables, herbs, or flowers.

During the warmer months, there is also a Farmer’s Market where residents can buy or sell freshly grown items. Any items that are leftover are donated to Meals on Wheels.

Hiking Trails

For those who enjoy taking advantage of East Tennessee’s mild four seasons, Rarity Bay features 125 acres of riding and hiking trails.

Residents can take in the pristine beauty of the Smoky Mountains and Tellico Lake, as they explore the hiking trails surrounding the community. Rarity Bay has access to two trailheads, Turnstone Trail Head and Bluffs Trail Head. These well-marked trails have access to picnic tables and benches. On one of the trails, there is even access to a Civil War Era Cemetery on one of the trails.

Social Clubs

The Rarity Bay Community also has a lively social atmosphere. There is a range of clubs suiting every interest to allow residents to socialize with one another.

Here are just a few of the clubs that are part of the community:

• Hiking Club
• Bay Bowlers
• Line Dancing
• Mahjongg
• Men’s Jet Ski Group
• Ladies Walking Group
• Rarity Bay Yacht Club
• Rarity Bay Pickleball
• Yoga

With so many clubs suited for a variety of interests, there is no shortage of ways that residents can get be involved in the community.

Rarity Bay: An Active, Luxury Lakefront Community

Set on the beautiful shores of Tellico Lake, Rarity Bay is an incredible 55+ community in Tennessee. If being a part of this active, luxury community interests you, do not hesitate to reach out. Rick can be reached at 865-696-9002 or via email at rick@tellicolakehometeam.

Located on the shores of Tellico Lake, Rarity Bay is a community that combines natural beauty, recreation, and a sense of community. Its story is not your average one, with twists and turns that have molded it into what it is today. From Mike Ross’s big idea to a resident-led community, this lakeside spot has evolved over the years.

Mike Ross’s Vision: How It All Began

In the early 2000s, Rarity Bay was born from Mike Ross’s idea. He had already developed multiple Rarity-branded communities in East Tennessee, each with its own flavor. With Rarity Bay, Ross wanted to create something special – a place where luxury living met the peaceful waters of Tellico Lake. Here, residents could golf, horseback ride, and have time on the lake all in one community. Located on a peninsula within Tellico Reservoir, Rarity Bay is situated between the Little Tennessee River to the southeast and Bat Creek to the northwest. Ross aimed to make the most of this natural setting, with 10 miles of shoreline, beautiful homes, and great amenities. He wanted to build more than just houses. He wanted to create a lifestyle.

• Golf course with lake views
• Marina for easy access to Tellico Lake
• Equestrian facilities for a taste of country living
• Walking trails to nature at your doorstep

This combination of amenities attracted people who wanted more than just a house. It was about community, nature, and lake living.

Financial Issues & Legal Battles: The Ross Fall

Despite the big idea, things didn’t go as planned for Ross. Financial mistakes led to a lawsuit, accusing him of using development funds for personal use instead of investing in the community. This caused many residents and buyers to lose confidence and a cloud was cast over the project.

• Financial issues created uncertainty for residents
• Lawsuit claimed misused funds, mistrust
• Ross walked away, leaving Rarity Bay’s future in limbo

Even in tough times, Rarity Bay still had appeal. The natural beauty and the core of Ross’s vision was still there, attracting people. Eventually, the property changed hands, and the community got a fresh start.

Residents Take the Reins: A New Beginning

In 2012, Rarity Bay underwent a major change. It became 100% resident-led, run by a resident board. With control in their own hands, residents worked to preserve what made Rarity Bay special and grow it.

• 100% resident-led since 2012
• Residents handle finances, maintenance, and community decisions
• The focus is on improving life for everyone

This new era brought a sense of unity. Every resident now had a voice, and together, they strengthened Rarity Bay. It’s not just a pretty place to live – it’s a thriving community where everyone feels connected.

Life at Rarity Bay Today

Today, Rarity Bay is a place where the past is just history. The focus is on community, connection, and lake living. Residents have worked to make it the perfect spot for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a mix of activity and relaxation.

• The golf course is still a big draw for serious and casual golfers
• Marina and the boat club make lake life easy
• Horse enthusiasts still love the equestrian facilities
• Social clubs and events keep neighbors close

Rarity Bay is about more than just living by the lake – it’s about being part of a community. Whether you’re joining a dinner at the clubhouse, hitting the trails or meeting friends for a game of golf, there’s a real sense of community here. Resident-led governance means everyone has a voice, so the community stays in touch with what matters most to its residents.

What’s So Special About Rarity Bay?

Rarity Bay isn’t about the lake views or the golf course. It’s about the people. Mike Ross’s big idea had some hiccups along the way, but the residents turned those hiccups into opportunities. They made Rarity Bay a thriving community where everyone has a stake. The ups and downs only made Rarity Bay stronger. It’s a place for those who want more than just a house; they want a home surrounded by nature, friends, and freedom to live life. From its beginning to its transformation into a resident-led community, Rarity Bay has always been about creating luxury with a sense of belonging. Join the story. Contact Rick Smenner to discover the Rarity Bay Lifestyle. Call or Text 865-696-9002.