For many of us, "getting away from it all" consists of escaping to a woodland sanctuary, where the clean, pine-scented air reminds us that we've left the headaches of the city or suburbs far behind. Adding a luxurious home and ample outdoor recreation to this picture gives you all the ingredients for an irresistible vacation retreat at the Mountain Club at Cashiers, a new private residence club nestled within the lush surroundings of North Carolina's Sapphire Valley.

Popular destinations among residents of the Southeast, Cashiers and the Sapphire Valley are located less than three hours from Atlanta, Charlotte and Columbia. The Cashiers area is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, particularly golf, tennis, fly-fishing, white water rafting and hiking.

The Mountain Club at Cashiers provides all the rewards of vacation home ownership without the typical hassles and financial burdens. This exclusive club is a member-owned retreat that boasts luxurious homes, pampering services and a magnificent clubhouse.

The Blue Ridge Mountains provide a majestic backdrop for this exclusive paradise. Walking and biking trails meander through a landscape filled with hardwood forests, wildflower spangled meadows, and trout filled streams. The hub of activity is the charming village of Cashiers, where antique shops and gourmet restaurants abound.

Construction for the Mountain Club began in November 2002. Today, the Club boasts completion of seven of a planned 37 spacious, elegantly furnished and appointed, 2,400-square foot homes. Each three-bedroom home features a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops, private decks, steam showers, dual master bedroom suites and stone fireplaces in the living rooms.

Construction of the clubhouse began in early February 2004, with completion expected in October 2004. Rustic yet elegant, the Clubhouse will have a reception lobby, members' lounge, state-of-the-art exercise facility, sauna and steam room, men's and women's locker rooms, wine cellar, long-term clothing and sports equipment, pool and cabana, jetted spa and tennis courts.

Members also have access to the Sapphire Valley Resort's health club, swimming pool, tennis center and golf course while in residence. Additionally, the Sapphire Valley Resort affords immediate access to fitness trails, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, snow skiing and tubing.

Members could not be more enthusiastic about their experience at The Mountain Club. "My family and kids have so much fun while staying at The Mountain Club!" says member Cathy Duffy. "The amenities at the Sapphire Valley Resort right across the street provide all the recreation a family could want. Best of all, downtown Cashiers is just five minutes away."

Members particularly enjoy The Mountain Club's extensive services and amenities, as well as its dedicated staff. Kevin and Alesia Mahoney and their three children head for the Mountain Club as often as possible. "It's like staying in a fine hotel, but with more privacy and amenities," they note.

According to Joe Parks, the Club's sales director "the concierge service simplifies the member's vacation experience. We'll reserve golf tee times, tennis courts, make dinner reservations and plan other activities and excursions." At The Mountain Club you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the intimacy of your own Cashiers home, and a full-time staff that caters to your luxury and convenience.

"The private residence club concept matches cost with the time available to enjoy your second home,' says Parks. "Membership takes the responsibilities and hassles out of ownership. You come and go as you please, while a friendly and competent staff handles the details."

Club members agree. "I love having a second home, but leaving all the details to someone else," says Duffy. "We get all the benefits of ownership at a fraction of the cost."

Mountain Club members receive a fee simple general warranty deed with all of the rights and privileges afforded an owner of whole ownership real estate. Each member owns a one-sixth undivided interest in a luxurious, fully furnished, three-bedroom/three and one-half bath home.

As a member of The Mountain Club at Cashiers, you can enjoy a spectacular location, a full complement of amenities, and unparalleled service. For information on Mountain Club memberships, call toll free (877) 744-7454, or visit the website at www.mountainclubinfo.com.