297 Big Rock Lake Rd, Pickens, SC 29671

Some homes offer a place to live. This one offers a world of its own. Set among dramatic rock formations on 7.11 acres along Big Rock Mountain, this beautiful home brings storybook architecture to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Breathtaking rooflines, a gorgeous stone tower, graceful arches, and richly textured masonry create an unforgettable arrival, while the surrounding forest makes the home feel as if it is one with nature. More than half of the property’s boundary adjoins Naturaland Trust conservation, creating an extraordinary setting for privacy, exciting wildlife, and outdoor exploration. Built in 2011, this distinctive retreat pairs architectural character with inviting everyday spaces. Hardwood floors connect the main living and dining areas, where generous windows frame the wooded surroundings and a substantial stone fireplace anchors the room. The remodeled and updated kitchen features dark cabinetry, light countertops, stainless appliances including a wine cooler, and an open connection to both the dining and living area. A window-lined sunroom provides a peaceful spot for morning coffee, reading, or simply watching the seasons change. Upstairs, the Master suite is a memorable retreat with soaring wood ceilings, exposed beams, and a striking arched stone alcove. The laundry chute in the walk-in closet of the suite makes housekeeping convenient and the shower/garden tub combo creates a relaxing spa escape right in your very own oasis. Two additional bedrooms and an office provide room to spread out, while the third-floor “Crow’s Nest” loft area features custom bookshelves and access to a private balcony overlooking the trees. The first floor adds versatile space for recreation, hobbies, home theater fun, separate gathering area, or even another bedroom, with exterior access. The experience continues beyond the walls. An industrial steel bridgeway leads directly from the foyer into the mountain’s dramatic rock landscape, where steps secured into the stone invite you toward a gorgeous overlook. Follow trails through your own acreage and connect with the Naturaland trail network on Big Rock Mountain. Here, an afternoon hike begins at home, towering rock formations become part of the scenery, and rainfall brings a seasonal waterfall to life on the property. With more than half the boundary adjoining conservation land, the surrounding wilderness is central to what makes this setting so remarkable. Each outdoor space offers a different way to take it in. Linger over coffee on the screened porch, gather around a fire on the adjoining deck, or retreat to the Crow’s Nest balcony for a quiet evening among the treetops. Across the road, Big Rock Lake offers glimpses of water through the winter trees. Even the craftsmanship has a story of its own. Stone sourced from the new Pickens High School excavation and reclaimed granite from Cincinnati’s Riverfront Stadium give the arches, architectural accents, and masonry a history as distinctive as their appearance. The detached two-car garage carries that character forward with stone and reclaimed barn wood from Kentucky, while an equipped workshop area, insulated interior, and floored attic storage add everyday practicality. Approximately 15 minutes from Downtown Pickens, this retreat offers a secluded mountain setting within reach of everyday conveniences, while also a short drive to this region’s celebrated areas such as Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee, Table Rock State Park, Sassafras Mountain Overlook, and the waterfalls and trails that define the South Carolina foothills. Yet the most compelling destination could very well be at your own front door - a storybook home nestled between the cliffs of Big Rock Mountain, with plenty of land to explore and an extraordinary landscape to call your own. Whether you envision a full-time residence or a remarkable personal retreat, this is a property where the architecture and the landscape are equally unforgettable.

Remarks

Fairytales can come true after all! At least they can in Pickens with this one of a kind “Hansel and Gretel” look-a-like beauty. Sitting on 7.11 acres at the base of Big Rock Mountain, this gorgeous home becomes one with all the nature that surrounds it. Gigantic rock formations surround the house, letting the home complement the already existing beauty that Mother Nature has created. While the land has an abundance of natural wonders, the details on this home match in beauty and style. It all starts at the foot of the driveway. From the creative mailbox display, stamped concrete, boulder placement, and gorgeous landscaping, the owners left no stone unturned as they perfected the path that leads to a home that will undoubtedly make your jaw drop. The granite lined arches, window sills, and cornerstones add that extra touch but what really pulls the house all together is the curved roof lines, rounded two-toned shingles, and decorative fascia design. It’s hard to believe a masterpiece of this magnitude is tucked away in our Upstate mountains! Hardwood floors, wood burning rock fireplace, antique interior doors, and windows with nothing but tree top views are ready to greet you at the front door. Lots of cabinet space is provided in the kitchen and walk-in laundry room. The screened-in porch is right off the dining room, leading to a one of a kind deck that is engineered beautifully into the side of the mountain. The wildlife you will view from this spot is unmatched. From colorful birds, black bears, fox, etc., there is no telling what will join you while you are relaxing outside. If you need a little more fresh air, walk across the bridge that is accessible from the side foyer door and climb the metal stairs that have been built into the rock formation. After a short 5 minute hike to a bench that sits just above the roof line of the house, you’ll have a bird’s eye view to see for miles away. You will be left speechless! Again, this home is unlike any other you’ll ever encounter. What is currently being used as a home theater houses another guest bedroom. The sunroom sits just steps away from this space and is perfect for those cold and rainy days. Walk the beautiful custom oak stairs to the Master ensuite. Which detail will you love more? The rock tower, gorgeous wood ceiling, or antique French doors? To make laundry easier, a conveniently located laundry chute was installed in the Master bathroom. In addition to another guest bedroom and full bath on this floor, a den was created with a Jefferson ladder that leads to a loft space and its very own Juliette balcony. Just a few short steps away is a large office with gorgeous wood ceilings that hover above. The details in these rooms must be viewed in person to truly appreciate. Other features to note are the oversized and insulated 2 car detached garage with room for recreational vehicles, a workshop space, pump house for the well with a high end filtration system, and a lower rock formation that is the perfect backdrop for a 10ft waterfall after a storm has passed. There is ample storage between the floored attic space in the garage, rock tower, and several spacious rooms in the crawlspace. With Big Rock Mountain being owned by a conservation Trust and a part of the Nine Times Forest, there is an abundance of hiking trails, boulder climbing, and rock rappelling literally in the backyard of this home. A number of trails have been formed on the property which connect with the community trails. Table Rock State Park, Lakes Jocassee and Keowee, dozens of famous waterfalls, and the Sassafras Observation Tower are just around the corner. You will feel a million miles away from everything yet you’re only 8 miles from city center of Pickens with great options for shopping, restaurants, and grocery stores. Once you arrive, you won’t believe your eyes and it will feel like you’re living a dream. Approved appointments only for showings. Call today. Your very own fairytale awaits you!