Welcome to Achasta, a residential golf community located in historic Dahlonega, Ga. Brought to you by Linger Longer Communities, the creator of Reynolds Plantation and Reynolds Landing—award-winning communities on Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Ga. Achasta brings the majesty of the North Georgia mountains home, with beautiful natural scenery, miles of walking trails, and amenities that embrace upscale living with a rustic, natural charm.
"Achasta" is derived from the Tsalagi (Cherokee) word for light. Exemplifying Linger Longer Communities' commitment to preserving the heritage of the land and the people who once inhabited it, Achasta is a tribute to the Cherokee people and the Chestatee River. Known as the "River of Running Lights," the Chestatee flows through the community, illustrating the light of new beginnings while leaving a legacy of its own throughout the beautiful mountain topography.
Near the start of the legendary Appalachian Trail, Achasta offers families a breathtaking setting offset with the rich traditions of historic Dahlonega. As the site of the first-ever American Gold Rush, Dahlonega is full of outdoor activities for all ages. Members can play 18 holes on the 6,995-yard, par-72 Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, go kayaking, tubing or fishing along the Chestatee River or stroll along historic Dahlonega's charming streets—host to the many and varied festivals that are part of Dahlonega's legacy.
Our Heritage: History of Reynolds Plantation
Reynolds Plantation is part of what was once known as "Cracker's Neck," a highly favored section of Greene County (named for Revolutionary War hero General Nathaniel Greene). After a period of decline, approximately 7,000 acres of Cracker's Neck was reclaimed by Mercer Reynolds Sr., who built a hunting retreat named "Linger Longer." A Greene County native, Reynolds was a highly successful businessman and inventor, earning a patent for his process of solidifying cottonseed oil. Although he moved to Chattanooga in the 1920s, he maintained ties to the area, often returning to "Linger Longer" to hunt, fish and relax.
During this same period, James Madison Reynolds, Sr., Mercer's cousin, was assembling land in the area for timber production. By the late 1930s the combined land holdings of the Reynolds family approximated 10,000 acres, which was left in a trust. In 1985, the trust was released to his grandchildren.
The owners of Reynolds Plantation began working to determine the best use of the land that their family had owned for so many years. As development of Reynolds Plantation continues, members of the Reynolds family remain intensely mindful of the historical value of the land and the need to preserve, and enhance, its natural beauty and legacy.