North Atlanta has some of the most prestigious country club communities in the Southeast. These neighborhoods combine golf, recreation, and luxury living in settings that offer privacy and access to top schools, shopping, and business hubs. Explore this guide to the top luxury gated country club communities in the area including what they offer, what living there is like, and what makes each stand out.
Sugarloaf Country Club – Duluth
Sugarloaf Country Club is one of Gwinnett County’s most recognized luxury communities. It centers around the TPC Sugarloaf golf course, a 27-hole layout designed by Greg Norman and known for hosting PGA Tour events. The community spans over 1,200 acres and features a gated entrance, landscaped streets, and a range of custom-built estate homes.
Residents enjoy access to tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center, and a large clubhouse with dining and social spaces. Home prices often start around $1.5 million and can exceed $4 million, depending on lot size and views. Its location near the Infinite Energy Center and major highways makes it ideal for those who want luxury living with easy access to Atlanta’s business centers.
The River Club – Suwanee
The River Club is one of North Atlanta’s most exclusive gated golf communities. The Greg Norman–designed course follows the natural terrain along the Chattahoochee River. The community includes a golf clubhouse, sports and aquatic center, fitness facilities, and miles of nature trails.
Homes for sale in The River Club are custom estates built by some of the region’s top luxury builders, typically priced from $2 million and above. The community places a strong emphasis on privacy, member services, and family lifestyle. With its setting and amenities, The River Club offers a complete country club environment for those seeking resort-style living close to the city.
Laurel Springs – Suwanee
Laurel Springs is a guard-gated neighborhood built around a Jack Nicklaus–designed golf course. It offers a more family-oriented environment while maintaining a high level of luxury. The neighborhood includes a clubhouse, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a fitness center.
Homes in Laurel Springs generally range from $900,000 to over $2 million. Residents appreciate its proximity to top-rated Forsyth County schools and its easy access to major highways and shopping areas. Laurel Springs combines a well-managed club experience with a comfortable, residential community feel.
St. Marlo Country Club – Duluth
St. Marlo Country Club is a gated community in South Forsyth County, known for its scenic golf course, wide streets, and large custom homes. The neighborhood includes an 18-hole Denis Griffiths–designed course, a private clubhouse, tennis courts, and a pool complex.
Homes here often start around $1 million and can exceed $2 million. Many feature golf course views, outdoor living areas, and luxury finishes. The community’s convenient access to Johns Creek and Alpharetta makes it a popular choice for professionals seeking both privacy and accessibility.
St. Ives Country Club – Johns Creek
St. Ives Country Club is an established gated community located in Johns Creek. The 18-hole golf course, designed by Joe Lee, is the centerpiece of the neighborhood. The club offers tennis courts, swimming facilities, and both casual and fine dining options.
Homes in St. Ives typically range from $1 million to $2.5 million, with architecture that reflects timeless design. The community’s location provides access to top schools and the shopping and dining options of Johns Creek and Alpharetta. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a mature, established neighborhood with full club amenities.
Country Club of the South – Alpharetta
Country Club of the South is one of the original luxury golf communities in North Atlanta. Built in the late 1980s, it remains a flagship neighborhood in Alpharetta. The 900-acre gated community features large estates, tree-lined streets, and a championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Amenities include a clubhouse, tennis center, swimming pool, fitness facilities, and organized social programs. Homes often start around $1.2 million and can exceed $4 million. With a long reputation for prestige, Country Club of the South continues to attract executives and families seeking established luxury living.
The Manor Golf & Country Club – Milton
The Manor Golf & Country Club is a gated community in Milton, on the border of Fulton and Cherokee counties. The 18-hole Tom Watson–designed course is one of the area’s most respected private golf experiences. The community also offers a 32,000-square-foot clubhouse, tennis facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, and fitness and dining areas.
Homes in The Manor are large custom estates, often starting around $1.5 million and reaching beyond $4 million. The neighborhood combines country club amenities with newer construction and modern layouts. It’s a good option for those seeking a more contemporary setting in a luxury community environment.
Edinburgh / Bear’s Best Atlanta – Suwanee
Edinburgh, also known as Bear’s Best Atlanta, centers around a Jack Nicklaus course that features replicas of his favorite holes from around the world. The gated community includes a clubhouse, pool, and tennis facilities, and it is known for its scenic golf course views and quiet setting.
Homes here range from $900,000 to over $2 million. The community’s location in Suwanee offers access to Gwinnett County schools and a balance of suburban and upscale living. Edinburgh appeals to golfers and families who want high-end amenities without being in the most exclusive price tier.
Chateau Elan Estates – Braselton
Chateau Elan Estates is part of the larger Chateau Elan Resort property, known for its winery, spa, and multiple golf courses. The Estates section offers private, gated luxury homes with access to resort amenities. The community includes three golf courses, a country club, restaurants, and a fitness and tennis center.
Homes range from $800,000 to several million dollars. Many overlook golf fairways or the resort’s rolling terrain. Chateau Elan appeals to buyers who want a resort environment with easy access to I-85 and the growing Braselton and Hoschton areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a country club community?
Look at location, commute times, school districts, and lifestyle amenities such as golf, tennis, fitness, and dining. Compare HOA and club fees, as they vary widely among communities.
Are these clubs open to non-residents?
Most are private and require membership, although some offer social or limited access memberships to non-residents. Always confirm availability and initiation requirements.
What is the general price range?
Luxury homes in these communities usually start around $900,000 and can reach $5 million or more, depending on lot size, view, and customization.
Do all of these have gated access?
Yes, each of these neighborhoods is gated with private security, providing residents with a high level of privacy and control over access.
Work With Floyd Real Estate Group
If you’re interested in buying or selling in one of North Atlanta’s premier country club communities, the Floyd Real Estate Group can help. Their team specializes in luxury properties and understands the details that make each of these neighborhoods distinct. Contact Floyd Real Estate Group today for expert guidance, private tours, and access to exclusive listings across North Atlanta’s top golf and country club communities.
