Zirconia
North CarolinaWelcome to Zirconia
Living in Zirconia, NC—A Mountain Haven Worth Calling Home
A Quiet Portrait of Life
Zirconia is an unincorporated community in southern Henderson County, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Named after high-quality zircon gemstone deposits mined in the late 19th century, it’s now an enclave offering rural hideaway living. Homes here are typically set on spacious wooded lots.
Outdoor Adventures Abound
Zirconia’s location is tailor-made for outdoor enthusiasts:
- Surrounded by lakes, rivers, forests, and stunning waterfalls, there’s a lot to explore at your doorstep.
- Outdoor hotspots like Chimney Rock State Park are a short drive away for climbing, hiking, and panoramic views.
- The nearby Pisgah National Forest offers iconic trails like Looking Glass Rock and Graveyard Fields, along with natural attractions like Sliding Rock and Linville Falls.
Community and Culture
Part of the scenic Tuxedo–Green River area, Zirconia is embraced by summer camps and a state game lands preserve, creating a lush, calm ambiance. It’s a place where evenings are filled with natural sounds rather than city noise .
Just 6 miles from Hendersonville and 40 minutes from Asheville via I‑26.
Perfect for Both Full-Time and Part-Time Living
If you’re looking to escape the hustle—or create a seasonal retreat—the Zirconia area caters to all:
- Peaceful and scenic, yet not isolated
- Ideal for outdoor-focused families, creative professionals, and active retirees
- High-quality schools, healthcare, and amenities are found in nearby towns like Hendersonville, Flat Rock, and Saluda
Local Highlights at Your Fingertips
- Folk Art Center along the Blue Ridge Parkway—home to Appalachian crafts and galleries, just a scenic drive away.
- Quaint towns like Saluda, Flat Rock, and Hendersonville add cultural charm and local dining experiences.
- Farmers markets, trailheads, and rehearsal theaters round out a lifestyle rich in experiences.
Graveyard Fields: Picture from Asheville Trails
In summary:
Zirconia is more than a place; it’s an invitation to slow down, step outside, and connect deeply with landscape and life. Whether you’re hunting for a full-time home, a high-elevation hobby spot, or a serene vacation escape, Zirconia offers both refuge and adventure in equal measure.
FEATURED LISTING
Zirconia, NC 28790
Welcome to Stonehenge, a peaceful mountain retreat tucked into the scenic ridgelines of Zirconia with access to Lake Summit. This property isn’t just a home; it’s a launchpad to the outdoors. From world-class mountain biking to serene lakeside moments, every day feels like a vacation with purpose. Inside you’ll find refreshed interiors, new mini-splits and HVAC, and high-speed internet. Formal dining opens to the chef’s kitchen with gas range. The sunroom overlooks the mountains with seasonal long-range winter views.
Just 20 minutes to Hendersonville; close to Saluda, Asheville, and Brevard. Discover the best of WNC mountain living, whether you’re seeking a year-round sanctuary or a lifestyle-focused second home. At nearly 3,000 ft elevation, this property spans 6 rolling acres of Appalachian Forest, a babbling stream, walking trails through mature forest, laurel blooms, multiple outdoor living areas and barn. Adventure, serenity, and short-term rental friendly; this one has it all.
Homes for Sale in Zirconia
781 Payne Drive $3,995,000 Subdivision:  | Back to Property List | ||||||||
| Incredible opportunity to own 129± acres of beautiful, gently rolling land, including nearly 20 acres of mature, professionally cultivated grapevines—managed by the 2019 NC Grape Grower of the Year. This well-appointed property features excellent infrastructure, including established gravel roadways, underground power, multiple outbuildings, and a 1,200 sq. ft. greenhouse, making it ideal for those seeking to expand into viticulture, agribusiness, or private estate living. A 1-bedroom, 1-bath hand-hewn log cabin sits overlooking the vineyard, offering scenic views and rustic charm—perfect for a private getaway, short-term rental, or potential tasting room. The property also borders the 500-mile Palmetto Trail, offering direct access to hiking and biking tourism opportunities. Steeped in history, Kingdom Farms was founded by freed slaves after the Civil War and is one of only two recognized “kingdoms†in U.S. history—offering both historic and cultural value. Whether you're a winemaker, investor, or seeking a legacy property with income potential, Kingdom Farms is a rare find with all the elements in place for your vision to thrive. | Basic Information
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 | Listing courtesy of: Carolina Living Associates LLC - joebuell@jpar.net The data relating to real estate on this Web site derive in part from the North Carolina Mountain Multiple Listing Services, Inc. IDX program. Brokers make an effort to deliver accurate information, but buyers should independently verify any information on which they will rely in a transaction. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither Alexandra Schrank nor any listing broker shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, or misprints, and they shall be held totally harmless from any damages arising from reliance upon this data. This data is provided exclusively for consumer -- personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties they may be interested in purchasing. © 2025 North Carolina Mountain Multiple Listing Services, Inc. Data updated October 12, 2025. |