In the early 80’s, Dave Wilson, a pioneer developer with a visionary dream, discovered the 72-acre farm owned by Flo and John Bernard. The land was flat with lush pastures gently sloping to the sparking water’s edge of Smith Mountain Lake. The man-made lake expanded for 40 miles and offers 500 miles of shoreline. The peninsula, with the panoramic views of the sunrise and sunsets, sat in front of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains located in south central Virginia. 

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Bernard’s Landing Resort became a reality in 1981. A large group of builders, architects, real estate agents, financial advisors, along with Carol Hommel and Bobby Middleton, real estate entrepreneurs, joined Wilson’s team and became an integral part of the development. Bobby arrived on his 32' Chris Craft (Miss P) and Carol returned from New York.  A large group contributed to the establishment of the resort. Bill Atwood from Charlottesville was the architect.  He had previously designed several of the condominiums at Wintergreen Resort in West Virginia. Bob Cook, retired from the railroad, came along to help take care of the grounds and his wife, Ann, who eventually opened the Dockside Deli. After the first four townhouses at Crown Point were in place and sold, the first condominium building was built, called Dockside I. Later Dockside II, III and IV were constructed. As the interest and community grew, Clubhouse Towers Condominiums and The Meadows Patio Homes were created. In 1982 Captain B. (Harry Wills) was the dock master the new Marina for the next twenty years. In 1983-84 the conference center was added to Dockside IV overlooking the pool in front of the building. The rectangular pool and tennis court were added in 1983 beside the clubhouse. Then Sailor's Cove and Woodlands buildings were added. Hillside was built in 1985-86. The last strip of land on the tip of the peninsula was developed with the townhouses and towers known as Peninsula Point.  The original farmhouse was renovated and serves as the club house, with a library and post office, where people go to relax, read or collect their mail. An indoor pool, exercise area, sauna, and racquetball court were added at the clubhouse area. The administration building, restaurant, and conference center were erected. In 1988, the property owners bought the marina, restaurant, conference center and resort leasing from Dominion Bank. After The Landing Restaurant served Bernard’s community for 15 years, Napoli at the Lake became the new restaurant and bar managed by Ray and Sue Wilson. Today the Poolside Cabana Bar and Grill sits adjacent to the rectangular pool and playground at the club huse.. 
Bernard’s landing offers amenities for people of all ages. Swim or relax at the two beaches or outdoor pools or at the indoor pool. Fish from the docks or rent a boat from the marina. Hit a few tennis, pickle ball or racquet balls or exercise on the gym equipment. The playground and basketball courts provide safe places for children to play. Browse around in Bernie’s Store or enjoy lunch at Napoli’s at the lake. The area around the clubhouse provides an excellent atmosphere for weddings and family reunions. Bernard’s Landing at Smith Mountain Lake has become a popular recreational area. Boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, riding personal watercraft, and sailing are common activities at the lake as well as family reunions, conferences, and weddings.
The vision has become a conveniently located premier place to visit on vacation or a place to live forever.