Plan Your Relaxing Getaway to Real Florida
Birds chirping. Waves lapping at a boat dock. Sun shining through vineyards. Finding the ultimate relaxation is possible with a visit to the Real Florida, and it’s closer than you think. Just a short drive west of Orlando sits Lake County and one of the most beautiful scenes in all of Florida. With rolling hills and more than 1,000 lakes, it’s easily one of the most relaxing places in the region and planning your getaway here is as easy as it gets. Whether your idea of complete relaxation is bass fishing in the calm waters of a gorgeous lake, telling stories of times past and snuggling by the campfire, or just getting away from it all and talking with loved ones over a delicious meal, the Real Florida is here for you. Now let’s get started planning your trip.
Lodging
There are a wide range of amazing places to stay in Lake County, so making your lodging decisions will be as easy as deciding what type best fits your style. Lake County offers a range of trusted Holiday Inn, Hilton and Marriott branded properties throughout the destination to suit all budgets and tastes. For a more pampered mind and body experience, book your stay at an area resort. Mission Inn Resort & Club, located in Howey-in-the-Hills, is an historic staple that’s been around for more than a century. Complete with a luxurious spa, exquisite rooms, an expansive event space and two championship golf courses, there’s far more than meets the eye to this gem. Another option is the Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora, which has been around since 1883 and is the oldest continuously operated hotel in the state. With grand lakefront rooms and historic grounds, this Inn is a must-see whether you book your stay here or just visit for dinner.
Lake County is also perfect for the road traveler, with quite a few nature parks that offer spaces and overnight stays for RV enthusiasts. Many of these parks also offer traditional camping, but out of all of these options there’s one that clearly tops them all with its famous glamping experience. Lake Louisa State Park presents glamping as a way to sleep under the stars with all the comforts of home, like air conditioning and heating. There’s never been a better way to get closer to nature in Lake County.
Things to Do
The real fun begins once your lodging is booked. There’s so much to see and do here in the Real Florida that you’ll be wondering why it took you so long to visit. From bass fishing on picturesque lakes to hiking the trails, sailing the Blueways, wine and beer tasting, dining, golfing and all the while taking in mesmerizing vistas, you’ll be inspired by the many ways the Real Florida is here for you.
On the Water
Being out on the water – or near it, for that matter – is one of the most calming and relaxing experiences around. And with more than 1,000 lakes to choose from in Lake County, it’s as easy as closing your eyes and pointing to a spot on the map.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Lake County, whether you bring your boat or decide to rent one once you arrive. Local fishing guides are also available for a more personalized experience. If fishing isn’t your thing, take the boat out along with a picnic and your Bluetooth speaker for a day of rest, relaxation and beautiful sunshine. Jet ski rentals are available as well, and though it’s a bit more fast-paced, we definitely recommend getting out on a lake with a few friends and some jet skis to melt the stress away.
Boat tours also give visitors and locals alike a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with the local waterways. For the best views, check out Premier Boat Tours for its tour down the Dora Canal, which has been nicknamed one of the most beautiful miles of waterway in the world.
Back to Nature
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just love looking out at stunning natural landscapes, Lake County is one of the best places for nature lovers in all of Florida. Parks and preserves can be found just about everywhere, and many have trails for hikers, bicyclists and riding on horseback. In the Real Florida, trails exist in the water, too, where kayakers can traverse the Blueways for a turtle’s eye view of everything above and below the water.
Taking it Easy
Sometimes the perfect path to relaxing the mind is by experiencing a new location. Take some time to peruse the quaint boutique shops and art galleries of downtown Mount Dora and then pull up a chair at a waterfront restaurant in Tavares, Eustis, Clermont or Leesburg. If it’s the green you’re after, try your swing at some of the best golf courses in the state, like the El Campeón course at Mission Inn Resort & Club or the course at Bella Collina, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, which offers a luxurious round of golf among vineyards and estate homes.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Lake County today and discover just how good it feels to be welcomed by the Real Florida. It’s here for you.
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