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Central Florida’s inside harbors pure wonders that can wow first-time guests: 1,000 lakes to discover and waterways galore, trails of each sort, and a vacation-friendly local weather practically year-round. It’s an journey paradise, and it’s only a brief drive from Orlando Worldwide Airport. Since few know a spot like its locals, we tapped Lake County native Arden Tilghman for her high suggestions. Tilghman has a deep appreciation for her dwelling’s outside actions, and as founding father of P3, an outside tour firm, she’s made getting Lake County guests outdoors her enterprise. If you wish to discover one of the best of what the realm has to supply, the following pointers are certain to ship a getaway that’s an ideal mix of journey and rest.
Exterior: What’s one factor each traveler ought to learn about Lake County?
Arden Tilghman: The number of issues to do. We’re finest recognized for our water-based adventures, however we additionally cater to each sort of outside curiosity conceivable. Whether or not you’re searching for thrilling experiences or peaceable escapes, we’ve received one thing for everybody. The sheer number of leisure choices is one thing many overlook when they give thought to visiting our space, and it’s one of many best-kept secrets and techniques right here.

What’s one thing that you are able to do in Lake County that you simply received’t discover in lots of different locations?
These are simply a few the distinctive actions that make our area so particular and filled with surprises:
Catboat Tours: These mini catamarans are good for anybody searching for a rush—they fulfill the necessity for pace and supply an exciting option to discover the water. After finishing any mandatory stipulations, you’ll be within the driver’s seat, main your individual journey.
Seaplane Tours: Lake County is dwelling to America’s Seaplane Metropolis—Tavares, Florida. Reserving a seaplane tour is without doubt one of the most extraordinary and unforgettable methods to expertise the realm. You will get a chook’s-eye view of the Harris Chain of Lakes and the St. John’s River, the nation’s solely north-flowing river. Plus, it’s arduous to beat the thrill of taking off and touchdown on the water.
How can energetic vacationers burn off some power whereas exploring Lake County’s outside sights?
For these searching for an adventurous, energy-burning exercise, my high advice will at all times be a guided horseback trail ride. We’re surrounded by gorgeous forests, parks, lakes, rivers, and trails, and there’s no higher option to expertise all of that than from horseback. I’ll admit, I’m a bit biased—I grew up on a horse farm—nevertheless it really is a particular option to discover the county.

What’s on the market for on-water adventurers?
You’ll be able to kayak or paddleboard on each physique of water within the county, providing one other nice option to get energetic whereas soaking within the Florida solar.
After I’m within the temper for a peaceable paddle, I like venturing alongside the “in between” waterways. The Lake County Blueways are a favourite, the place I can glide by wetlands, streams, and creeks that hyperlink the area’s huge community of lakes. These hidden corners of our waterways are full of quite a lot of chook species and an astonishing richness of life, providing a tranquil escape into nature’s abundance.
What are a few of the finest mountain climbing and biking trails to discover?
Lake County has a whole bunch of miles of maintained trails throughout its state and metropolis parks. Whether or not you’re hiking across the Crooked River Protect or using on the Mount Dora Mountain Bike Trails, there’s a path for everybody.
The mountain climbing trails in Lake Louisa State Park are very well-maintained and straightforward to navigate. The park has brief, family-friendly path choices in addition to longer, more difficult routes. You may as well be part of a guided ecotour to be taught extra in regards to the wildlife whilst you discover the park’s pure magnificence.
Central Florida attracts a number of guests to its subtropical local weather and theme parks. Lake Louisa State Park is the proper place for them to faucet into our outside scene, too. Guests may even keep in a luxury glamping tent or off-grid eco tent and spend an evening underneath the celebrities in model.

When you’ve had your fill of mountain climbing, biking, and paddling, what’s one of the simplest ways to calm down and unwind?
There’s nothing fairly like having fun with a great meal and a chilly drink by the water, and Lake County has no scarcity of choices. Seize a cocktail on the Tiki Bar on Lake Minneola, or have a chew at Salt Shack on the Lake in Clermont. There are many waterfront bars and eating places to select from. The waterfront in Tavares is one among my favourite locations for a laid-back vibe. For a bit extra of an indulgence, Mount Dora additionally presents great choices for wining and eating after a day of journey.
However truthfully, what actually calls to me is a campfire. Lake County has loads of glamping choices, which implies you possibly can keep in nature with out sacrificing consolation.
Uncover Lake County, Florida invitations guests to tune out the noise and chaos of on a regular basis life and tune in to the pure sounds, gorgeous landscapes, and outside adventures of Lake County—solely 30 miles outdoors Orlando. Visit our website and begin planning your journey to Florida’s lakeside escape: Lake County, Florida!