5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MISS...
1
Winter Park
2
Bok Tower Gardens
3
Green Meadows Petting Farm
4
Sponge Docks
5
Solterra Resort
Winter Park, with its cobblestone streets and farmer’s market, is not
to be missed. Our friend and property manager Laurie used to buy
beautiful caterpillars there for her son, then raise and release them as
butterflies. Winter Park has yearly Film, Arts and Jazz Festivals. Take a
boat tour through a chain of lakes and indulge in Winter Park’s boutique
shopping, bars and restaurants. Check out the 4 Rivers for BBQ. Winter
Park is just a 40 minute drive from Solterra Resort.
A 45 minute drive south of Solterra is Bok Tower Gardens. The Tower
itself sits atop Iron Mountain, at 298 feet, one of the highest points in
peninsular Florida. Walk the Pine Ridge Trail through the forest that
once covered millions of acres of the Southeastern U.S. Look out for the
gopher tortoise, landlord of the forest, who protects 350 animal species
living in its burrow. Near Bok tower is Spook Hill, where you put your car
in neutral and it goes uphill. Don't believe us? Check it out on YouTube.
Green Meadows Farm is a sweet petting farm just 20 minutes from
Solterra Resort. Learn about pigs, goats, turkeys, ducks, donkeys, Elmer
the Asian water buffalo and more! You can milk a cow and ride a train,
tractor or a pony. You can bring your own lunch to the picnic areas or
buy snacks at the General Store. There are plenty of seasonal events, so
check out the farm's website before you go. If you want a more upscale
animal adventure, Safari Wilderness is 30 minutes west of Solterra.
Tarpon Springs Florida, home of the historic Sponge Docks near Tampa,
is a lovely family day trip, 90 minutes away. This Greek community is
famous for its sponges and the best Greek restaurants outside Athens,
Greece. Visit the Aquarium, take a sightseeing cruise, fishing trip, or
even go sponge diving. We defy you to come away without a sponge or
some of the great wines, cheese, handmade soaps or lotions. Clearwater
Beach is 30 minutes away.
The first time we went to Solterra, we enjoyed the house so much that
we forgot to walk to the clubhouse for three days. What a mistake!
With tennis courts and a fantastic gym, huge pool with slide, cabanas,
volleyball and football, there is so much to do. There is even a log fire
for those cooler winter months. With your own private pool and games
room to enjoy, you will be tempted to never leave the house. Don't
make the same mistake we did!