Some of Florida’s best-known natural wonders have long amazed and relaxed visitors to North Central Florida. Home of the Nature Coast, it is a place to get away from the crowds and back to basics. Lake County, in the extreme southern end of North Central Florida, is named for the 1,440 lakes carved into its gently rolling landscape. It’s the ideal setting for the area’s sloping vineyards and popular Lakeridge Winery, a 125-acre estate in Clermont offering daily tours and wine tastings.
Lush parks and historic landmarks are spread throughout Mount Dora,
in the eastern portion of Lake County. Specialty shops and boutiques are plentiful in the downtown area and nearby is the famous Renninger’s. This 117-acre complex includes an antique market center and a separate flea and farmer’s market. Other Lake County attractions include the Presidents Hall of Fame, featuring one-of-a-kind exhibits of memorabilia and a renowned replica of the White House. The museum is located at the base of the Citrus Tower in Clermont where you’ll get a 360-degree view of eight counties. The Austin Carriage Museum holds the largest collection of antique horse-drawn carriages in the South.