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Clermont is a city of about 43,000 people in Lake County, Florida, about 25 miles west of downtown Orlando. Set among rolling hills and spring-fed lakes, it was once at the heart of central Florida's citrus belt, and its hills, unusual for Florida, now draw runners, cyclists and triathletes who give it the nickname Choice of Champions.
The landmark Florida Citrus Tower, built in 1956, offers views over the hills and lakes from its observation deck. The historic downtown sits on the shore of Lake Minneola, where Waterfront Park, Victory Pointe and the paved Lake Minneola Scenic Trail make the lakefront the city's favorite place to walk, run and watch the sunset.
Around town, Lakeridge Winery offers tastings of Florida wines, Lake Louisa State Park protects lakes and sandhills for swimming, paddling and camping, and Sugarloaf Mountain is a training ground for cyclists. Clermont is an easy and quieter base for Orlando's theme parks, which are about 30 to 40 minutes away.
Built in 1956 when citrus groves covered the hills, this tall tower on U.S. 27 has an observation deck with wide views over Clermont's lakes and rolling countryside. An elevator takes you to the top, and there are shops at the base. Go on a clear day, ideally late in the afternoon.
One of the highest points on the Florida peninsula, rising to about 312 feet north of Clermont. Its quiet roads are famous with cyclists, who come to train on the climbs, and there are pleasant views over Lake Apopka and the countryside. Watch for riders if driving, and note that the land is mostly private.
A large winery north of Clermont growing muscadine and hybrid grapes suited to Florida's climate. Visitors can take a short tour, enjoy a tasting of its wines and browse the gift shop, and the winery hosts music festivals on some weekends. Tastings are popular, so arrive early on Saturdays.
A large state park south of Clermont with several lakes, rolling sandhills and pine woods. Visitors swim and paddle on Lake Louisa, hike or ride horses on the trails and stay at cabins or campsites. Wildlife includes deer and many birds. Bring water and sun protection, and expect a park fee.
A park on the shore of Lake Minneola next to downtown Clermont, with a sandy beach, swimming area, playgrounds, picnic pavilions and the start of the lakefront trail. It hosts triathlons and community events. Come for sunset over the lake, and check posted signs before swimming.
A modern park on Lake Minneola near downtown, built around stormwater ponds and wetlands with boardwalks, walking paths, overlooks and an amphitheater for events. Wading birds are common. It connects to the lakefront trail and is a nice stop on a walk or ride along the shore.
A paved multi-use trail looping along Lake Minneola from downtown Clermont toward Minneola, part of the regional trail system that connects to the West Orange Trail. It is very popular with runners and cyclists training for races. Start early to beat the heat and bring plenty of water.
A citrus grove and market south of Clermont where visitors can pick their own fruit in season, sample fresh juice and browse local produce and gifts. It also offers rides through the groves on large off-road trucks. The picking season usually runs from late fall into spring; check what is ripe first.
Clermont's compact historic downtown sits on a hill just above Lake Minneola, with local restaurants, cafes, bars and small shops in older buildings. Monthly events and a farmers market bring crowds on weekends. Walk down to the waterfront afterward for sunset over the lake.
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Photo: Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5
Photo: Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5
Photo: Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5
Photo: Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5
Photo: Ebyabe, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5
