Communities
Clermont
The City of Clermont was established in 1884 by the Clermont Improvement Company and named for the manager’s, A.F Wrotniski, birthplace of Clermont, France. It’s known by the locals as the “Gem of the Hills” due to the number of lakes surrounding Clermont and the rolling hills in much of Lake County, not common in most areas of Florida. The City of Clermont is home to the National Training Center, a world class sports and athletics center. Clermont offers a new Rails to Trails bike trail which extends from Clermont to Apopka, approximately 30 miles in length. There is so much to see and do in Clermont.
http://cityofclermont.com/
Ferndale
Formerly known as West Apopka, the community of Ferndale, is a rural community of about 230 residents. It is located in Lake County, bordering beautiful Lake Apopka. Ferndale will soon be home to the new 192-acre Ferndale Preserve which will provide many unique outdoor experiences.
Montverde
The town of Montverde was established in 1885 and incorporated in 1925. Located on the west shore of Lake Apopka, its name comes from the Spanish words “Monte Verde,” meaning “green hill”, named by an early visitor from Vermont who came across Lake Apopka and was impressed by the rolling green hills that surround the lake. Montverde still maintains this small town rural character. It’s known for the Montverde Academy, a private boarding school with an international student body.
http://www.mymontverde.com/
Oakland
The Town of Oakland was incorporated in 1887. The name comes from the expansive live-oak trees in the area. It became a thriving city, with sawmills, sugar mills, hotel, and shops all contributing to a bustling downtown area. Over a 30 year period the railroad decline and a disastrous downtown fire contributed to the decline of Oakland’s business district. It has since rebounded and is now a focal point for the region. The Town’s elected officials and employees are committed to maintaining and enhancing Oakland’s treasured small town character and preserving a “sense of place”. Oakland is also home to the Oakland Nature Preserve featuring a 2/3 mile boardwalk leading through the preserve to a covered pavilion on Lake Apopka.
http://www.oaktownusa.com/
Winter Garden
The City of Winter Garden was established by Henry Harrel of Alachua in 1857. Formerly known as Beulah, the name Winter Garden was selected in 1908 because of the perennial blossoms and mild winters. Its downtown area has recently benefited from successful redevelopment efforts while maintaining that quaint feel with local stores, restaurants, and a train museum. While in Winter Garden, the West Orange Trail is a wonderful place for a bike ride or a leisurely stroll. The city also has two large parks, a public boat ramp on Lake Apopka, along with playground and picnic areas.
