Monday, February 21, 2011

Four Fabulous Sarasota Golf Communities

By Leroy McGee


Considering that golf was invented in Scotland, it is fitting that the manager of a development community for Scottish immigrants brought the game to Sarasota. Developer John Hamilton Gillespie built a two-hole course in 1886. By 1905, Gillespie had constructed a nine-hole course that encompassed 110 acres. Other clubs soon appeared. Today, there are so many possibilities in the county that choosing just four fabulous Sarasota golf communities can be a challenge.

Those who wish to live on a course can choose from moderately priced family developments to million-dollar estates in gated communities. While some developments have rentals available for vacationers, others only offer privately owned homes. Standard amenities typically include a clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts.

The Meadows planned community has around 3,400 homes and 1,650 acres of natural landscape that includes 80 lakes or other waterways. Home choices range from villas to condos, with garden and single-family homes available as well. Tennis, biking, swimming and hiking are additional recreational choices. A shopping village features a bank, boutiques, stores, restaurants and other services. There are three 18-hole courses, one of which is public, ranging from par 65 to par 72.

Lakewood Ranch covers about 8,500 acres and features home choices from townhomes to seven-figure estates. Three courses equate to fifty-four holes for the golfing enthusiast. There are also tennis courts and nine polo fields. The community also features options for dining, health care, and shopping.

Heritage Oaks is one community that also has units that vacationers can rent. Homeowners can choose a condo, single-family dwelling, villa, or luxury duplex. Golfers can enjoy 18 holes, have a snack at the tenth hole, or avail themselves of the pro shop. Four heated pools and lighted tennis courts are also to be found. Lunch and dinner are served in the clubhouse, as well as a Sunday buffet.

Bent Tree has moderately priced condominiums and single-family homes, with more expensive estates behind the gates of Woodlands, a "community within a community." Purchasing a country club membership is not mandatory, but membership offers many benefits. Both fine and casual dining options are available at the clubhouse. The golf course is 18 holes and a par 72, and was renovated in 2010.

Golfers are typically able to play year-round, thanks to the region's mild climate. The city is on the Gulf Coast, between Tampa and Fort Myers, in southwestern Florida. Sarasota includes several keys, or islands, in the gulf. Siesta Key and Lido Key are popular for their beaches. Bird Key is considered to be among the most prestigious residential areas on Florida's west coast, boasting numerous celebrity residents.




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