Howey-In-The Hills

by Tim Carpenter
(Lakeland, Florida)

If you're looking for one of the most unique and challenging courses in Florida, I'd recommend the Mission Inn Resort in Howey-In-The Hills. Yes, Florida does indeed have hills and the Mission Inn takes full advantage of them. It's a little off the beaten path, so to speak, but my personal favorite. The Mission Inn is also a regular stop for various NCAA Championship Tournaments and I can guarantee there's not another course like it anywhere in Florida.

If you're making a trip to Orlando or Disney World, it's worth the half hour or so drive. Some people might consider it remote, but it's a nice change from the hectic pace of Orlando/Kissimmee. The scenic drive winds though the hills and lake country of central Florida that few people from outside the area ever see. If you visit the golf course itself you're almost certain to run into a couple of Florida's famous alligators too. They're normally content to just watch.

Even if you don't go for the golf, there's also a spa available, as well as a winery only a few minutes away. It's just a nice place to stay if you're looking to get away from the Vegas-style atmosphere elsewhere in the area.