MONTVERDE, FLORIDA

Montverde, Florida is a small town of less than 1,000 people on the western shore of Lake Apopka about 23 miles west of Orlando. 

The modern era settlement began in 1865; the town was originally named West Lake Apopka. 

Montverde Town Center

Local history says that early settlers soon changed the name to Monte Verde, the Spanish words for "green mountain".  

This makes sense, because when viewed from Lake Apopka, the hills are some of the highest in Florida and they are very green.

Somewhere along the way, the name was shortened to Montverde.  And it's pronounced the gringo way, not the Spanish way.  

MONT VERD, rhymes with bird.

Montverde House on Lake Florence

Truskett Park is a small facility on the east side of town with a dock that gives you a great view of Lake Apopka.  There is also a small picnic area in the park.

It is a convenient place to park your car for a walking or cycling tour of Montverde.  It is at the end of Porter Avenue.

Truskett Park in Montverde on Lake Apopka

The Montverde Cemetery is downtown behind the United Methodist Church, and contains the graves of some of the original homesteaders.

Some pioneer families in the area were named Harden, Porter, Griggs, Franklin, Shaw and Harper.  

One of them, John Harden, was a veteran of the Seminole Wars and was given a land grant of 200 acres as a reward for this service.

Harper House, Montverde

The photo above is of the Harper House;  it is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the oldest buildings in Montverde.  It is on Porter Avenue very close to Truskett Park.

The town of Montverde was incorporated in 1925, and from 1887 until 1969 the Tavares and Gulf Railroad served the town, hauling citrus and vegetables from local farms.

Montverde United Methodist Church

Montverde is a quiet town with a rural feel and modest well kept homes.

It's a safe place to ride a bicycle, with mostly quiet residential streets and a beautiful wooded bike path that runs from Truskett Park on Lake Apopka to the west side of town.  

The campus of Montverde Academy is also a nice place to ride.

Montverde Home

The interesting old home in the photo above is typical of the houses you'll see on the quiet side streets of this charming little town.

THIS TOWN IS HOME OF MONTVERDE ACADEMY

Montverde Academy

The dominant institution in this village is Montverde Academy, a beautiful private school that was founded in 1912.  The school is coeducational and provides a college preparatory education.  

It has boarding accommodations for its many international students, and also serves students from the local area as well as a day school.

Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers, 2018

It also has a nationally famous basketball program that draws many people into this small town to watch the games.

Montverde Academy is usually ranked one of the best prep teams in the country.

Many players go on to major colleges and the professional leagues.

Montverde and Green Mountain Scenic Byway

Montverde is also on the Green Mountain Scenic Byway that has great scenery.  

You drive through rolling wooded hills with views of Lake Apopka.

Green Mountain Scenic Overlook Pavilion

There is a scenic observation tower along the way where you can stop to relax or begin a hike.

THINGS TO DO IN MONTVERDE, FLORIDA

Bella Collina Golf Club
15920 County Road 455, Montverde, FL 34756. (407) 469-4911 

Tee off in style at the Bella Collina Golf Club, a favorite spot for golf enthusiasts. Nestled in the rolling hills of Montverde, this championship golf course offers not only a challenging game but also breathtaking views of Lake Apopka.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, the well-maintained fairways and impeccable greens make for an enjoyable round. Afterward, unwind at the Tuscan-inspired clubhouse, where a gourmet meal awaits.

It's a perfect blend of sport and sophistication, offering a memorable day on the greens. 

Montverde Cemetery
17404 7th St, Montverde, FL 34756 

For a step back in time, visit the Montverde Cemetery, a serene and historical site that reflects the town's roots. Our recommendation? Take a peaceful stroll among the tombstones, some dating back to the late 1800s, and discover the stories of Montverde's earliest residents.

The moss-draped oaks and quiet ambiance provide a reflective escape. It's a poignant reminder of the town's rich history and the generations that have contributed to shaping the Montverde we know today. 

Montverde Academy Historic District
17235 7th St, Montverde, FL 34756 

Explore the Montverde Academy Historic District, where a stroll through the campus feels like a journey through time. Established in 1912, Montverde Academy, as discussed earlier, boasts historic architecture, charming buildings, and a sense of academic tradition.

Our recommendation? Wander through the manicured lawns and take in the timeless charm of the campus. Don't miss the historic chapel, a focal point with its quaint elegance.

It's a peaceful and nostalgic experience, offering a glimpse into the educational legacy that has shaped Montverde for over a century. 

Montverde Green Mountain Scenic Byway
County Road 455, Montverde, FL 34756 

Hit the road on the Montverde Green Mountain Scenic Byway, a picturesque drive discussed earlier on this page that winds through rolling hills and pristine landscapes.

Our recommendation? Pack a picnic and stop at one of the designated overlooks to savor panoramic views of Lake Apopka and the surrounding hills.

The byway is especially captivating during sunset, casting a warm glow over the countryside. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic drive, the Montverde Green Mountain Scenic Byway offers a refreshing escape into Florida's natural beauty. 

Truskett Park 
17338 1st Street, Montverde, FL 34756 

Truskett Park is discussed earlier on this page. 

MY LAMENT ABOUT MONTVERDE, FLORIDA

I moved to Florida many years ago and Montverde immediately became one of my favorite places to visit.  It was small, quiet, and very much Old Florida.

This is still true, but I can see the storm clouds on the horizon.  A huge planned community named Bella Collina is emerging on the south side of Montverde. 

It is upscale and beautiful, but I'm afraid it won't be long before this favorite small town loses its unique identity.

From Orlando, the scenic way to reach Montverde is to go west on State Road 50 to Winter Garden.  Go to downtown Winter Garden and continue west to County Road 455.

From Tavares, go south on State Road 19 and turn left just outside of town on County Road 561.  Take it down to County Road 455 and head east through some of the highest hills in peninsular Florida.