Highland Lakes is an inviting and vibrant active adult community situated in the picturesque area of Leesburg in central Florida. Known for its tranquil setting, the community is surrounded by seven small lakes and natural wetlands, providing a peaceful environment filled with opportunities to enjoy nature. Residents have access to scenic model sailboat racing and catch-and-release fishing in the lakes, and several well-marked nature trails wind through the area, offering a chance to observe local wildlife such as foxes, eagles, and cranes. The beauty of these trails is enhanced by the inclusion of labeled plants that facilitate easy identification, allowing residents to learn about the local flora as they enjoy the outdoors.
The community features a total of 938 residences, thoughtfully designed to balance social engagement and individual privacy. The homes showcase mature landscaping often featuring Florida’s characteristic lemon, orange, and grapefruit trees. Houses within Highland Lakes, constructed by Pringle Development between 1990 and 1999, offer a range of moderately sized options, from 1,040 to 1,852 square feet. Buyers can choose between attached villas and single-family resale homes, which typically include two or three bedrooms, two baths, and either one- or two-car garages. To maximize comfort and the enjoyment of Florida’s climate, many homes boast screened lanais, Florida rooms, tile or wood floors, skylights, cathedral ceilings, dual vanities, walk-in closets, and bay windows, all within open and inviting floor plans that encourage gatherings with family and friends.
At the heart of the community is a spacious clubhouse, serving as the main hub for social activity and recreation. This facility features an exercise room, a heated indoor pool, an indoor walking track, tennis and pickleball courts, and an arena for various sports. Hobbyists can make use of a well-equipped woodcraft building and craft room, while a catering kitchen supports both casual snacks and larger events. Additional amenities within the clubhouse include a card room, meeting room, library, billiards room, and a space for ping pong. Outside, residents can enjoy an outdoor lap pool, four bocce ball courts, six tennis courts, eight shuffleboard courts, six horseshoe pits, and a softball field. Free RV and boat storage is available to homeowners, making it convenient to take advantage of Florida’s abundant water and camping opportunities.
Highland Lakes thrives with more than 50 special interest groups, clubs, and activity classes, all coordinated by a full-time activities director. Opportunities to stay active and social are plentiful, with clubs and activities ranging from aerobics, arts and crafts, billiards, card games, and quilting, to yoga, bowling, travel groups, pickleball, and country line dancing. The well-maintained landscaping, wide open common areas, and secure gated access further enhance the experience of living in this community, fostering a sense of belonging and ease among residents.
Conveniently located near the Florida Turnpike, Highland Lakes allows residents easy travel to Orlando’s major attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World, as well as to Orlando International Airport. The surrounding Leesburg area and greater central Florida region offer abundant recreational opportunities for anglers and boaters, with a wealth of lakes, fish camps, and marinas. Beaches along the Gulf Coast and the Ocala National Forest are within about an hour’s drive, making day trips easy and accessible.
Highland Lakes is recognized as a perfect destination for active adults seeking a 55+ community in Lake County, Florida. Its blend of natural beauty, robust amenities, active lifestyle options, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place to call home for those seeking both relaxation and engaging new opportunities in their retirement years.