Mission Inn Golf and Tennis Resort is located in a very exclusive, secluded, yet luxurious property at “Howey-in-the-Hills”, northwest of Orlando, Florida.

Tom Skinner, our gracious host made us feel quite welcome, and gave us a complete tour of the property. From Spanish-flavored courtyard settings to fairway villas with their various spacious floor plans there are accommodations and packages for your golf getaway.

Places of interest that got my attention were the La Hacienda, which offers a breathtaking view of the 17th hole of the El Campeón golf course, along with a mouth watering breakfast, lunch or a lavish Sunday brunch. Next, Nicker’s is open for a casual lunch or dinner with a Prime Rib and Seafood Buffet on Saturday night. (Yum! Yum!) Then, there is El Conquistador to end the day with a fine dining experience. Our friends, Phoebe and Dick Perry, who live in Leesburg, say, “We go to the Mission Inn often for their great food and service.”

Given a choice from two outstanding golfing layouts (time permitting), Rosemary and I chose Las Colinas (“The Hills”), designed by former PGA player, Gary Koch, which received Golf for Women’s “Top Fairways” award. Although described as “woman friendly” with relatively wider fairways, its signature hole, a par 5 aptly named “Alligator Alley,” was treelined from tee to green. In the 12 years since Las Colinas has opened, it has matured into a very respectable test of golf.

Amenities abound, however. During your stay, reward yourself with a cruise aboard their 1930 River Yacht “La Reina,” which almost parallels the boat seen in Casablanca. The 49-passenger yacht is docked at Marina del Rey, and affords its passengers a journey on Lake Harris, Florida’s 5th largest lake. If you want to rest your clubs, take a sunset cruise, or pull out a fishing pole, there are rental boats and excursions for any occasion.

So much to do - so little time. From its exquisite lodging, succulent food, two beautiful golf courses, a hydro-spa, specialty shops, and so many ancillary excursions to engage in, what are you waiting for?

This award-winning destination has been owned and operated by the Beucher Family since 1964.

Take a walk (or hike) on the wild side and capture a piece of history that will truly captivate the very young and very old. Howey-in-the Hills is a howling good time.

Good golfing and bon appétit! www.missioninnresort.com Phone: 1-800-874-9053 10400 County Road 48 Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737

(view Mission Inn Golf and Tennis Resort's latest newsletter (.pdf))

from Ladies Golf Journey - Oct 2004