Cozy Cottage with Heated Pool in Historic Downtown Mount Dora Enjoy all the comforts of home when you stay in this cozy 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom short term rental in Mount Dora. Built in 1926; The Tortoise and The Hare Cottage can comfortably accommodate 4 guests (more with available roll-away bed and mini crib) and is perfect for families or friends traveling together seeking a relaxing getaway. The adjacent Hibiscus Studio VRBO# 1182807; which sleeps up to 3, may also be booked to accommodate more guests. The common areas which include the pool and fire pit area are shared between the Cottage and the Studio. This property has a heated pool with screen enclosure, comfortable outdoor seating and a gas grill. The fenced back yard area has a paver patio with seating and fire pit. The cottage is conveniently located just 5 blocks from Donnelly Street and all that downtown Mount Dora has to offer. The options for your days in Central Florida are endless: antiquing, art and craft festivals, a boat tour on scenic Lake Dora, a Sea Plane ride, enjoying the numerous restaurants within walking distance, live music, biking on the local trails, golfing, tennis, picnics at the park and community theatres or if you decide to spend a day at the beach or one of the numerous Orlando Theme Parks you will return to a quiet, safe place to sleep with all the comforts of home! THE PROPERTY Master Bedroom: King Bed, on-suite bathroom | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed Relax in this historic cottage with 1,200 square feet of comfortable living space. Whether you're relaxing by the heated pool with a good book, sitting on the front porch sipping morning coffee, roasting marshmallows around the fire pit or cooking a delicious meal in the newly renovated kitchen, this cozy cottage will be a delightful home-away-from-home for you and your companions. This home features a comfortable living room with flat screen, smart TV/DVD/cable/internet, a bright and airy nook with desk for writing in your journal, and ceiling fans throughout. Wrap yourself up with a cozy blanket and watch your favorite movies with loved ones! Enjoy cooking a delicious meal in the kitchen and take a seat at the dining room table for good times with family. Equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, microwave, dishwasher and dual full pot or single serve coffee maker, this fully equipped kitchen is perfect for trying out new recipes or making a sandwich. Dining room table sits four but additional drop leaf table and 4 extra chairs are in the house for additional seating. Washer and dryer are available adjacent to the kitchen. At the end of your busy day, climb into the king-sized bed in the master bedroom for a good night's rest. Complete with an en-suite bath and walk-in closet, it is the perfect oasis to find extra privacy. This room features a beautiful panoramic canvas photo of the Dora Canal by Steve Vaughan, a renowned Winter Park photographer! Antique furniture and Tommy Bahama bedding set the mood for tranquil relaxation. The rest of the cottage offers 1 more bedroom, featuring a queen bed and walk-in closet. “The Gwen Room”, named after the first, lovely lady to stay there, boast a vintage, upcycled vibe with bedside tables made from old flooring and a headboard made from pecky cypress and an old screen door. Pecky cypress is a Florida treasure and reflects the old Florida charm this house strives to emulate! Refresh yourself after a day strolling Mount Dora in the 2nd bathroom with large tub and shower. The beds and bedding are brand new and chosen with your comfort in mind. In fact, the entire home is newly furnished to create a fresh, eclectic and clean feel! THE LOCATION The Tortoise and The Hare Cottage is located just blocks from Downtown Mount Dora, known for its extensive shopping, antiques and fine dining. Two complimentary bicycles are available if you prefer to ride around and explore the rich history of the area. Enjoy the sunset over Lake Dora, or be more adventurous with a tour through Florida's most beautiful mile, the Dora Canal! Seaplane rides are also available on Lake Dora, so consider an aeronautical adventure through the skies. There are many golf courses located in Lake County, including Mount Dora Golf Club. During your visit enjoy strolling through our many parks. Palm Island Park offers a nature boardwalk along Lake Dora and you can end your perfect day outdoors watching the sunset by the lighthouse at Grantham Point! Mount Dora is known for its many great restaurants, and offers a variety of cuisine including American, Italian, German, French, and Cuban. Something for everyone’s taste preferences. To satisfy your sweet tooth, visit one of the many bakeries and ice cream shops downtown. You'll find incredible homemade goodies to munch on, or to take home with you! You will be in a great location, just 1.5 hours from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico! Additionally, Mount Dora is located just under an hour outside of Orlando, so plan a road trip for an adventurous day running around Central Florida’s most famous theme parks and visiting nearby beaches. All of the major attractions, such as Disney World, Universal Orlando Studios, Sea World and Daytona Beach, are just a short drive away, making for fun-filled days! OUR MISSION Our mission is to make your vacation rental easy and fun! If you have questions prior to your trip, we are happy to assist you 7 days a week. Owners are located within 10 minutes from the property, and are available during your stay to help with any issues that may arise. We are happy to assist with special requests to make your arrival or stay the best vacation time of your life! ADDITIONAL DETAILS Key Residence Features: - Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, central air conditioning & heating, in-unit laundry machines, screened in heated pool with gas grill, wireless internet access, flat screen cable TV, rear patio with fire pit, fenced back yard, front porch, spacious yard and driveway parking. Two bicycles are available on site, please see rules regarding use. Hair dryers located in each bathroom, ironing board and iron located in hall closet. You will also find some games and books for your enjoyment. We provide start up paper products, toiletries and first morning coffee, tea and light snacks. - Incredible Mount Dora location! Enjoy easy access to lake activities, the lighthouse, restaurants, bakeries, shopping, and Orlando attractions. Policies: - Strict no smoking policy - Pet friendly; please contact owner for approval, additional fees determined on individual basis, must have proof of flea preventative and up to date shots. - No events, parties or large gatherings - Must be at least 25 years old to book - Additional fees and taxes may apply - Photo ID may be required upon check-in - Please read additional rules for the property and remember that the yard and pool are shared with the studio apartment that adjoins to the screened pool enclosure. -2 to 4 week rental 10% discount -1 to 2 month rental 20% discount -3+ months rental 25% discount Please review my cancellation policy carefully. I believe that VRBO offers travel insurance at checkout. If not, please consider purchasing travel insurance if you can not afford the loss of monies as I can not refund on cancellations under 14 days. The only exception will be if I am able to re-book for the time you cancelled, in that case I will refund the nights I am able to book.