Florida coast to coast: historic moments and mountain views in Martin County
As he continues his sunrise to sunset drive, Simon Calder climbs to the top of the Sunshine state’s highest natural point and discovers a royal connection
“Disconnect to reconnect” is the slogan of Martin County, which is blessed with two shores: a 22-mile stretch of the Atlantic along Florida’s Treasure Coast to the east, and many miles more along the shore of Lake Okeechobee to the west.
Start with a single-handed ascent of Hobe Mountain, the highest natural point in South Florida. Luckily it’s a glorified sand dune, only 86 feet high. But it offers excellent views of Martin County — which has strong environmental credentials. No building can be higher than four storeys, and much of the land is protected.
Martin County is also rich in history. The community of Indiantown earned its name as one of the last Seminole Indian trading posts. The Native American tribe migrated to Florida in the 18th century, and managed a thriving economy until the Seminole Wars drove most of them out. But the name lives on in the Seminole Inn, the slogan of which is “Florida the way it used to be”.
The Inn was built by S Davis Warfield, president of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad, and opened in 1926. The social hostess at the opening gala was Wallace Warfield, who later became involved with the King Edward VIII. Because she was a divorced American, he was obliged to abdicate so he could marry her.
In Martin County you also learn that Florida is America’s oldest cattle-raising state; the Spanish imported them five centuries ago. Even today, Martin County has a thoroughbred horse racing tradition, and visitors can sign up to become a cowboy for a day.
America As You Like It has a seven night fly-drive to Hutchinson Island, Florida from £1099* including return flights on British Airways from Gatwick to Fort Lauderdale and seven nights room only at the Hutchinson Shores in a sunset view room, including nightly resort fee. To book visit www.americaasyoulikeit.com or call 020 8742 8299. Hertz car hire in Florida starts from just £21 per day. Visit Hertz.co.uk
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*Price includes flights and accommodation and is based on 2 adults sharing on a room only basis with selected travel dates and departure airports. Prices may vary, are subject to availability and correct as of 15 January 2018