Given that the game originated in Scotland, it is not surprising that a Scottish colony developer is responsible for bringing golf to southwest Florida. John Hamilton Gillespie, who ran the development company, built one of the country’s first courses, a modest two-hole course, in 1885. Lured by the mild winters in the area, other country clubs quickly appeared. Today, the area offers so many options that selecting four fabulous golf communities in Sarasota is a challenge.

Those who wish to live in a country can choose from moderately priced family developments to million dollar properties in gated communities. While some developments have rentals available for vacationers, others only offer privately owned homes. Standard amenities generally include a clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts.

The Meadows is a 1,650-acre planned community with approximately 3,400 homes. Options in residences range from condos to villas and from single-family homes to garden homes. The natural environment has 80 canals and lakes, trails for biking or walking and nature reserves. The center of the community is a commercial town with a bank, restaurants, shops, boutiques, a dentist, and a travel agency. Three courses range from par 65 to par 72. There are also 16 tennis courts, a gym and a swimming pool.

Lakewood Ranch encompasses about 8,500 acres, with homes ranging from townhouses to million-dollar farms. Three 18-hole courses, 9 polo fields, and tennis courts offer residents a variety of options. There are also shops, restaurants and health care centers.

Heritage Oaks can provide vacation rentals as well as privately owned homes. Residents can choose from luxury condos, villas, single-family homes, or duplexes. There is an 18 hole course with a snack shop on the 10th hole. Tennis courts, heated pools, and scenic trails offer alternative recreational activities. The clubhouse serves a buffet on Sundays and daily menus for lunch and dinner.

The Bent Tree planned community features single-family homes and condos, with properties available in the gated community within Bent Tree, Woodlands. Country club membership is not required, but if chosen provides access to club facilities. The Bent Tree Country Club has an 18-hole par 72 course that was remodeled in 2010.

Golfers can usually play year-round, thanks to the region’s mild climate. The city is on the Gulf Coast, between Tampa and Fort Myers, in southwest Florida. Sarasota includes several keys or islands in the gulf. Siesta Key and Lido Key are popular for their beaches. Bird Key is considered one of the most prestigious residential areas on Florida’s west coast, with many famous residents.