Punta Gorda, FL

After leaving the Everglades, I headed back to the Gulf coast to check out some  areas less populated by 'snow birds'.  Punta Gorda is a smaller community and less developed than Fort Myers to the south. It's known for it's natural areas, over 40% of the county is preserved natural space.   It sits on a harbor with Port Charlotte to the north. There's a lovely harbor walk with many public parks along the way.   The highlight was a visit to the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture garden.  Started by a wealthy couple who had a vision of creating this park for the preservation of native plants and offering a place for local sculptors to display their creativity.

Charlotte Harbor

 Palm sculpture from the side

Palm sculpture head-on

Peace River--very aptly named