Ride in Marco Island

Wednesday May 27th

Bob Smith and Meg are in Florida to get some work done on their condo.  We have been fortunate has come to a close....at least for now.

We met at Bob Smith's condo in Marco Island for a 39 mile ride around the island.  Bob Smith graciously (co) lead the ride.  Bob Wood had been on Marco Island once before but did not see much since he did the same thing I did and drove down North Collier Blvd. on our first visit to this island which is beginning part of the 10,000 islands. 

On this ride there was no area off-limits and we were able to cover the entire island in those 39 miles.  We were even lucky to see this.

These are burrowing owls.  You can find them all over the island as they are sectioned off by rope and are perched on their poles.  The first photo shows two owls and the second photo shows three owls if you look closely.  The last owl came out of the burrow squaking.....We want royalties!!!!

We visited Rose Marina where the Key West Express leaves in season, the Snook Inn which serves great grouper sandwiches, and the beach area. 

The last place we visited was Key Marco.  This is a private community of expensive homes that are built on rolling hills and are built in the mangroves of Marco.  Mangroves are swampy areas that contain a lot of wildlife.  Here is a link with more information.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_Marco


One interesting site we saw among the houses.

Not really sure what this is other than a fort in this neighborhood.   It made for a great photo.

I have been told that this community is often used by cyclists practicing for time trials.   I have also been told that this community wanted to remain private and off limits to the general public but the Marco Island government said no way.  They want visitors to feel welcome whether on a car or on a bike.

Bob and Peg graciously allowed us to shower and provided lunch after the ride.   Bob Wood and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and hope to do it again in the future as Bob and Meg are headed back to NJ on Friday.