University Park

Originally a hunting preserve owned by insurance executives, the 300-acre expanse of pine flatwoods that would later become University Park was purchased in 1980 by international entrepreneurs Rolf and Barbara Pasold. Along with local real estate developer Pat Neal, the Pasolds sought to create a community centered around its own golf course while also preserving as much of the natural landscape as possible, encouraging contractors to relocate trees rather than cutting them down while clearing land for the course. Rolf and Barbara also wanted to pay homage to the place they used to live prior to developing University Park. Originally from Austria, they moved to England after World War II before coming to the United States in 1979. As an ode to their adopted homeland, he and Barbara named each of the community’s neighborhoods after areas in and around Greater London. In 1991, the University Park Country Club was opened, boasting a 27-hole course rated 4 stars by Golf Digest.

In addition to its award-winning golf course, University Park also features plenty of additional recreational features, such as tennis and pickleball courts, croquet, its own restaurant called the Park Grille and Café, community center (now known as the Business Offices), sidewalks throughout, perfect for walking or biking through the community, and plenty of social events organized by residents. Furthermore, University Park is situated in a prime location, just a few minutes from both Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota’s bayfront, each featuring plenty of shopping, dining, and leisure opportunities that embody the Florida lifestyle.