Highlands Reserve FAQs | Orlando Villa Guide & Travel Tips

Highlands Reserve is an established golf community in Davenport, offering a selection of Orlando holiday villas in a residential-style setting. It is a popular choice for families and groups looking for an Orlando villa holiday with larger plots, a quieter atmosphere and good access to the theme parks. Unlike many newer developments, Highlands Reserve is not a gated resort and has a more traditional neighbourhood feel. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if Highlands Reserve is the right base for your Orlando holiday.

What size villas are available on Highlands Reserve?

Highlands Reserve primarily offers detached Orlando holiday villas. These typically range from around 3 to 6 bedrooms, making them suitable for families, mid-sized groups and some larger parties. Vacation homes here include private swimming pools, open-plan living areas and fully equipped kitchens, with some also featuring games rooms.

When was Highlands Reserve built or last updated and how many houses are on the community?

Highlands Reserve was developed in the late 1990s through to the early 2000s. The community includes several hundred detached villas. As an established development, properties can vary in style and condition, with many having been updated or refurbished over time.

How close are neighbouring villas on Highlands Reserve and are they overlooked?

Homes on Highlands Reserve are generally set on larger plots compared with many newer resorts, providing more space between neighbouring properties. Pool areas may still be partially overlooked in some locations, although homes backing onto the golf course or conservation areas can offer a greater sense of privacy.

Is Highlands Reserve peaceful or busy?

Highlands Reserve has a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared with resort-style communities. There are no large communal facilities drawing crowds, so the area remains relatively peaceful both during the day and in the evenings.

Does Highlands Reserve feel like a resort or a neighbourhood?

Highlands Reserve feels more like a residential neighbourhood than a resort. While it does have a golf course and a small number of shared features, it does not have the large clubhouse or resort-style amenities found in purpose-built holiday resorts.

Does staying in a vacation home on Highlands Reserve allow me to play golf here?

Highlands Reserve features an on-site golf course. Guests staying in the community can arrange tee times and play, although this is not included with villa rental and green fees apply.

How far is Highlands Reserve from Walt Disney World Resort, Universal, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens?

Highlands Reserve is well located for visiting Central Florida attractions. Walt Disney World Resort is typically around 20 to 25 minutes away depending on traffic, Universal Orlando Resort is usually around 35 to 40 minutes away, SeaWorld Orlando is generally about 30 to 35 minutes by car, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is typically around 60 to 65 minutes away. Travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions.

Where is Highlands Reserve?

Highlands Reserve is located in Davenport, just off Highway 27 and close to Highway 192. This provides access to the main road network connecting Orlando’s theme parks, shopping areas and attractions.

Are there supermarkets, restaurants and shops near Highlands Reserve?

Yes, Highlands Reserve is well positioned for nearby amenities. A supermarket and a selection of restaurants can be found within a few minutes at Berry Town Center, located close to the entrance to the community. Additional shops and dining options are available along Highway 192 within 10 to 15 minutes. Larger shopping destinations include Disney Springs at around 25 to 30 minutes, Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets at approximately 25 minutes and The Florida Mall at around 40 to 45 minutes.

Is Highlands Reserve good for day trips?

Yes, Highlands Reserve is a practical base for exploring Central Florida. Its location near Highway 27 and Highway 192 allows access to theme parks, shopping centres and both coasts. Cocoa Beach is typically around 90 minutes away by car.

Are villas on Highlands Reserve air-conditioned?

Yes, all holiday villas on Highlands Reserve include air conditioning in the main living areas and bedrooms.

Is traffic around Highlands Reserve likely to be an issue?

Traffic can build up on Highway 27 and nearby junctions, particularly during peak travel times. However, the location generally allows steady access to the main routes towards the theme parks.

What are the car parking arrangements like when staying on Highlands Reserve?

Vacation villas on Highlands Reserve have private driveways for parking directly outside the property, often accommodating multiple vehicles. Community guidelines apply, and larger vehicles such as motorhomes, trailers or commercial vehicles are generally not permitted for extended parking.

Do villas on Highlands Reserve have Wi-Fi and is it fast?

All vacation homes on Highlands Reserve provide complimentary Wi-Fi, suitable for browsing, streaming and video calls. Speeds can vary depending on the individual property and provider.

How does trash collection work on Highlands Reserve?

Trash collection on Highlands Reserve is typically handled through scheduled curbside pick-up. Guests are required to place bagged rubbish in the appropriate bins on designated collection days in line with local guidelines. Full details will be provided in each villa.

What facilities and amenities are available on Highlands Reserve?

Highlands Reserve offers a limited range of shared facilities compared with resort-style communities. These include a small communal swimming pool, tennis courts and a children’s play area. There are no large clubhouse complexes or water park-style amenities.

Do Highlands Reserve guests have full access to amenities?

Guests staying in holiday villas on Highlands Reserve have access to the communal facilities such as the pool and play area.

Are there any resort fees to pay at Highlands Reserve?

Highlands Reserve does not charge resort fees for guests staying in privately owned holiday villas.

Is Highlands Reserve a gated resort?

No, Highlands Reserve is not a gated community. It is an open residential-style development.

Are there queues at the gate at Highlands Reserve?

As Highlands Reserve is not gated, there are no entrance queues or gate access procedures.

What are the resort entry requirements at Highlands Reserve?

There are no gate entry requirements. Guests can access the community directly and will receive details for their individual property prior to arrival.

Is Highlands Reserve safe for families?

Highlands Reserve is generally regarded as a safe and family-friendly community. Its residential setting and quieter atmosphere make it a popular choice for families.

Do we need to hire a car when staying at Highlands Reserve? Are Uber and taxis available?

Uber and taxis are available in the area. However, car hire is strongly recommended for convenience when visiting theme parks, supermarkets and restaurants, as public transport options are limited.

Is Highlands Reserve suitable for children?

Highlands Reserve is suitable for families with children, particularly those looking for a quieter environment. Facilities such as a small communal pool and play area are available, although there are fewer on-site attractions compared with larger resorts.

Are there quiet hours or community rules at Highlands Reserve?

Yes, Highlands Reserve operates community guidelines to maintain a respectful residential environment. Quiet hours are typically observed from around 10pm to 7am.

Does Highlands Reserve get good reviews from guests?

Highlands Reserve generally receives positive reviews, particularly for its spacious villas, golf course setting and quieter atmosphere.

Are there any common complaints about Highlands Reserve?

Most feedback about Highlands Reserve is positive. Some guests note that it is an older community compared with newer resorts and that it does not offer the same level of resort-style amenities.

Is Highlands Reserve good value for money?

Highlands Reserve is often considered good value, particularly for guests looking for private villas, more space and a quieter setting at a competitive price point.

Additional questions customers often ask

Is Highlands Reserve closer to Disney than other resorts?

Highlands Reserve is slightly further from Walt Disney World Resort than some Kissimmee communities but still offers reasonable drive times of around 20 to 25 minutes.

Can groceries and food deliveries be arranged to Highlands Reserve?

Yes, major supermarkets and food delivery services operate in the area and can deliver directly to your holiday villa. This includes grocery deliveries and takeaway meals, with services such as Uber Eats and DoorDash available.

Is there public transport from Highlands Reserve to the parks?

Public transport options are limited and not particularly convenient for direct access to the theme parks. Most guests rely on car hire or ride-sharing services.

Can I go fishing on Highlands Reserve?

There are no lakes on Highlands Reserve.

Is there a shuttle service from Highlands Reserve to the theme parks?

Highlands Reserve does not offer a shuttle service to the theme parks. Transport is usually by car or ride-sharing services.

Where can I book vacation villas in Highlands Reserve?

You can explore a range of Highlands Reserve holiday villas to suit your Orlando holiday. Availability, size and features vary, so it is important to compare options to find the most suitable property.

To Summarise

Highlands Reserve is an established golf community in Davenport offering a selection of detached Orlando holiday villas in a quieter, residential-style setting. Its larger plots, golf course surroundings and convenient access to the theme parks make it a popular choice for those seeking a more relaxed Orlando villa holiday without the feel of a busy resort.