Solstice at Wellen Park: A Premier Gated Community in Southwest Florida

Solstice at Wellen Park offers Florida homebuyers an exceptional lifestyle with resort-style amenities, diverse home options starting in the $400s, and access to A-rated schools. This gated community, developed by Toll Brothers, features smartly designed homes ranging from 1,500 to 3,000+ square feet, located just minutes from Gulf Coast beaches, downtown Venice, and the vibrant Wellen Park town center.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solstice at Wellen Park

What makes Solstice at Wellen Park special?

Solstice stands out as a premium gated community within the award-winning Wellen Park master-planned development. It features resort-style amenities including a pool with lap lanes, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, and social spaces. The community's strategic location provides easy access to beaches, downtown Venice, and Interstate 75, while offering the security and exclusivity of a gated neighborhood.

What types of homes are available in Solstice?

Solstice offers a diverse selection of housing options from Toll Brothers, including one and two-story villas and single-family homes. The community features three distinct home collections (Sunbeam, Sunrise, and Sunset) with floor plans ranging from approximately 1,500 to over 3,000 square feet. All homes include smart home features and two-car garages, with designs featuring 2-4 bedrooms.

How much do homes cost in Solstice at Wellen Park?

As of April 2024, villas in Solstice start in the low to mid-$400s, while single-family homes begin in the $500,000-$600,000 range. The community has a CDD fee ranging from $700 to $2,500 annually depending on the home type, plus an HOA fee of approximately $270-$320 monthly that includes community ground maintenance and reclaimed water irrigation.

What schools serve Solstice at Wellen Park?

Solstice is zoned for some of the area's highest-rated schools: Taylor Ranch Elementary School, Venice Middle School, and Venice High School. These schools are known for their academic excellence and provide quality education options for families with children.

What amenities are available to Solstice residents?

Residents enjoy premium amenities including a resort-style pool with lap lanes, a modern clubhouse with fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, a catering kitchen, tot lot for children, social hall, and yoga and event lawns. Additionally, residents have access to all Wellen Park amenities, including the downtown district, hiking trails, and lake with kayak launch.

Understanding Solstice at Wellen Park: Location and Community Overview

Solstice represents one of the newest and most appealing residential options within the rapidly expanding Wellen Park development. Strategically positioned between Venice and North Port in Southwest Florida, this gated community offers an ideal balance of accessibility and exclusivity that many Florida homebuyers seek.

Perfect Location for Florida Living

Solstice enjoys a prime position within Wellen Park, situated just south of the downtown district between Preto Boulevard and Manasota Beach Road. This location provides residents with:

  • Approximately 20-minute drive to Gulf Coast beaches
  • Easy access to Interstate 75 for regional travel
  • Quick drive to historic downtown Venice
  • Reasonable commuting distance to Sarasota, Fort Myers, and St. Petersburg
  • Proximity to the new Wellen Park Downtown with restaurants and entertainment
  • Access to outdoor recreation including lakes, trails, and parks

The community's strategic location between the established charm of Venice and the growing opportunities of North Port gives residents the perfect blend of established amenities and exciting future development. As this region of Southwest Florida continues to grow in popularity, Solstice offers a chance to establish roots in one of the area's most promising locations.

Wellen Park: One of Florida's Fastest-Growing Master-Planned Communities

To truly understand the appeal of Solstice, it's important to appreciate its place within the larger Wellen Park development. Wellen Park has quickly established itself as one of the most sought-after master-planned communities in Florida, and for good reason.

The master-planned community features:

  • A vibrant new Downtown City Center with restaurants and retail
  • An 80-acre lake with scenic hiking trails
  • Kayak launch for water recreation
  • Daily community events and entertainment spaces
  • Modern playground facilities for families with children
  • Expanding infrastructure including new schools and shopping

Recent additions to the area include a new Costco and schools, enhancing the convenience for residents. The thoughtful planning behind Wellen Park creates an environment where everything needed for daily living is easily accessible, while still maintaining a connection to nature and Florida's outdoor lifestyle.

Solstice Community Details: A Closer Look

Developed by renowned builder Toll Brothers, Solstice represents quality craftsmanship in a carefully planned setting. The community's design prioritizes both privacy and connection, offering residents a secure gated environment while facilitating access to all that Wellen Park has to offer.

Community Development Timeline

Solstice is relatively new to the Wellen Park landscape, with construction beginning in 2021. The community plan includes 270 total homes comprising a mix of:

  • One-story villas
  • Two-story villas
  • Single-family homes

As a newer development, Solstice offers homebuyers the opportunity to purchase either move-in ready properties or to customize new construction to their specific preferences. The community remains under active development, with new phases opening periodically.

For prospective buyers interested in seeing the community firsthand, Toll Brothers maintains four model homes and a sales center on-site. These professionally decorated models showcase the different collections and floor plans available, allowing visitors to envision their future lifestyle at Solstice.

Educational Opportunities for Families

Families with children will appreciate that Solstice is zoned for some of the area's most respected schools:

  • Taylor Ranch Elementary School: Known for strong academic programs and community involvement
  • Venice Middle School: Offers comprehensive educational and extracurricular activities
  • Venice High School: Provides college preparatory education and diverse athletic programs

These Sarasota County schools have built strong reputations for academic excellence, giving parents confidence in their children's educational opportunities.

Beyond traditional public schools, the greater Wellen Park and Venice area offers additional educational options including private schools and specialized programs, providing families with choices to fit their children's specific needs.

Exceptional Amenities: Resort-Style Living at Solstice

One of the most compelling aspects of Solstice is its comprehensive amenity package that delivers the resort-style living experience many Florida homebuyers desire. The community's amenities are designed to promote an active, social lifestyle while providing spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Neighborhood-Specific Amenities

Solstice residents enjoy exclusive access to a wide range of on-site amenities that include:

  • Resort-style swimming pool with lap lanes: Perfect for exercise or relaxation
  • Modern clubhouse and amenity center: The social hub of the community
  • Fully-equipped fitness center: State-of-the-art exercise equipment
  • Tennis and pickleball courts: For sports enthusiasts of all skill levels
  • Catering kitchen: Ideal for community events and private gatherings
  • Tot lot playground: Designed with children's safety and enjoyment in mind
  • Social hall: For community meetings and events
  • Yoga and event lawns: Outdoor spaces for fitness and gatherings

These amenities create opportunities for residents to maintain active lifestyles while building connections with neighbors and fostering a strong sense of community.

Access to Wellen Park Amenities

Beyond the neighborhood-specific offerings, Solstice residents also enjoy full access to the broader amenities of Wellen Park, including:

  • Downtown Wellen with dining, shopping, and entertainment
  • 80-acre lake with scenic trails
  • Community events and festivals
  • Kayak launch for water recreation
  • Expanding retail and service options

Regional Attractions Within Easy Reach

The strategic location of Solstice also puts residents within easy reach of numerous regional attractions:

  • Gulf Coast Beaches: Multiple world-class beaches within a short drive
  • CoolToday Park: Spring training home of the Atlanta Braves
  • Downtown Venice: Historic district with shopping and dining
  • Golf Courses: Several championship courses in the vicinity
  • Cultural Attractions: Theaters, museums, and galleries in nearby Sarasota
  • Natural Areas: Preserves and parks for outdoor recreation

This combination of community-specific amenities, Wellen Park features, and regional attractions ensures that Solstice residents have endless options for recreation, entertainment, and everyday living.

Home Options at Solstice: Designs for Every Lifestyle

Toll Brothers has created a diverse collection of home designs at Solstice, ensuring options for various lifestyles, family sizes, and preferences. The thoughtful floor plans and quality construction represent the builder's commitment to creating homes that combine aesthetic appeal with functional living spaces.

Three Distinct Home Collections

Solstice features three separate home collections, each offering unique characteristics while maintaining the community's overall design aesthetic:

  1. Sunbeam Collection
  2. Sunrise Collection
  3. Sunset Collection

Within these collections, prospective buyers will find numerous floor plans varying in size, layout, and features. This diversity ensures that most homebuyers will find options that suit their specific needs and preferences.

Size and Features

Homes at Solstice range in size from approximately 1,500 square feet to over 3,000 square feet, accommodating various family sizes and lifestyle needs. Key features include:

  • Bedrooms: 2-4 bedrooms depending on the floor plan
  • Garages: All homes include two-car garages
  • Smart Home Technology: Standard features include keyless front door locks, Wi-Fi thermostats, and Wi-Fi garage control
  • Open Floor Plans: Contemporary designs that maximize living space and natural light
  • Quality Construction: Toll Brothers' reputation for craftsmanship is evident throughout

The villas offer lower-maintenance living options while still providing comfortable space and privacy. Single-family homes offer more square footage and enhanced privacy for those seeking larger living spaces.

Model Homes Available for Tours

Currently, four professionally decorated model homes are available for tours at Solstice. These models showcase different floor plans and design options, allowing prospective buyers to experience the quality and lifestyle offered within the community.

Visiting the models provides valuable insights into the potential of each home type and helps buyers envision how they might personalize their own Solstice residence.

Investment Considerations: Pricing and Value at Solstice

Investing in a home at Solstice represents not just a lifestyle choice but also a significant financial decision. Understanding the costs involved is essential for prospective buyers evaluating this opportunity.

Home Pricing Structure

As of April 2024, homes at Solstice are priced as follows:

  • Villas: Starting in the low to mid-$400s
  • Single-Family Homes: Starting in the $500,000 to $600,000 range and up

These base prices typically include standard features, with optional upgrades and premium lots available at additional cost. As with most new construction communities, prices may adjust based on market conditions, availability, and included features.

Community Fees and Assessments

Residents at Solstice are responsible for two primary community fees:

  1. Community Development District (CDD) Fee:

    • Ranges from approximately $700 to $2,500 annually
    • Varies based on home type and lot size
    • Typically included in property tax bills
  2. Homeowners Association (HOA) Fee:

    • Ranges from approximately $270 to $320 monthly
    • Includes community ground maintenance
    • Covers reclaimed water irrigation
    • Maintains common areas and amenities

These fees contribute to maintaining the community's high standards and amenities, preserving property values and the overall appeal of Solstice.

Value Proposition

While considering these costs, it's important to evaluate the overall value proposition that Solstice offers:

  • New Construction: Modern designs, energy efficiency, and minimal initial maintenance
  • Resort Amenities: Extensive community features included in the HOA fees
  • Gated Security: Enhanced privacy and security
  • Prime Location: Convenient access to beaches, shopping, dining, and transportation
  • Wellen Park Growth: Potential for appreciation as the master-planned community continues to develop

For many buyers, particularly those relocating from higher-cost markets in the Northeast or West Coast, Solstice represents an attractive value proposition despite the associated fees.

Living in Solstice: The Lifestyle Experience

Beyond the physical homes and amenities, what truly sets Solstice apart is the lifestyle it offers residents. The community is designed to facilitate connections, recreation, and engagement with both neighbors and the natural beauty of Southwest Florida.

Community Atmosphere

As a newer community, Solstice is actively building its unique character and social fabric. The thoughtful design of amenity spaces encourages interaction among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Many new residents are relocating from other states, creating a diverse mix of backgrounds and experiences.

Recreation and Wellness

The emphasis on active living is evident throughout Solstice, with amenities that support physical wellness and outdoor enjoyment:

  • Swimming pool for exercise and relaxation
  • Fitness center with modern equipment
  • Sports courts for tennis and pickleball
  • Yoga lawns for outdoor fitness
  • Walking trails for daily exercise
  • Proximity to Gulf Coast beaches for water activities

This focus on wellness aligns with many homebuyers' desires for healthier lifestyles in Florida's favorable climate.

Convenience and Accessibility

The strategic location of Solstice creates convenience for daily living:

  • Expanding shopping options nearby, including a new Costco
  • Easy access to Interstate 75 for regional travel
  • Proximity to healthcare facilities
  • Growing dining options in Wellen Park and Venice
  • Short drive to Venice Municipal Airport
  • Reasonable distance to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport for larger travel needs

This combination of on-site amenities and regional accessibility makes Solstice a practical choice for both full-time residents and seasonal visitors.

The Future of Solstice and Wellen Park

As a relatively new development within the rapidly growing Wellen Park master plan, Solstice stands to benefit from the continued expansion and enhancement of the surrounding area. Understanding the trajectory of both the neighborhood and the larger development provides important context for potential buyers.

Ongoing Development

Solstice remains under active development, with new phases opening as earlier sections are completed and sold. This phased approach allows for controlled growth while maintaining community standards and character.

Wellen Park Expansion

The larger Wellen Park development continues to evolve, with new amenities, services, and infrastructure regularly being added. Recent and planned additions include:

  • Expansion of the Downtown Wellen district
  • New schools to serve the growing population
  • Additional retail and service businesses
  • Enhanced recreational facilities
  • Improved transportation infrastructure

As Wellen Park continues its planned growth, Solstice residents will benefit from these expanded offerings while maintaining their exclusive gated community environment.

Long-Term Outlook

The Southwest Florida region, particularly the Venice-North Port area, has seen consistent growth and demand in recent years. Factors contributing to the positive long-term outlook include:

  • Florida's continued population growth, especially from out-of-state relocations
  • The appeal of master-planned communities with comprehensive amenities
  • Limited developable land near Florida's coastline
  • Strong tourism industry supporting local economies
  • Relatively affordable housing compared to many Northern and Western markets

These factors suggest that communities like Solstice in desirable master-planned developments like Wellen Park may continue to see strong demand for the foreseeable future.

Is Solstice at Wellen Park Right for You?

While Solstice offers an appealing package of location, amenities, and housing options, determining whether it's the right fit requires careful consideration of your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle goals.

Ideal for:

  • Active Adults: The resort amenities and low-maintenance options appeal to those seeking an active Florida lifestyle
  • Families: Quality schools and family-friendly features make Solstice attractive for households with children
  • Relocation Buyers: Those moving from out-of-state will appreciate the comprehensive amenities and convenience
  • New Construction Enthusiasts: Buyers who value modern design and the ability to select finishes and features
  • Security-Conscious Buyers: The gated entrance provides enhanced privacy and security

Considerations:

  • Community Fees: The combined HOA and CDD fees represent a significant monthly expense
  • New Community Dynamics: As a newer development, community traditions and social networks are still evolving
  • Ongoing Construction: Parts of both Solstice and Wellen Park remain under development
  • Distance to Major Cities: While accessible, major metropolitan areas like Tampa and Fort Myers are still a drive away
  • Hurricane Vulnerability: Like all Florida coastal areas, storm preparation is an important consideration

Taking time to visit Solstice, tour the models, experience the amenities, and explore the surrounding area is the best way to determine if this community aligns with your vision for Florida living.

How to Learn More About Solstice at Wellen Park

If Solstice sounds like it might be the right fit for your Florida lifestyle, several resources are available to help you gather more information and take the next steps:

  • Visit the Model Homes: Tour the four model homes to experience the floor plans and design options firsthand
  • Explore the Amenities: See the community pool, clubhouse, and other facilities that contribute to the Solstice lifestyle
  • Drive the Surrounding Area: Get a feel for the location's convenience by visiting nearby beaches, downtown Venice, and Wellen Park's downtown district
  • Speak with Current Residents: If possible, connect with people already living in Solstice to gain insights into the community experience
  • Consult with a Real Estate Professional: Work with an agent familiar with Wellen Park to understand current availability, pricing, and options

Taking these steps will provide a comprehensive understanding of what Solstice offers and whether it aligns with your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Solstice as a Premier Wellen Park Option

Solstice represents an attractive option within the highly regarded Wellen Park master-planned community. With its combination of quality Toll Brothers construction, extensive amenities, and prime location near Gulf Coast beaches and Venice attractions, the neighborhood offers a compelling package for many Florida homebuyers.

The community's varied home options accommodate different preferences and budgets, while the gated security and resort amenities create an elevated lifestyle experience. As both Solstice and the larger Wellen Park continue to develop, residents stand to benefit from expanding offerings and the area's overall growth.

For those seeking new construction in a thoughtfully designed community with comprehensive amenities and convenient access to Southwest Florida's attractions, Solstice at Wellen Park deserves serious consideration.

Ready to Explore Solstice at Wellen Park?

If you're considering relocating to Solstice at Wellen Park or anywhere else on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, the Zachos Realty & Design Group is here to help. With over 40 years of local expertise and a unique combination of real estate knowledge and award-winning design vision, we can help you find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle needs.

Contact us today:

  • Phone: 941-500-5457
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Sarasota Office: 205 N Orange Ave Suite 202, Sarasota, Florida 34236
  • Venice Office: 217 Nassau St S, Venice, FL 34285

Visit our YouTube channel "Relocation Experts | Florida's Gulf Coast" for more insider guides to Florida's Gulf Coast communities.

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