El tequendamita
1 / 10

El Retiro Pinewood Estate

4.8
·122 reviews·Lake Wales, United States

Step back in time at El Retiro Pinewood Estate, a beautifully preserved 1930s mansion showcasing exquisite Mediterranean architecture and period furni...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
El tequendamita

El Retiro Pinewood Estate

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at El Retiro Pinewood Estate, a beautifully preserved 1930s mansion showcasing exquisite Mediterranean architecture and period furnishings.

4.8
(122 reviews)

"A beautiful glimpse into 1930s affluent living with stunning architecture and preserved details."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Indoor Tour Times

The indoor tour closes around 4 PM, so double-check the schedule to avoid disappointment! :clock1:

Budget for Admission

Factor in the separate house tour fee after Bok Tower Gardens admission. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Throughout the Estate

Marvel at the Mediterranean-style architecture and exquisite craftsmanship of this 1930s estate.

Period Furnishings

Period Furnishings

Interior Rooms

Step back in time with beautifully preserved original furniture and decor in every room.

Tranquil Gardens

Tranquil Gardens

Surrounding Gardens

Wander through immaculately maintained gardens that complement the beauty of the estate.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to El Retiro

El Retiro Pinewood Estate offers a glimpse into 1930s affluent living. Consider booking your tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. Check the closing times for the indoor tour, as they can vary and you wouldn't want to miss it like some visitors have! Reddit

Budgeting for Your Experience

While El Retiro is a stunning architectural gem, be aware that there's an additional fee for the house tour after the Bok Tower Gardens admission. This can make it a bit pricey for those on a tight budget or traveling in large groups. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (before 4 PM)
Why
Catch the indoor tour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

6 days in Madrid Itinerary (any recommendations are greatly appreciated)

Check Indoor Tour Times

The indoor tour closes around 4 PM, so double-check the schedule to avoid disappointment! Reddit :clock1:

Budget for Admission

Factor in the separate house tour fee after Bok Tower Gardens admission. Reddit :moneybag:

reddit.com

First time in Spain

Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the well-maintained gardens surrounding the house; they're a delight to walk through. :deciduous_tree:

Engage with Docents

Docents in rooms offer valuable insights and answer questions about the estate's history. :speaking_head:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Indoor Tour Times

The indoor tour closes around 4 PM, so double-check the schedule to avoid disappointment! Reddit :clock1:

Budget for Admission

Factor in the separate house tour fee after Bok Tower Gardens admission. Reddit :moneybag:

Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the well-maintained gardens surrounding the house; they're a delight to walk through. :deciduous_tree:

Engage with Docents

Docents in rooms offer valuable insights and answer questions about the estate's history. :speaking_head:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(122 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the exquisite Mediterranean architecture and the beautifully preserved 1930s furnishings at El Retiro Pinewood Estate. The self-guided tour, with helpful docents, allows for an immersive experience into a past era of affluence. While the additional cost after Bok Tower Gardens admission is noted, many find the well-maintained gardens and the historical insights to be well worth the visit.

"If you love architecture and craftsmanship details, you will really enjoy this essentially self guided tour. This home on the grounds of Bok Tower Gardens shows what it would have been like to live here as a wealthy person in the 1930s. There are docents in different rooms who will offer tidbits of info and answer questions, but you are free to take as much time as you want in each room. There are informational displays in each room and you get a booklet on arrival with information about each room. I really loved the tour, but if you are on a budget or have
a large group, it is a bit pricey since you pay extra after paying to get in to Bok."

Erin Edwards

"Great place to take you back in time, with this house tour! How beautiful it is, and well thought by the owner who built it. Love the big doors, kitchen, the rooms and the floors! The bathrooms are spacious, from way back! Enjoy!!
Don’t miss visiting the Bok tower too!"

Melinda S.

"lovely. keep in mind the indoor tour closes at 4 i believe. just double check so u don’t miss it like i did lol"

ash

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Preserved furnishings
Tranquil gardens

What People Dislike

Additional admission fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

El Retiro Pinewood Estate is located on the grounds of Bok Tower Gardens. You'll need to drive to Bok Tower Gardens and then follow signs for El Retiro. Parking is available at Bok Tower Gardens. Reddit

Public transport options to Bok Tower Gardens are limited. It is generally recommended to have your own vehicle or use a ride-sharing service to reach the estate. Reddit

Navigate to Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, FL. El Retiro Pinewood Estate is a specific tour within the gardens. Consult Bok Tower Gardens' official website for the most accurate driving directions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, in addition to the admission fee for Bok Tower Gardens, there is a separate fee for the El Retiro Pinewood Estate house tour. Reddit

The indoor tour at El Retiro typically closes around 4 PM. It's crucial to check the official Bok Tower Gardens website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for El Retiro. Reddit

Tickets for Bok Tower Gardens and its associated tours, including El Retiro, can usually be purchased online in advance through the Bok Tower Gardens website. This is recommended to secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

The tour of El Retiro Pinewood Estate is essentially self-guided, with docents available in different rooms to offer information and answer questions. You are free to explore at your own pace. Reddit

The cost includes the Bok Tower Gardens admission fee plus an additional fee for the El Retiro house tour. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Bok Tower Gardens website for current pricing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While exterior and garden photography is generally encouraged, check with the docents or signage inside the house regarding interior photography rules. Reddit

The Mediterranean architecture, the grand doors, spacious bathrooms, and the surrounding gardens offer excellent photo opportunities. Capture the details of the craftsmanship. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While El Retiro itself is a historic home, Bok Tower Gardens typically has a cafe or dining area where visitors can purchase refreshments. Check Bok Tower Gardens' website for current food service availability. Reddit

Picnicking rules usually apply to designated areas within Bok Tower Gardens. It's best to check the garden's policies regarding outside food and beverages. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While El Retiro Pinewood Estate offers a historical and architectural experience, it might be more engaging for older children or teens who can appreciate the details of the past. The self-guided nature allows families to move at their own pace, which can be helpful with younger children. However, the additional cost for the house tour might be a consideration for families on a budget. Reddit

Focus on the beautiful gardens surrounding the estate as a more universally appealing aspect for younger visitors. Encourage them to look for interesting plants or features. The grand doors and spacious rooms might also capture their imagination. Remember to check the closing times for the indoor tour to manage expectations. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, El Retiro Pinewood Estate presents a slight challenge due to its additional admission fee on top of the Bok Tower Gardens entry. If you're looking to maximize your experience without significant extra cost, you might prioritize exploring the stunning Bok Tower and its extensive gardens, which are included in the main admission. Reddit

However, if your budget allows, the tour offers a unique insight into historical architecture and craftsmanship. Consider it a worthwhile splurge if you have a particular interest in 1930s estates. Always check the latest pricing on the Bok Tower Gardens website to plan accordingly. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of El Retiro

El Retiro Pinewood Estate is a testament to the Mediterranean Revival architectural style, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and design from the 1930s. Visitors consistently praise the beautiful Mediterranean style architecture and the well-preserved original furniture that transports them back in time. The estate features grand doors, spacious bathrooms, and meticulously detailed rooms, offering a rich visual experience for architecture enthusiasts. Reddit

This estate provides an intimate look into the lifestyle of the wealthy during that era. The self-guided tour, enhanced by knowledgeable docents in various rooms, allows visitors to absorb the details at their own pace. The informational displays and provided booklets further enrich the understanding of each room's significance and the home's history. Reddit

The attention to detail in both the interior design and the surrounding gardens makes El Retiro a truly special place. It's not just a house tour; it's an immersion into a bygone era of elegance and refined living. Reddit

Experiencing El Retiro and Bok Tower Gardens

El Retiro Pinewood Estate is an integral part of the larger Bok Tower Gardens experience. Many visitors find that they enjoy El Retiro almost as much as the renowned Bok Tower itself. The gardens surrounding the house are as meticulously maintained as the estate's interiors, offering a serene and beautiful environment for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

It's important to note that visiting El Retiro involves an additional cost beyond the general admission to Bok Tower Gardens. This has been mentioned by some visitors as a factor to consider, especially for those on a budget or traveling with larger groups. However, for those who appreciate history, architecture, and a glimpse into opulent living, the combined experience is highly rewarding. Reddit

When planning your visit, remember that the indoor tour of El Retiro has specific closing times, often around 4 PM. Confirming these hours beforehand is crucial to ensure you don't miss out on exploring the interior of this magnificent estate. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2