Start early. In Central Florida, the good part of the day happens before 11 a.m., especially May through September. Weekend pickup is built around that — grab your bread first, then go.
Seminole State Forest is right off SR 46 and is the best-kept secret in the area. Sandhill trails, pine flatwoods, and a real chance of seeing gopher tortoises. Bring water; bring more water than you think.
From there, a 20-minute drive puts you in downtown Mount Dora for coffee, antique shops, and lake views. Loop back through Eustis or Tavares if you want lakefront time.
The right lunch is a cutting board: a jalapeño cheddar sourdough loaf, sharp cheese, tomatoes from a roadside stand, and cold drinks. Nothing to cook, nothing to clean.
Get home by mid-afternoon. The storms show up on schedule, and there's no better place to be than a porch in Sorrento with the rain going and the last of a warm loaf on the table.