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Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly

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Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Smart TV, books, offices, printers
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8186 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Dunnellon, FL
  • Place, Lake Rousseau
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Place, Rainbow River
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Rainbow Springs State Park
    ‪12 min drive‬

Room options

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About the area

Citrus Springs

Located in Citrus Springs, this vacation home is on the waterfront, a 1-minute drive from Lake Rousseau and 10 minutes from Rainbow River. .This family-friendly vacation home is 12.7 mi (20.4 km) from Three Sisters Springs and 6.3 mi (10.1 km) from Blue Run of Dunnellon Park.
View more Holiday homes in Citrus SpringsOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Rousseau - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Rainbow River - 9 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Rainbow Springs State Park - 12 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Three Sisters Springs - 22 min drive - 22.9 km
  • World Equestrian Center – Ocala - 31 min drive - 45.1 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Sparrow's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Loft - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Ellianos Coffee - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly

Calming Cove Retreat on Lake Rousseau

Welcome to Calming Cove Retreat — a tranquil, beautifully maintained waterfront home that’s earned over 100 five-star reviews for its comfort, cleanliness, and unforgettable charm. Nestled in a cove on the shores of Lake Rousseau, this fully stocked, pet-friendly, and handicap-accessible home offers the perfect mix of luxury and nature.

What Makes This Property Stand Out

• More than 100 Five-Star Reviews – Consistently praised for comfort, cleanliness, and peaceful surroundings
• Heated Private Spa/Mini Pool – In an inside lanai perfect for relaxing year-round
• Fully Handicap Accessible – Step-free entry, wide doors, accessible showers, and ramp to gardens
• High-Speed WiFi (400 Mbps) – Great for remote work, school, and streaming
• Three Comfortable Bedrooms + Private Office – Sleeps 8 with space to spread out
• Pet-Friendly – Up to two dogs under 50 lbs
• Private Dock + 5 Kayaks – Direct lake access for fishing or paddling
• Enhanced Cleanliness – Electrostatic HVAC + UV virus filtering system
• Fully Stocked Kitchen – Reverse osmosis water, spices, organic coffee, cookware, gadgets
• Games and Outdoor Fun – Horseshoes, cornhole, board games, hammock, fire pits
• Spectacular Gardens and Lake Views – Multiple seating areas to relax and recharge

Sleeping Arrangements

Master Suite:
- King bed, walk-in closet, lakeview sitting area, ensuite bath with soaking tub and double shower

Guest Room 1:
- Queen bed, closet, access to full guest bath

Guest Room 2:
- Two twin beds, ideal for children or additional guests

Great Room:
- Queen sleeper sofa, Smart TV, open to kitchen and dining area

Private Office/Library:
- Desk, recliner, bookshelves, can be closed off for privacy

Kitchen, Dining, and Living

The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking and entertaining, with a cooking island, butcher block prep station, reverse osmosis water system, new appliances, and all cookware provided. Organic coffee, charcoal, spices, and cleaning supplies are included. Dining and living areas flow openly for easy gathering and comfort.

Outdoor Living

Step into a 37-ft screened lanai with a tiki bar and dining for 8.
Relax in the heated, fenced spa/mini pool.
Enjoy the hammock, shaded gardens, grilling patio, and fire pits.
Launch from your private dock using one of the 5 included kayaks.
Watch the birds and butterflies in the peaceful, beautifully landscaped yard.

Location and Nearby Attractions

• Rainbow Springs State Park (15 minutes) – Florida’s #1-rated spring
• Crystal River (20 minutes) – Manatee tours, scalloping, charming downtown
• Homosassa Wildlife Park – Alligator and manatee viewing, local wildlife
• Devil’s Den – Snorkeling and scuba diving in a prehistoric spring cave
• Blue Run Trail – Biking and walking trail near Dunnellon
• Ocala Horse Farms – Guided tours and scenic drives

Boating and Fishing Info

• Max boat size: 19 feet (center console)
• Dock depth: 4–5 feet
• Closest public ramp: Goldendale Boat Ramp (2.3 miles)
• Calm, scenic water – perfect for fishing or paddling
• Note: No saltwater access from this location

Guest Experience and Policies

• Contact-free check-in and check-out
• Relaxed cancellation policy
• Discounts available for long-term stays
• Two-night buffer between guests for added cleanliness
• All linens, towels, and laundry supplies provided
• Washer and dryer available on-site

What Our Guests Say

“The best rental we've ever stayed in. Every single detail was thoughtful and made us feel at home.”
“Extremely clean, beautifully landscaped, and so relaxing. We didn’t want to leave.”
“This is what every vacation rental should strive to be.”

Ready to Relax?

Whether you're planning a family vacation, a couple’s retreat, a work-from-anywhere escape, or a long-term stay, Calming Cove Retreat delivers a five-star experience from the moment you arrive.

This lakeside haven fills quickly — reserve your dates today and discover why it’s become a guest favorite on Florida’s Nature Coast.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, which features a private pool and a Smart TV. There's a private patio. A kitchen is outfitted with a refrigerator, an oven, and a stovetop. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected.
Take advantage of recreational opportunities offered, including a water park, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Heated pool
  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Kitchenette
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office
  • Printer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • Up to 23 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Front entrance ramp
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Heated pool
  • Kayak
  • Water park
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 2,000 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 28

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds, gather used towels, and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs and cats only
2 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 111 out of 113 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 113 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 113 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 113 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 113 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Andrea R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Thank you to Jennifer and Mike for lending us their beautiful river home for the weekend. Extremely well-kept and abundant with beautiful views, wildlife, and activities. The hosts were so accommodating and easy to reach whenever needed. They also left really helpful tips and reminders all around the house that served us very well. Absolutely incredible stay and couldn't have had a better time anywhere else. My only regret is forgetting to leave a handwritten message in their guest book. Hope to be able to come back and stay here again! Highly recommend!!
View from master bedroom window.
View of the house from the dock.
Beautiful river.
Dinner at home!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patty A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Jennifer’s place is truly a little slice of heaven!! The pictures are completely accurate, but there’s also such a chill vibe to this place that you feel the instant you get there! The home was immaculate, the kitchen was very well stocked, it had everything we could imagine. The beds were comfortable. We took the kayaks out twice, and built a fire in the awesome fire globe. The dock is so inviting. You can’t help but feel relaxed on this property!We have twins (boy/girl) who turned 14 while we were there. There is a lot to do nearby with kids. We tubed down the Rainbow River, played mini golf at Crystal River Mini Golf, escaped with the jewel at Crystal River Escape Room, and kayaked twice.Jennifer, we will be back! We want to explore the area even more!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beverly O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful house! Perfect house for a family vacation. We enjoyed the deck, the screened porch amnd the beautiful landscaping. I can not think of anything that was lacking. Highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

LISA W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Had a great stay, everything was labeled and had clear instructions which is very helpful. House and property were beautiful and would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

winni W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely beautiful. We got the chance to have a family vacation and truly relax. The view from the master bedroom is going to be missed. We had a great family trip, very thankful for that.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ronne D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Best hidden vacation gem

The backyard is tranquil, big, and peaceful. The house is very spacious. There is so much activity. The area is centrally located. We ventured out to Mt. Dora, St Pete’s, and Ocala and each had it’s own unique style. Rainbow River is almost around the corner with great swimming, tubing and kayaking. When you knocked yourself out you could come home to calming cove and take time to watch the birds. Everything you might need is thought of by Jennifer; from games, to barbecue, to spices, to nice dishes, and plenty of towels.. Jennifer also responded quickly to any communications. The only we’re sad about is that time flew by so quickly. Thank you Jennifer for making this a very enjoyable vacation.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Detlev A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Lakefront Property

My family recently stayed at this amazing property. My whole family loved it. It was totally as advertised and more. We found it very clean, very well equipped, roomy and beautiful. The host was excellent. There was an unexpected repair needed for the spa which the host fixed the next day! This location is also close to Dunnellon with convenient last minute shopping and riverside eateries. Don't forget to visit nearby Rainbow River Springs State park for picnic and swimming.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adriene T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely Lake House

We had a great week at this lovely lakeside retreat. There was room for our family to hang out comfortably together inside and outside. Everything we needed was provided and easy to find. The property is easy for folks with limited mobility to get around in, especially the primary bedroom and bathroom, which was so appreciated. Great birdwatching from the primary bedroom and the dock. Nicely maintained garden and lawn. Quiet neighborhood close to tons of local attractions. Jennifer is a wonderful host - she was easy to reach with any questions, friendly, helpful, and kind. I highly recommend this place!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amber B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Highlights of Florida's Wildlife

We had a relaxing retreat enjoying all of Florida's natural beauty. This was a great place for our family to stay as we explored the springs, viewed wildlife, played games, and enjoyed each other's company. The house was stocked with everything that we needed, and the hosts were wonderful with communication and meeting all of our needs. I would highly recommend this vacation home!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Short stay, but very enjoyable

Great property, very clean and well maintained a
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ronald B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend getaway

We had a wonderful time at the lake house the house was beautiful and spacious just as listed and the backyard and view were amazing. We went for my grandson 13th birthday he had so much fun kayaking and fishing and we went to the local springs . He also loved the spa/pool and spent a lot of time fishing from the dock. We had everything we needed and more beautiful home .Would love to return again one day for another long weekend. Jennifer was a great host answered all questions in a timely manner . Thank you so much .
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dano W.

Liked: Cleanliness

So beautiful that we got married there

Absolutely amazing!!! We enjoyed the view so much and we got married there. The house was amazing, everything is labeled and easy to find, and filtered water and R/O filtered water. We couldn't get enough of the lake and property, plenty of fish to see by the dock and to fish out of kayaks. We will be back.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Views

Relaxing time on the shores of Lake Rousseau. Views of the lake are great from most rooms of the house.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family Vacay

Wonderful, amazing, relaxing to stay or leave to play. Well stocked, very roomy.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Felicia F.

Liked: Cleanliness

AMAZING PROPERTY

We enjoyed our visit so much and hope to return in the future. The home is beautiful and the time spent making it cozy for guests is evident. We spent time on the dock, watching the birds from the master bedroom window and chilling, watching TV in the comfortable living room. You won't be disappointed if you are looking for a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tana W., Orange Park Florida

Liked: Cleanliness

Vacation Paradise

Had a great time! Home was well stocked with everything we needed and more. Great view of the beautiful yard and lake. We enjoyed birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, grilling and relaxing. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peggy Y.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful retreat

Immensely enjoyed our 5 week stay at Calming Cove. The home is immaculate and well stocked. I must say as a frequent renter, Jennifer and Mike thought of everything and it is now ranked as my favorite of all time. The home and grounds are beautiful and we were lucky to have fabulous weather. Being at the elder end of the scale, we did not partake in use of all the toys but there is fun for all ages. And my aching back certainly appreciated the heated pool/spa. We also fell in love with the area in and around Dunnellon and look forward to our return to Calming Cove in 2026. Best recommendation I can give is to rebook and we have already done that. Thank you Jennifer and Mike!!
Stayed 33 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Staycation Heaven

This property was the most organized one we have ever stayed at. It was stocked with everything you could need. The furniture and bedding were very good and the outside property was also done well. It was too cold to enjoy kayaking on the lake, but we plan on coming back when the weather is better.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tricia Y.

Liked: Cleanliness

Holiday vacation

We had a wonderful time. Location was perfect for hiking, holiday shopping and swimming w the manatees. We used the kayaks provided and enjoyed a few evenings around the firepit. The view from the master bedroom was incredib well sto
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful Vacation

I have traveled often and use VRBO. We were so very pleased with the stay at this home. There was nothing that I lacked the whole time I was there. The extra effort that went into having a great time was definitely visible. We played games, painted rocks, swam, watched birds and wildlife, sat on the dock and just simply relaxed. The kitchen was well stocked and ready for anything I needed. There is lots of places to spread out and enjoy I really didn't want to leave. The distance to Dunnellon and Crystal River is good if you need anything. The host was in touch with me and extremely nice to work with. I would suggest if you are looking to stay at a get away that you give this one a trial run.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lesley R.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Perfect Getaway!

We had an absolutely fantastic stay at this property! From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the cleanliness and attention to detail. The house was exactly as described, if not better. The location was perfect, offering stunning views and easy access to local attractions. The host was incredibly responsive and helpful, providing us with all the information we needed for a smooth check-in and a comfortable stay. The amenities were top-notch, including a well-equipped kitchen, cozy living spaces, and comfortable beds. We especially enjoyed the outdoor area, which was perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful weather. Overall, this was one of the best vacation rentals we’ve ever had the pleasure to visit. e highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and relaxing getaway. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Home away from home!!

This was the most amazing place we have ever stayed! We were originally staying here while visiting my grandparents right after Hurricane Helene. While staying there they announced Hurricane Milton. On the day that we were supposed to leave we contacted Jennifer and she let us stay an extra night while we figured out what we were going to do. She had a cancellation that day because of the Hurricane and we were able to stay through Hurricane Milton. My Grandparents were in a mandatory evacuation zone and they stayed with us. We were all safe and comfortable. Jennifer was fantastic and checked in on us throughout the storm. We couldn't have asked for a better place to stay and a better host!! We were there for about 1.5 weeks and it felt like we were at home. The beds were comfortable. The place was super clean. It has all the amenities that you can think of and more. The view is amazing!! It was like being in paradise!! I will definitely be staying here again!! Thank you for making that stressful time during the Hurricane very relaxed and enjoyable for us!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kate P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lots of activities

Great to have handicapped accessibility within the house and we were able to get a wheelchair all the way down to the dock, however was rocky/uneven on the pathway by the fire pit. Lake water at dock was shallow with a lot of vegetation during this time of year (August). We were able to catch one catfish and multiple perch from the dock. Nice to view birds, butterflies, utilize firepit and the small heated pool. Also grateful to vacation with two dogs on a leash in the partially fenced backyard. There were a few house maintenance issues typical for Florida lakefront living, of which the owners addressed during our stay or communicated to our liking. We had a nice time, thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandon W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great experience!

The house is beautiful, the backyard was amazing. My family thoroughly enjoyed our time and would recommend to anyone. The kids really enjoyed the lizards and gator watching from the dock. We will definitely book again in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome for families with disabilities!

This was our first family vacay since my husband's sroke and is in a wheelchair... it was such a smooth, comfortable, accessible, fun time. We all enjoyed the home and property. Plenty of space for everyone, organized and labeled amenities and supplies. Fishing off the dock, kayaking, cooking, grilling, and of course, the bird watching out if the picture window into the beautifully cultivated bird garden was so enjoyable. We surely hope to be able to return to this haven, a true Calming Cove.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024