Florida: Steinhatchee, Steinhatchee Landing Resort - A Secret Family Vacation Spot. Located on the meandering Steinhatchee River in North Central Florida, Steinhatchee Landing Resort is treasured for its serene natural setting, lush landscape and relaxing atmosphere.  But, it is also a favorite for those who like to get out and enjoy an abundance of recreational pursuits in the resort’s immense natural playground; a secret family vacation spot with oodles of ways to have fun – no lines, no tickets, and no cranky kids.
 
Accommodations: Steinhatchee Landing Resort, a unique retreat of homes and villas resembling a 19th Century Southern village, is located just minutes from some of the best bay scalloping in the United States. Establish base camp in one of the 36 Victorian and Florida “Cracker”-style cottages. Relax on the 35-acres of unspoiled landscape shaded by towering pines and magnolias, reminding guests of “Vintage” Florida.

Activities: The atmosphere is laid back and non-commercial making it a perfect place for a family to unwind and make memories. Outdoor activity abounds with fishing (freshwater, saltwater and fly), croquet, cycling, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, and tennis.  Property amenities include a 55 ft. swimming pool, indoor swim spa and sauna, fitness center, and daily continental breakfast in the Welcome Center. For an unforgettable, first-hand experience on the Steinhatchee River, resort guests can also rent canoes, kayaks and a pontoon boat.  The Landing provides chauffeured canoeing trips down Steinhatchee Falls and a Captain for the pontoon boat, accommodating up to 12 persons for River or Gulf view cruises (nominal fee applies).
 
For angling enthusiasts, an extraordinary freshwater and saltwater fishing experience is never far away.  With inshore, offshore and fly fishing excursions leaving every day, guests can hire area charter companies for half-day and full-day trips to hook grouper, cobia, snapper, kingfish, red fish, and sea trout from the Gulf of Mexico, just three miles downstream from the resort.  Freshwater finds include trout, catfish and bass. Steinhatchee Landing provides docking space for up to 15 boats and the main office will arrange fishing trips with local captains.

While scuba diving is popular across Florida, cave and cavern diving is unique to North Central Florida in North America.  Certified divers can explore the subterranean sights hidden within the caverns and caves of Florida’s springs, from 130 feet to thousands of yards below the surface.  Divers are guaranteed spectacular underwater beauty and adventure, but take on the added responsibility of using special techniques and equipment to protect these fragile environments.  Trading freshwater for saltwater, divers can take the plunge in the Gulf of Mexico by hiring local Captains for an unforgettable diving or spear fishing excursion. 

Value added:  Enjoy a “familymoon” retreat. Steinhatchee Landing has created a weddings plus atmosphere which provides guests just another day in paradise without the hassles of organizing the details. The 2,000-sqaure foot Dancing Waters’ Chapel is the focal point for gatherings and receptions. The plus part includes; romantic pathways, gardens, petting zoo and docking space for boats, canoes and kayaks. Ideal for a wedding or after-wedding getaway, the resort provides space and activities for the whole family or both families, including the kids. The experience is known as familymoon.

Discovery: There is also a sister property, The River Inn. It is located in the village and has rooms as well as efficiency units. The town has only 500 residents and no stop lights. Children experience a degree of freedom without much stress placed on parents or grandparents. Need to know: If you plan on cooking your own food, stop in Perry or Cross City and pick up your supplies. There are a couple of general stores that have great takeout food. If your family wants something special prepared, bring the components with you.

Location on the planet: Steinhatchee Landing Resort is centrally located 75 miles from Gainesville, and within a two-and-a-half hours’ drive of the metropolitan areas of Tallahassee, Orlando and Tampa Bay. The resort is 36 miles south of Perry, Florida and is nestled only three miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, on the Steinhatchee River one of Florida's most scenic rivers.

Make it happen: Rates begin at $145 per night for a one-bedroom cottage - rates are higher on weekends, holidays and during the summer months. 1(352) 498-3513, toll-free 1-800-584-1709 or www.SteinhatcheeLanding.com