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

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Come to the Cove! Relax and play!
Front of the house with covered carport. Also have room for RV and RV hookup.
Quite cove with friendly neighbors!
Front Porch
Foyer into the house

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8185.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Explore the area

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

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Living Room

1 Double Futon

Master

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Main

Toilet · Shower only

Master

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Office
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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 110 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 110 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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to 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 rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
0N-SITE KAYAKS - Kayakers must be experienced, know how to swim, and always wear life jackets while on the water. Use at your own risk.
WATERFRONT ACTIVITIES - Private watercraft launching, docking and use at participants' risk. On waterfront, children always under adult supervision
HEATED SPA/MINI POOL - Children must know how to swim and always be supervised by adults. Keep child safety latches on 2 pool access doors locked.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Citrus Springs

Located in Citrus Springs, this holiday home is near a water park and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Rainbow Springs State Park and Three Sisters Springs. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in Citrus SpringsOpens in a new window
Map
Dunnellon, FL

What's nearby

  • Lake Rousseau - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Rainbow River - 9 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Rainbow Springs State Park - 11 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Three Sisters Springs - 21 min drive - 22.9 km
  • World Equestrian Center – Ocala - 31 min drive - 45.1 km

Restaurants

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

Frequently asked questions

Does Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

How much does it cost to stay at Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly?

As of 26 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly on 11 June 2026 start from AU$353, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lakefront Getaway! Relax • Spa • Dock • Kayaks • Firepit • Handicap Friendly located?

This family-friendly Citrus Springs holiday home is located on the waterfront, steps from Lake Rousseau and within 9 mi (15 km) of Rainbow Springs State Park and Rainbow River. Blue Run of Dunnellon Park and K.P. Hole County Park are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 116 out of 118 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 118 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 118 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 118 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 118 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peggy Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second year at this wonderful, peaceful retreat. Home is beautiful and comfy. Kitchen is more well stocked than any rental I’ve stayed ever in. Owners are a phone call or text away although we had no problems in the 5 weeks we were there, just a few questions. Even during the 17 degree weather, we had a great time. Booked again for next year!
Stayed 34 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was great the house is a treasure anything you needed or wanted was at your fingertips
Stayed 14 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I have never witnessed such accommodating hosts! The property is really neat including a variety of activities onsite with the dock, plunge pool and screened in lanai. But the owners have taken it a whole new level offering absolutely everything I could think of that I didn’t know I needed. They were in communication with me throughout our stay and ensured we were comfortable. Amazing hosts, amazing location and an amazing home away from home! Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

LISA W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short stay, but very enjoyable

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

10/10 Excellent

winni W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Vacay

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

10/10 Excellent

Amber B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patty A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Detlev A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jesse J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

We had a great time, thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tana W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adriene T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tricia Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dano W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Felicia F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

We already plan on coming again next summer.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ronne D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mason S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place. Very relaxing and great fishing.

Definitely will stay here again. Super clean. Beaplace.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tatiana W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Property!!

This was the best equipped property we have ever stayed in - we wanted for nothing! The location was perfect, quiet and beautiful, but still close to everything. We would love to come and stay again!!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time at Calming Cove

We loved the house and all its amenities. The pool was perfect as it offered much needed reprieve from the sun. We loved the dock and the peaceful feel of the backyard.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ronald B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

About the host

Hosted by Jennifer L Simmons

Host profile image
Hello! We are Mike and Jennifer Simmons and we purchased this property from the previous VRBO owner in 2021. We currently live in Tampa Florida and want to retire to Dunnellon in the future but for now we are busy running our Coffee Roasting company!

Why they chose this property

We had been looking for a house that we could purchase in the Dunnellon area and when this house came on the market we put in our offer that day, site unseen! It is exactly what we wanted for our future and in the meantime we want to share it with others. When we spent our first few days here, we knew how special this house is. The previous owners put a lot of TLC into this house and it shows! Sitting out on the dock at night over looking the water and seeing all of the stars is so calming and relaxing!

What makes this property unique

House sits in a cove adding great privacy on the number one Bass fishing lake in Florida! Hot water pool / spa for exercise and relaxing. Giant oak trees with Spanish moss, paved walk way, flower gardens, etc, etc.

Our home is totally wheelchair accessible, inside and out!

Languages:

English

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