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

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Come to the Cove! Relax and play!
Property video
Calming Cove welcoming committee!
Front of the house with covered carport. Also have room for RV and RV hookup.
Quite cove with friendly neighbors!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8185.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Dunnellon, FL
  • Rainbow River
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Rainbow Springs State Park
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • K.P. Hole County Park
    ‪19 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 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.

Property manager

Jennifer L Simmons
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
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
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 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 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 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.
Map
Dunnellon, FL

What's nearby

  • Lake Rousseau - 1 min drive - 0.0 km
  • Rainbow River - 11 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Rainbow Springs State Park - 14 min drive - 12.6 km
  • K.P. Hole County Park - 19 min drive - 16.7 km
  • Three Sisters Springs - 27 min drive - 24.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Swampy's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Pizza Joint - ‬6 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.

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.

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. 103 out of 105 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 105 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 105 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 105 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 105 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Peggy Y.

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Brandon W.

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Carrie F.

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

We had a AMAZING time !

Our family enjoyed our much needed relaxing vacation ! The house was like a home ! The time and detail Jennifer put into her home is awesome !! Thank you very much!
Stayed 14 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia T.

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

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

Cynthia C.

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

Calming Cove

My family & I really enjoyed our stay. The property was impeccable and has everything and more for a comfortable stay. We truly enjoyed the peaceful surroundings where nature abounds. As an extra bonus, the house is outfitted for guests with special needs. I thank our host, Jennifer, for making our stay a remarkable one.
Stayed 16 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Zamara P.

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

Lake front beatiful home

Second time for our vacation on Jennifer and Mike home , love stay on this home , peaceful 😌 relax mini vacation , extremely recommend 🙏🙏🙏love these place , thank you 😊
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Luke P.

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

Nice place , well equipped.

Had a great time! Fished the lake and withacochiee river caught a lot of Bass and crappie , also caught a bowfin! There was tons of alligators around the lake I believe because they were mating , but i thought it was pretty wild! I Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

john r.

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

Great stay!!

We had a amazing stay. The house is the most well equipped house we have ever stayed at. The kitchen had everything we needed and more for our Thanksgiving dinner. Well marked so no searching for anything. We will be staying there again for sure.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard R.

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

Relaxing retreat

Had a wonderful three night stay and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Loved just relaxing on the dock, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and swaying on the hammock. Heated spa pool was wonderful, and great pizza just down the road. Hosts made check-in a breeze and every guest detail was given forethought and taken care of. Would stay again and our kids are thinking of doing the same with their friends. Perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Duane B.

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

Great two weeks

Fun time with friends. The weather disappointed but the house did not. We love the area too.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

LISA L.

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

This house is amazing. It's centrally located to visit many of the springs. Great house grateful hos

5 stars all the way. Very beautiful home, clean and great location.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mitchell B.

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

Relaxing

We had a very relaxing week and the property was beautiful and had all the amenities we needed and more.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sharon C.

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

Lakefront Home with Everything

Great location on the lake with every amenity. Loved the gardens and watching the birds. Quiet neighborhood made for a relaxing and peaceful stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

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

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests