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Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River

Riverside cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River

View down the hill
View from our dock
Dock on the water
River view
View from upper dock

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8130.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Rainbow River
  • Place, Rainbow Springs State Park
  • Place, K.P. Hole County Park

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed, 1 Single Bunk Bed and 1 Single Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Hallway bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Master Bedroom bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area

About this property

Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River

The cottage at Blue Cove is a 1,400 square ft, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom retreat located on Blue Cove on the beautiful Rainbow River. You can bring your own boat and keep it at the private dock and/or you can utilize one of our canoes or kayaks during your stay. The cottage has everything that you need to head out for a river adventure or to be entertained indoors. There are 3 smart televisions in the home with streaming services, a game room with a retro style video game system, a ping pong table in the garage, board games and corn hole boards for playing out back.

At the entrance to the neighborhood there is a restaurant and bar on the water that you can boat to or even walk. The cottage is ideal for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape to one of Florida's most beautiful natural waterways. The cottage is close to downtown Dunnellon so picking up groceries and supplies is not going to take time away from your vacation. Conveniently located 1 hour from the University of Florida, 23 minutes to Crystal River, 5 minutes from biking trails and 30 minutes to The World Equestrian Center in Ocala. There is plenty of parking for your boat trailer after you put in at one of the local public boat ramps.

Please note that the home does have private access to the river but the steps down to the the water are steep and people that have mobility issues may find the stairs difficult to navigate. There are outdoor security cameras on the property. This is a family property for a maximum of 6 adults or 8 total people including children and no parties or pets are allowed. This property also has a rental agreement that is sent by VRBO in the app when you request to book. Thanks for checking out the cottage!

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Start one load of towels in the wash, no need to dry them.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Kayaks and canoes are for use onsite only. Please store them upside down on racks and locked up.
Only guests listed on the agreement can be on the property. If you bring a pet you will be charged after you leave or asked to leave during your stay.
This house has a rental agreement. Please be sure to read it before booking so that you can make an informed decision about booking.

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

Dunnellon

Located in Dunnellon, this cottage is on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Three Sisters Springs and Rainbow Springs State Park, while Circle Square Cultural Center and Don Garlits Museum of Racing are cultural highlights. Travelling with kids? Consider Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training, or check out an event or a game at Florida Horse Park.
View more Cottages in DunnellonOpens in a new window
Map
Dunnellon, FL

What's nearby

  • Blue Run of Dunnellon Park - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Rainbow River - 1 min drive - 0.7 km
  • Rainbow Springs State Park - 5 min drive - 3.4 km
  • K.P. Hole County Park - 7 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Juliette Falls Golf - 9 min drive - 12.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Swampy's - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Ellianos Coffee - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Cottage retreat at Blue Cove on the Rainbow River located?

This family-friendly Dunnellon cottage is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Rainbow River, Rainbow Springs State Park and Lake Rousseau. K.P. Hole County Park and El Diablo Golf & Country Club are also within 6 miles (10 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. 59 out of 60 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 60 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 60 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christopher G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home was exceptionally well stocked. If coming with a larger group, you would have everything you need. Clean home great host. Absolutely beautiful location.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin Emily B.

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

Great stay!

Fantastic place to stay, unwind, kayak, fish
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diane S.

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

Just like home!

I really appreciated a quiet neighborhood that was walking distance to Swampy's on the river. Plus a beautiful deck, kayaks, smart TV, every amenity, and Florida art. Love having a tub!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ashley C.

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

Lovely time.

Lovely home, beautiful property. Very much enjoyed the kayaks and canoes on Rainbow River.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

John M.

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

Great location

Very enjoyable stay
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dana J.

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

LOVED IT!!!

we loved our stay. House was very well stocked with anything you needed to entertain all age groups. Lots of extra blankets, towels, cleaning stuff. The view was wonderful. I even had a visit from the local otter while drinking my coffee on the dock. It was cold while we were there, so not a lot of water action. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina T.

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

Private oasis

We had the best time. The house had everything we could possibly think of and more. Very clean with lots of fun amenities.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shane S.

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

Great getaway

We had a blast at this house at blue lagoon. Nice and clean and ton of stuff to do too. Definitely on the list for a another visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

carolyn l.

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

Great Place!

We loved this property. Close to a really fun restaurant that we took the canoe out to a couple times. The house itself was super clean and well stocked; we weren't missing a thing. We loved fishing from the dock and heading out to the springs. Will definitly plan a trip here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Madeline E.

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

Everything Was Perfect

The home was perfect: so well thought out with everything you might need. The docks, kayaks, weather, and river made for a wonderful few days with family.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott W.

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

secluded waterfront on the cove

My family and I had a very nice time at this property. The house was very clean and loaded with fun things to do. Best of all was the shaded, secluded, waterfront view of the cove. There are quite a few kayaks on site that we took advantage of, and the river is a just a 5 minute paddle from house & and a restaurant on the river is not much further. I highly recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

ellen l.

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

Family vacation

We were close to all the things we wanted to do. They provided everything you could possibly need or want for your comfort. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathryne W.

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

August

The houae is so cute and the property beautiful. So many amenities. May stay was wonderful.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

KRR K.

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

Relax and enjoy!

I don't even know where to start. Communication was amazing. Home was easy to find and my oh my did it have just about everything you would need during your stay. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, tubes and a well stocked kitchen and towels and blankets. Thank you for everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

James K.

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

Exceeded our expectations- Cottage on Blue Cove is unforgettable!

Rainbow River offers a clean, safe place to kayak and swim with turquoise blue waters… we enjoyed seeing a family of wild otters, fish, turtles, and fascinating bird watching. Our hosts, Drew and Katie offer a very organized, clean, artistic cottage with many thoughtful details ( comfy beds/bedding too) and any water gear you might need - it felt like “home.” The community has many fun activities and good places to eat out. We will certainly tell our friends and family about this special place!
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Traci M.

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

Peaceful Retreat

We had such a wonderful, relaxing weekend at the Cottage at Blue Cove. We parked our car when we arrived on Friday and didn’t get in it again until we left on Monday. Take your pick of decks to sit in the comfy rocking chairs and enjoy the view and sounds of the cove. It’s so peaceful and the water is so clear. We fished off the dock and out on the river. We didn’t bother bringing our canoe because the hosts have multiple canoes and kayaks to borrow. We walked the hills in the area and looked at all the beautiful homes and more water views. And in the evenings, we played ping pong and retro arcade games. My husband and I try to rent a waterfront location a couple times a year to get a way, and this is one of our favorites. We definitely recommend it and hope to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

ASHLEY H.

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

Perfect and Peaceful

The cottage at Blue Cove was perfect for our family getaway. Katie, the owner was helpful with suggestions. Do yourself a favor, listen to the suggestions, and grab some bagels and donuts at Go For Donuts! Then head back to the cottage, set in one of the rocking chairs and watch the sun rise in the cove on Rainbow River. Just listening to the cove wake up in the morning is so refreshing. I really enjoyed watching the cranes and otters. Kayaking or canoeing on rainbow river is a must! We have never seen such clear water. Best part is they are part of the rental. So we hopped in and paddled down to Swampy’s and back north towards Rainbow River Park. We also enjoyed having so many activities available at the cottage. We are game playing family and so many games and activities are provided. My 9 year old really enjoyed the PacMan Atari games and corn hole (we did too!). The other games and uno cards got a lot of play! When you want to venture out your centrally located to so many amazing springs. We were able to swim with manatees at Crystal River and three sisters Springs. We drove 5 minutes up the road and swam at Rainbow River State Park. Then headed north and snorkeled Devil’s Den before heading south to Tarpon Springs to see the sponge docks. Weekiwatchi is just down the road too! If you’re looking for a sunset head to Fort Island Gulf Beach the views are amazing. We will definitely be back! Amazing hosts!
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2023

6/10 Okay

Dave D.

Disliked: Communication

Completely Overbearing

The property and house were amazing. The cleanliness, the games (inside and out) ...everything was awesome. Checked in on Friday, ....Saturday morning while Kayaking up Rainbow River...I get a call from Kelly, the Host. Conversation started with a Bold Face Lie! Said she never received my signed contract!!! Really???? Then why did you send me the entry code? The code to all the locks for the kayaks and canoes?? Then comes the No Smoking In or Outside the house. O.k. #1. I don't smoke, #2. I honestly didn’t remember the rental agreement.....it was 4 months ago. Anyway... I apologized, told her I didn’t smoke, and my husband didn’t know the rules. Next.... My husband got sick. Left and went home. I already paid , my grandson lives 45 minutes from Dunnellon. I invited him to come and hang out., since my husband went home sick...I figured no problem. Now, after I washed every single beach, shower and kitchen towel. Dried and put them away. Stripped every bed we used. Put away each and every canoe, kayak, paddle board etc. All the board games, washed the dishes and loaded and started the dish washer. Host sent a copy of text from cleaning woman to the owner. ( she had to do a DEEP dusting (ha! ha!) Then she wants to take pictures of and post the "supposed tore up blinds) just let me say.....#1. we NEVER touched the blinds. That is exactly how they were when we got there. If you like to watched 24/7 on cameras EVERYWHERE, this is the place for you!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage, abundance of necessities, games (including nintendo and old school games) and of course the the location. Rainbow River is gorgeous. Open and punctual communication with host.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristi G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Katie is an awesome host. The house has everything you could possibly need. Very clean. Property is pretty. Saw gators in the cove and kayaked there. Saw many deer in the vacant field and turkeys. Close to great restaurants and grocery stores. Will definitely return for another stay. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie L.

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

Filled with love

It is difficult trying to find the words to express this beautiful piece of paradise! You can see and feel it has been filled with so much love and memories! Cottage retreat has absolutely EVERYTHING you want and need, or didn't even think of. We had so much fun playing board games, video games, ping pong, but the highlight was being able to get straight onto the river from the house, and having so many different options of canoes, kayaks and standup boards. We LOVED it and can't wait to go back. Thank you for hosting us!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute cozy house in a quiet neighborhood on the beautiful Blue Cove of the Rainbow River. The house was very clean and the hosts did an excellent job of having everything anyone could need for an enjoyable stay. Plenty of towels, pillows, blankets, bathroom & kitchen supplies, games, movies and a full assortment of water toys like kayaks, canoes, oars, life vests, and fishing poles. My family could have stayed there a week and never run out of things to do!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shana Dellinger B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Katie has poured her heart into making this home perfect for anyone’s stay! I am always overly prepared for vacations so it’s impressive when I say that I could have just shown up with my own clothes and food and would have needed nothing else! We loved the local art all over the house and the location on the river. Would love to stay again!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Niki A.

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

Beautiful and serene

We came to Rainbiw River Springs to kayak canoe and swim. We did all the above and much more. The kids had so much fun, the adults did too. The property was amazing and serene! We enjoyed the herd of deer in the field on our evening walks! Thank you for an amazing time!! We will be back for sure.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lilia H.

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

Beautiful Property, Fully Stocked!

Thanks to this spot, our trip was perfect! This place really has just about anything you may need, we came here from a different VRBO and had brought many things that were already stocked at this house! Katie and Drew have clearly put so much thought and effort into making sure guests feel comfortable, the property is amazing. Katie was also incredibly responsive and helpful even before our stay began, and was able to answer so many questions for our group! There are so many kayaks and floats that you can take out on the river, and a bunch of activities inside the house for rainy days! 5 days went by so fast and left us wishing we had booked a longer stay! If you’re interested in coming to Dunnellon, I cannot recommend this place enough! Hands down our favorite experience in a short-term vacation rental property! Thank you Katie and Drew so much for opening your home to us!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

About the host

Hosted by Katie Morgan

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Languages:

English

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