A Florida Secret

I just got back from an incredibly relaxing weekend at a unique Florida property. Steinhatchee Landing is a cottage-style resort set in a remote corner of the Nature Coast, on the Gulf of Mexico about two hours north of Tampa. Though it’s on the Gulf, this part of Florida isn’t about beaches; instead, it’s about rivers, marshland, fishing, hiking and just getting away. Guests stay in one- to three-bedroom houses with features like Jacuzzi tubs, screened porches and fireplaces (ours came in handy at night). The property edges the Steinhatchee River, and guests have access to a fleet of canoes and kayaks, plus a 16-passenger pontoon boat. (Owner Dean Fowler and his cocker spaniel, Riley, took us on a fun day trip, where we spied alligators, turtles and all kinds of exotic-looking birds.) It’s a great place for destination weddings; they have a 125-seat chapel with stained-glass windows, as well as a designated party space with catering, a bartender and a separate gazebo room for dancing. The best thing about it is the location: In this sleepy part of Florida, there’s not much to do but enjoy nature and relax. All of the houses are just steps away from each other, so you can take over the complex and spend some true quality time with your loved ones — with no distractions.
(P.S. My dog, Noodles, gave the resort four paws up. Nineteen of the cottages are pet-friendly, so if you plan to have your pet participate in your wedding, this is a good option.)