Southern Places
with Summer Graces
I’ve always loved the summer months with the opportunity to take a vacation and enjoy that down time we all need. I asked myself where would I like to go in Florida if I could visit over the summer months. The simple answer was somewhere with water. Not necessarily the “beach”, as long as there is a great pool, lake or river to play in and the setting is relaxing, comforting and enjoyable. The good news about vacationing in Florida over the summer months is that “Off Season” pricing is less expensive than “In Season” pricing, so that’s a plus!
When I first visited Hampton Lake Bed and Breakfast in Starke, I was amazed. Located right on this grand lake, my first impulse was to run onto the dock and jump into this beautiful lake. What a setting to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings and the inviting water activities it invokes. You can spend your day canoeing, fishing off the pier or swimming in the lake. In the evening, curl up with a good book in the swing or spa, or watch the sunset from one of the back porch rocking chairs. Paula, the owner innkeeper, makes the best chocolate cake I ever tasted. Whatever you choose, the world’s stresses will become a distant memory
www.florida-inns.com/listings/hamptonlakebandb-starke-florida.html
One of my newest favorites is the Black Dolphin Inn with its old world Spanish isle architecture, overlooking the Indian River in New Smyrna Beach, featuring 14 luxurious rooms each individually decorated with vintage furniture, and fine art with balconies and outdoor terraces. But I enjoy it mostly for the awesome upstairs room with a huge beautiful tub in the center of the room, along with the unforgettable seemingly endless water view from the tub and balcony, plus the grand bar in the Lobby. Good wine, good food and good company make for a fun evening. It’s a thrill to see the dolphins playing in the river whether you are sitting on the dock, the grand front porch or your own balcony. Overnight dockage is available for guests with boats and fishing opportunities are abundant. Recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award and it was recently honored by admittance into Select Registry.
www.florida-inns.com/listings/blackdolphininn*boutiquecollection-daytona-beach-florida.html
Hampton Lake BnB
Black Dolphin Inn
Inns E-Magazine / Summer 2014
22
By Pattie Detwiler