Hot Spots in Florida

YOUR WEDDING AT LAKESIDE RANCH Location: at Resort Available: Year round Reservation: Yes Lakeside Ranch is a striking new exclusive wedding and events venue situated on Florida’s Nature Coast that offers unmatched beauty and southern hospitality. With its close proximity to Ocala/Gainesville, Tampa, and Orlando, Lakeside Ranch is ideal for parties and events of all kinds: wedding ceremonies and receptions, corporate retreats, evening receptions, holiday parties, birthday and anniversary celebrations, bar or bat mitzvahs, charity galas, high school proms and sweet sixteen parties. Benefits of holding your event at Lakeside Ranch: No food and beverage minimum No service fee Stunning views make Lakeside Ranch the perfect backdrop for any event so you won’t have to over spend on flowers and décor to disguise standard event spaces Custom menu design Full-service event design Custom layout Five unique wedding ceremony locations Three stunning reception sites Complimentary onsite bridal suite Certified wedding coordinators available onsite Professional event partners with years of experience to service your event needs Friendly and knowledgeable staff Flexibility on event times Access to all on-property locations for photography before and after ceremony Nearby Amenities Located in lovely Citrus County, Lakeside Ranch offers first class amenities including: Golf Skeet Shooting Bass Fishing Horseback Riding Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours Hay Wagon Rides Barn Facilities Cottage Dock Bonfire Boating Villa & House Rentals Schedule a private tour and come discover Lakeside Ranch.  Located in Inverness Florida, Citrus County, the heart of the Nature Coast.   For Lakeside Ranch Booking Information: Studio 352 Events Phone: 352.270.8924 Email: events@lakeside-ranch.com           

HUNTING AT THE ROSS HAMMOCK RANCH Location: Citrus & Levy County Distance from Vacation Villa: 25 mile Available: Year round Reservation: Yes, at least 48 hours in advance Florida is known for its beautiful weather and fantastic golf courses but did you know that there are excellent hunting opportunities in Florida, especially hunting "Whitetail Deer" (medium sized  deer native to Florida) and "Osceola Turkey" (Wild Turkey native to Florida) are popular. A short distance from the Van der Valk Golf Resort you’ll find the Ross Hammock Ranch. With Ross Hammock and his team, you can hunt at his private preserve. The preserve has more than 500 ha (1300 acre) of forest lands and natural vegetation of so-called "Uplands" and hardwood hammocks (deciduous forest). Wild Hogs (wild boar) can be hunted year round as well as some exotic game like Elk, Red Stag, Axis Deer and even Water Buffalo. Please visit the website of Ross Hammock Ranch for more information over the seasons. In some seasons it is also possible to hunt with bow and arrow in the other seasons you can just use the shotgun. Hunting will be done using tree stands, ground blinds or spot and stalk methods. Bay dogs are available to hunt Trophy Boar. The Ross Hammock Ranch has Cypress Log cabins for overnight stays for hunters that want to hunt multiple days, as well as on site game processing facilities. Full taxidermy services are available. We welcome the opportunity to organize your hunting trip prior to your arrival in Florida, Van Der Valk and Ross Hammock will arrange your hunting license, rifle, shotguns and ammunition. "Photo Safari" for the non-hunters are available. Hunting Seasons: Wild Hogs year round  Elk, Red Stag, Axis Deer, Gemsbok, throughout the year. Note: some game shed antlers in late March Water Buffalo throughout the year but the best time is between November and March. Whitetail deer from to September 15 – January 15 Osceola Turkey from to September 15 – December 15 Rates: $ 200 per day per hunter * Price includes hunting license, rifles, ammunition, transportation by jeep and meal with drink, and exclusive harvest fees * and Taxidermy. * See web-site for more information: www.rosshammockranch.com To make a reservation or for more information: call the frontdesk (+1)352-637-1140 or e-mail info@valkusa.com

CANOEING AT LAKE TSALA APOPKA Location: at Resort Available: Year round Monday through Friday 9:00 am till 6:00 pm Reservation: Yes, day before or sooner Explore Citrus County’s premier attraction for bird watching, photography, canoeing, fishing, and family memories. Escape to nature on a 2-hour to full day, quiet-water, paddling as a Seminole Indian on adventure through a 19,000-acre wildlife preserve. Tsala Apopka Lake is a chain of lakes located within a bend in the Withlacoochee River in Citrus County (North central Florida). This area is known historically as the Cove of the Withlacoochee. Tsala Apopka Lake is composed of a number of lakes, swamps and marshes interspersed with islands, with a total open water surface area of about 19,000 acres (77 km2). It is spread through an area of about 63,000 acres (250 km2), bounded by State Road 200 to the north, State Road 48 to the south, the Withlacoochee River to the east, and US 41 to the west. About one-quarter of the area is in hammocks or live oak scrub. In all seasons the Tsala Apopka Lake astounds with its beauty and abundant wildlife. From the thousands of white ibis in the fall, the sightings of deer, wild hog, and turkey in the winter, the proliferation of songbirds in spring, and its cooling shade on a summer's day, Tsala Apopka Lake brings a new surprise and delight around each bend. Bring your sense of adventure, rent a canoe for an hour or a day trip and paddle through this swamp full of Florida's unique flora and fauna. Perhaps paddling close to a sunning gator, a threatened limpkin, turtles congregating on a log, or catching that large-mouthed bass will be the most prized memory of your vacation. Whether this is your first time, you are an experienced paddler, a vacationer or a local resident, the Florida you're looking for is just a short paddle away! Canoe at Tsala Apopka is located at the north entrance of the Lakeside Country Club only minutes away from your vacation villa, we offer self-guided, day trips, half days or hourly rentals. Rates: Start at $ 25 per half-day per canoe * Canoe: Seats 2 adults and 1 child To make a reservation or for more information: call the frontdesk (+1)352-637-1140 or e-mail info@valkusa.com

HORSEBACK RIDING AT LAKESIDE RANCH Location: at Resort Available: Year round Monday through Friday 9:00 am till 6:00 pm Reservation: Yes, day before or sooner Lakeside Ranch is home to one of the largest herds of the mythic Mountain Horse. From exceptional bloodlines, we produce high quality Mountain Horses, legendary for their gentle disposition and smooth gait. Most of our customers are drawn to the Mountain Horse for its gentle temperament, smooth gait and exceptional beauty. Virtually all of our horses originate from double and triple registered Mountain Horses (see Mountain Horse History) carefully bred for these sought-after characteristics. Our foals are developed to foster the Mountain Horse's natural affinity for learning and human interaction. They are gently handled as foals and yearlings, slowly started under saddle as two year olds and finally painstakingly finished for the trail rider who is looking for a naturally smooth ride on a beautiful horse. Mountain Horses became famous and admired for their sure-footedness which they proved in climbing and traversing the slick granite slopes and narrow mountain passes of Kentucky. This feature is no less important to those of us who live in the flatlands. Cypress swamps and grass flat ponds present their own challenges, to which the Mountain Horses respond with dexterity and flair. Whether your riding venue of choice is high lands or flat lands, riding or driving, Mountain Horses will move you through the terrain, in comfort and style. Horseback riding Scenic guided tours through the pastures of Lakeside Ranch, a beautiful 400 Acres wooded ranch with lakes, adjacent to the Van Der Valk Golf Resort. Your morning tour starts off with an introduction to the mountain horses, some instruction and valuable riding tips, followed by a 2 hour trail ride over the Ranch. There will be a 30 minute break for a pick-nick or just to relax and enjoy the view and weather. During the ride you will have the opportunity to see the famous Mountain Horse herd, the Ranches’ mythic stallions and world class brood mares share some of the most splendid landscape with wildlife native to Citrus County.  Total time for this trail ride is approximately 3 hours. Pony camp For the younger riders, Lakeside Ranch offers a pony camp. The beginners will have a meet and greet with the mini horses, they will be brushing manes and saddle the ponies. After which they will be able to ride and play with them. The pony camp will be in the morning hours. (minimum of 4 children) Tours The Lakeside Ranch offers Farm tours by horse drawn carriage. Your tour guide will point out many features of the horse breeding operation, you will observe the horses in their natural habitat and you may see impressive Florida Wildlife. The tour is 1 hour. To make a reservation or for more information: call the frontdesk (+1)352-637-1140 or e-mail info@valkusa.com 

The Crystal River and Homosassa areas of Citrus County otherwise know as the “Nature Coast” of Florida is a true fisherman’s paradise.  Three major fresh water spring fed rivers scattered throughout our area discharge right into the Gulf of Mexico creating an estuary that is second to none in the state of Florida.   Gin Clear water and large areas of unspoiled islands, hidden back country coves and miles of untouched creeks are just some of the habitats that anglers from all over the world flock to in search of “World Class” Redfish, Speckled Trout, Grouper, Tarpon, Tripletail, Flounder, Black Drum, Spanish Mackerel, Permit and Pompano to name a few.   Stalking Redfish in shallow water, Speckled Trout along many of the Grass Flats, and sight casting to Giant Tarpon, Black Drum and Cobia are just a few of our specialties and opportunities to catch all these species can occur on any giving day. Van der Valk Golf Resort Inverness recommends to book your trip with Florida Fishing Adventures.   Freshwater fishing Florida's freshwater fisheries comprise 3 million acres of lakes, ponds and reservoirs, and approximately 12,000 miles of fishable rivers, streams and canals-with no closed seasons. The recreational fishery resources alone in these waters provide entertainment for more than 1.4 million anglers annually, who enjoyed 24.4 million days fishing recreationally in Florida's fresh waters Saltwater Fishing Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World and offers unrivaled fishing experiences. Approximately 2.7 million anglers try their luck in Florida each year to catch any of the 1,000 different species of fish. The FWC invites you to dive into Florida's spectacular marine resources! Deep sea fishing Offshore boat fishing, sometimes called deep sea or open water fishing, is fishing in deep water (more than 30 metres) and at some distance from land. It is dangerous compared to shallow water or lake fishing. More knowledge is needed about weather patterns, navigation and safety precautions, and this is not an activity for beginners. Offshore boats are generally much larger than inshore boats, and may need to be moored in a marina. They are sturdily constructed so they can brave the weather and water conditions encountered in open waters.

Those without the need for speed will tell you one of the best ways to enjoy the state's waterways is completely motor free. The state of Florida is host to over 700 freshwater springs and boasts the largest concentration of fresh water springs on earth. One of the best ways to experience one of these fresh water springs, is by floating down the Rainbow River in an inner tube. This is why every year  many Floridians and some smart tourists make their way to Dunnellon, Florida to one of the many parks that allow you to tube the Rainbow River. Rainbow River is the fourth largest spring system in Florida with over 500 million gallons of crystal clear fresh water flowing each day to the river.   If you are planning on making a trip to the Rainbow River, there are a few things you should know before plopping yourself into your inner tube and setting float.The Rainbow River is spring fed so the temperature of the water is almost always 72 degrees. On most days you can see down to the bottom of the river no matter its depth. It is a good idea to bring a mask and snorkel so you can see the fish and springs better than simply floating above them. The Rainbow River is also home to tons of wildlife, manatees, birds, fish and even a few otter can usually be seen when tubing the river. Don't worry, alligators are extremely rare to be seen on the tubing part of the Rainbow River. The good news for Rainbow River tubers is that recently, the state of Florida has added a tuber's park. The entry fee is $5.00 per car. The park has a free shuttle service that brings you and your tube up river. After about two hours of floating you will end up by your car. If you would like to float down the river again you can simply take another shuttle up the river for free. The state has also contracted with a local water sports service to have tube rentals available at the park. The park is open from May until the end of September.   Want to try it for yourself? Head to Marion County Park on the Rainbow River, about 20 minutes up north of Inverness.

Take an airboat ride with  Wild Bills Airboat Tours and see Florida Alligators and other native wildlife up-close.  Wild bills Airboat Tours is the best way to see Florida’s Exotic Wild life in their unspoiled natural paradise.This unforgettable adventure is waiting for you right here only minutes away from Van der Valk Golf Resort Inverness. Wild Bills Airboat Rides will take you on a thrilling airboat ride, down the Withlacoochee River and through the swamps looking for the Florida Alligator. Come explore the beautiful scenery and native Florida Wildlife of the historic Withlacoochee River right in the heart of Central Florida! Wild Bills Airboat Tours provides enjoyable and educational experiences exploring the wetlands of this scenic river. You will see the unspoiled Florida, in all its splendor! Enjoy a 60 minute tour, that will take you far away from the crowds, on the Withlacoochee River on your airboat with Captain Wild Bill. Captain Wild Bill is a Central Florida Native and is very experienced and knowledgeable of the history and the wildlife of the Withlacoochee River. See and take pictures of the native Florida wildlife in their natural habitats. During your 60 minute round-trip tour, wildlife can jump up right in front of you!!! Expect to see native and migratory birds, Otters, Bald Eagles, Sand Hill Cranes, Herons, Wild Boar, Osprey and plenty of Alligators. More information can be found on the website of Wild Bills Airboat Tours.  

Meet a manatee up close, face-to-face, underwater without even getting wet! Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a showcase for Florida’s native wildlife in a natural setting of woods and wetlands. Visitors often have an excellent opportunity to observe native animals birds, and plants in their natural setting.   Walk along a naturally beautiful boardwalk and view many Florida’s species such as cougars, bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats, otters and foxes. Also the wildlife park does educational programs offered daily on West Indian manatees and Wildlife Encounters featuring alligators, birds of prey, and Florida snakes. Pontoon boats run from the Visitor Center to the wildlife park, weather permitting. Website: Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Manatee webcam

MANATEE TOUR Location: Crystal River Distance from Vacation Villa: 17 mile Available: Year round Reservation: Yes, at least 48 hours in advance Manatees The calm Gulf, consistently 72˚ F springs, spring – fed rivers and a variety of aquatic life make Citrus County an ideal destination for snorkeling and all experience levels of diving. Whether you are interested in snorkeling with manatees near Crystal River or diving into the cavern at the King’s Spring, the County has the perfect place for your aquatic adventure. Citrus County amazingly clear springs have under water visibility of up to 100 feet, an impressive range for viewing equally impressive marine life. Crystal River offers one of best locations to see and interact with the Florida manatee, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, also known as gentle giants. Swim with the Manatees of Crystal River Unlike other areas of Florida, the Federal Government allows for "passive interaction" between manatees and people in Kings Bay and surrounding area. This allows the ability to go face-to-face and gently touch and stroke manatees with just one hand, providing the manatee approaches you. We provide pre-tour education to our guests on passive interaction and how to best experience your swim, snorkel or dive experience manatee tour. Swim with the manatees as well as exploring all of the greater Kings Bay estuary and springs is extremely popular. Dive with the Manatees of Crystal River Most manatee tour experiences are best done by snorkeling while wearing wet suits, making the interaction as silent as possible, and the manatees more inclined to approach and get close. We maintain new suits and snorkel gear, all included in our manatee tours, as well as full-service facilities for changing, videos and pictures of your manatee experience, and more. This is a once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunity, where you can swim alongside these gentle giants as they play, eat, and socialize with one another. There is no better place to have a Florida manatee experience than with the Plantation on Crystal River Adventure Center. Manatee swim-tours start at $30 per person Enjoy our most popular all inclusive “Van Der Valk” Manatee tour $68 per person (7am till noon). Full American Breakfast at Adventure Center Scenic boat tour to King’s Bay Visit to the Three Sisters Spring Wet suit, mask, snorkel and fins Hot beverages Towels, hot showers To make a reservation or for more information: call the frontdesk (+1)352-637-1140 or e-mail info@valkusa.com

Come and join the professionally certified guides as they lead you through a 2 ½ to 3 hour tour through a beautiful and remote natural area that few have ever seen. First your guides will outfit you in safety gear. Before your flight through the forest begins, your guides will teach you proper zipping and safety techniques.   Then you’re off…you'll soar from one tree-stand to another as you enjoy views that were once only reserved for birds. During your tour your guides will provide information regarding wildlife, nature and the history of the area. You’ll zip past enormous cliff walls, fly over huge lakes and traverse along rope bridges and end your adventure with a thrilling rappel!   This amazing adventure will have your adrenaline pumping as you go zipping past the cliff sides of this one of a kind property. Lakes, cliffs, massive canyons and more…It’s the only place in Florida where all these things exist and it’s only at The Canyons Zip Line & Canopy Tours.

The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail (GFBWT) is a program of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This 2,000-mile,(3200 Km) self-guided highway trail connects and unifies nearly 500 birding and wildlife viewing sites throughout Florida. This ambitious project features detailed guide booklets, a mobile device application, and special highway signs identifying GFBWT sites. The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is divided into four sections. The Citrus County Birding Trail is part of the West Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail and provides a unique topography for all birders. The eighteen birding trails created for the Great Florida Birding Trail program take into account these unique features that make Citrus County and its habitat for birds a special place. The county trail system is divided into the three natural ecological characterizations that make up the geology of the county. Within a couple minutes travel distance you'll find the next "Birding Trails":   Potts Preserve Trail This is a "wilderness" hiking route along the Withlacoochee River and 3 miles long. The route is a combination of hardwood forest and wetlands. Potts Preserve is a 3300 acre hiking area with numerous hiking and jogging trails. Johnson Pond Trail This hiking trail is about 4 kilometers, it is a gravel path through an ancient forest and to Johnson more, there are observation decks and seats for bird watching. Loop Road Trail at Flying Eagle Preserve The route leads you through Cypress swamp to an open area, on the other side of the route runs you through hardwood forests. The total length of this route is 10 kilometers. Over 250 species of birds were counted during the census period. Some of the most sought after bird species that can be seen in Citrus County include the Red-cockaded woodpecker, Bachman's Sparrow, American White Pelican, Scrub Jay and many more. More information can be found on the GFBWT website: