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Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage

Photo gallery for Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage

Morning walk, river views, early summer, what could be more relaxing?
The Santa Fe creates mirror images for stunning photos all year
Winter kayaking from the Ichetucknee head springs to the cottage on the Santa Fe
Manatees migrate from the Gulf of Mexico to the warm springs in Winter.
Abundant turtle life on the Ichnetuckee River in early spring

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 244.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Branford, FL
  • Ichetucknee River
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Ichetucknee Springs State Park
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Ginnie Spring
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage

Stay seven night or more for a10% discount on your entire stay! The Hideaway Cottage is located on the Santa Fe River, surrounded by hundreds of natural fresh water springs, off of SR 138, then on approximately 2 miles of lime rock country roads, between Fort White and Branford, Florida on a beautiful wooded 3 acre lot (adjacent to Owners home and 3 acre lot) with a winding boardwalk to the riverdeck and floating dock on the Santa Fe River. Enjoy sitting around the fire-pit in the evenings, on the cottage deck, or the floating dock, while watching wildlife; including deer, turkeys, hawks, rabbits, raccoons, otters, manatees, beaver, and other wildlife near the cottage.

Just minutes up river from the cottage; is the mouth of the beautiful, crystal clear, Ichetucknee River, Gilchrist Blue State Park, Ginnie Springs and the Hwy 47 public boat ramp. Down-river just minutes are three very popular boat camps/boat ramps on the Santa Fe River; SR 129 Bridge public boat ramp, Sandy Point Private boat ramp, and Ella Ray's private boat ramp, where many amateur and professional anglers put in the river then head just a few miles downstream to the Suwannee.

If you are a Gator Fan and interested in attending UF Gators games the cottage is approximately 45 minutes away from the stadium, enjoy a special retreat at the Hideaway Cottage on the Gator football weekends. Autumn is a perfect time of year to enjoy the Springs and the Rivers.

The cottage is 12 miles from the well know diving capital of Branford, Florida on the beautiful Suwannee River. Alachua, Columbia, Gilchrist, and Suwannee counties boast of all the beautiful clear blue-green springs that emerge from the limestone karst throughout the area. Free diving, cave diving, and snorkling in our springs are a popular year round activity. This is truly a diver's paradise!

Several beautiful Florida State Parks are just a short drive of the Hideaway Cottage; Ichetucknee Springs State Park/North and South entrances, Gilchrist Blue State Park, Ginnie Springs Park, O'Leno State Park, & River Rise State Park. Many local county parks feature natural springs in the area. Also there numberous biking trails in the area, paved and natural located within miles of us for the cyclists.

We also have one of the only natural waterparks in North Florida, Bob's waterpark on the Suwannee River near Branford, Florida

The historic towns of Fort White, (13 miles) and High Springs, (19 miles) are on HWY 27 to the east of the cottage. The Ichetucknee Springs State Park is just a few minutes north of us. Kayakers, paddle boarders, canoeist, tubers, snorkelers and divers enjoy this section of the Santa Fe where small boats and fishermen abound. Many private natural game hunting camps populate the area for the avid hunter.

The cottage sleeps 2 comfortably, in the studio space, with one Queen bed, a full size, fold out Clack Clak sofa and a fold away cot. Cooking is easy in a fully equipped kitchen containing a coffeepot, microwave, electric stove, oven, and refrigerator in an open dining area with a table and 4 chairs. Total square feet of the cottage indoors is 450 sf.

A ROKU TV, DVD player and WIFI are available. Enjoy the wide front deck area morning and night nestled into the edges of the natural woods teaming with humming birds, butterflies, owls, deer and wild turkeys.

Be sure to check out the excellent restaurants and live entertainment that are near the cottage and also located in Lake City, Branford, High Springs, Trenton, and Bell, all of these towns are within a short diving distance of the cottage.

Property manager

Mike and Laura Null
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Adults only
Must be 18 years or older.
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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
No smoking anywhere on the property.
Only registered guests should occupy the property, cottage and/or use the amenities. No visitors!
NO SMOKING on ANY part of the property, decks, or river. Please clean out refrigerator and freezer and take all remaining groceries with you.
Additional charges will be assessed for damaged/taken: pillows, rugs, linens, towels, kitchen towels, placemats, dinnerware, glasses, silverware, etc.

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 indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Branford

Located in Branford, this cottage is in a rural area and on a river. While the natural beauty of Ginnie Spring and Santa Fe River-Hartzog Conservation Easement can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Bob's River Place. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Branford, FL

What's nearby

  • Santa Fe River-Hartzog Conservation Easement - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Suwannee River - 19 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Ichetucknee River - 25 min drive - 21.1 km
  • Ichetucknee Springs State Park - 26 min drive - 21.4 km
  • Ginnie Spring - 31 min drive - 19.7 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Reds Tavern Ft White - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Suwannee River Cove Restaurant - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Colleen's Restaurant At Sandy Point - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪C J's Santa Fe Saloon - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Sandy Point - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Ichetucknee Springs/Ginnie Springs/Santa Fe River at the Hideaway Cottage located?

Situated on a river, this cottage is steps from Santa Fe River-Hartzog Conservation Easement and 1.9 mi (3 km) from Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area. Sampson Lake and Suwannee River 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. 109 out of 117 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 117 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 117 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 117 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 117 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie F.

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

Peaceful getaway

Our stay was amazing. Exactly what we were looking for. Lots of nature around the property and close to different springs. We definitely will be back.Thank you
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen P.

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

Awesome Hideaway

The Hideaway Cottage is an amazing get away. Quiet peaceful location perfect for a getaway weekend. Close to many springs along the Santa Fe. Owners were very accommodating and personable. So glad they have shared their piece of paradise.We will definitely book again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lea J.

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

Wonderful retreat at Hideaway

Hideaway Cottage and the riverside property it is nestled in were just what we we were hoping - Cozy, peaceful and an easy launchpad for wilderness adventures. We kayaked the Santa Fe from their dock and saw so much wildlife on or near the property,. Mike was very helpful and on hand when needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily E.

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

Great Getaway!

This is the perfect little cottage! While off the beaten path, this property is gorgeous and everything you could want for a relaxing getaway. The cottage was spotless and stocked with everything you could need and more. Mike and Laura are amazing hosts and made sure we felt welcome. It rained while we were there so we weren't able to spend as much time on the porch and dock as we wanted, but we were able to see several deer, turkeys and rabbits!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

harlee k.

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

Slice of Heaven

We loved staying here! Perfect location for any and all outdoor activities on the rivers and springs. We loved relaxing on the floating dock and sitting around the fire in the evening. Lisa and Mike were extremely hospitable and communicative. We can’t wait to stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

David L.

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

Paradise

Great location for multiple activities
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ray M.

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

Peaceful cottage on the river

The getaway cottage was exactly as advertised. It was the perfect size for the two of us, and had everything we needed for our 3 night stay. It was a short walk to the dock. Mike met us at the property for a quick tour, then left us to enjoy their beautiful property. We plan on making a trip back sometime next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Millie F.

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

Very relaxing visit.

Mike and Laura were/are great hosts. We tried a little fishing off the floating dock (caught four), and we enjoyed the fire pit and walking around the property. Hope to return sometime soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Bienve D.

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

Awesome

Mike & Laura were awesome. Very sweet. Everything was perfect. The property was gorgeous. The bread and bubbly were perfect for our honeymoon. The boardwalk was supercool. It was nice to enjoy the river in the morning and evening. We are definitely planning a return visit. Love Edwin & Bienve
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

2/10 Terrible

Judy B.

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

Birthday weekend

I gave my husband this trip for his birthday. It was just what we wanted. A comfortable place to stay close to a river where he could fish. Secluded enough to enjoy our down time, but close to grocery stores, restaurants, & outdoor activities. We loved our stay & want to return! Mark & Judy
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin H.

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

Weekend getaway

Really enjoyed our stay. The property was so nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Regina F.

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

Just like Home-away

My husband and I had a wonderful time. We were close to all the springs we wanted to snorkel and we enjoyed our mornings and evenings watching the wildlife. It was definitely off the beaten path but worth the drive. Accommodations were more than enough to make us feel at home.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

JoAnne M.

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

Blissful

Such a nice, peaceful area. Hosts were amazing! Lots of thoughtful details included with rental. I felt my stress melting away…
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

TJ G.

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

Boating Vacation

Quiet, relaxing place on the river. The best hosts you could ever want. If you want to get away and have some peace, this is the place.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aja M.

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

Wonderful experience at the Hideaway Cottage!

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Hideaway Cottage! From the moment we walked in I could see the care and thought that Laura and Mike put into their cottage. The kitchen had everything we needed (plus more!), there were extra pillows and blankets, toiletries, plenty of room to hang clothes, and a very well put together binder of local info. There was even a pan of blueberry muffins! The walls are adorned with Laura’s lovely photographs of the area. We really enjoyed chatting and laughing with Laura and Mike when we arrived. They are lovely people and made us feel very much at home. Their yard is pretty magical, too. I got to meet Pierre the Hare, a turtle, and a bunch of deer that all looked very at home in the yard. The boardwalk through the trees to their dock is really neat, too. Sitting on the dock, watching day turn to night was very relaxing. I would absolutely stay at the Hideaway Cottage again. Thanks Laura and Mike!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanna W.

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

Short vacation

The property was beautiful! The owners were super nice and welcomed us as soon as we got there. The cottage was perfect! Hope to visit again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

REMY W.

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

Hideaway Cottage

Couple in our late 60s escaping the heat of July in the cool Florida springs. Very impressed. Cottage was excellently maintained and comfortable. Location was perfect for related activities in the area. Mike and Laura could have been relatives they were so accommodating and visiting with them was a delight. If you bring some corn the deer will be your new pals. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

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

Beautiful Get Away

This adorable cottage sits off the beaten path and lies near the river with dock access to enjoy the waters. My best friend and I stayed here for 3 days and had an absolute blast. The cabin owners met us at the cabin, gave us a tour of the property, and made recommendations for local restaurants and best things to do. We spent time at several local springs, our favorite being the Ichetucknee River. We highly recommend going on a weekday and taking a kayak (not a water board) early in am as we witnessed lots of wildlife and about a 5 to 6 foot aligator :0 - I was on a paddle board and mortified he would come near me. The blue hole is also a must! We recommend snorkeling and taking underwater videos. The cabin is perfect, has all basic needs, bed and futon were super comfortable. I highly recommend this cabin and plan to return soon!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allie B.

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

Slice of Heaven

If I took anything away from this vacation, it is life is so sweet when lived more simply. Mike met us and made us feel at home while he showed us around the property. During our tour we were visited by a family of deer and a little brown rabbit, fondly named Pierre. The cabin is immaculately clean and has everything you could possibly need. We cooked there for two nights of our stay and the kitchen was stocked with all we needed and more. We enjoyed the breezes while relaxing on the floating dock each day. The Hideaway cottage is perfect for it’s namesake. It’s the perfect place to hideaway and commune with nature. It truly is a slice of heaven.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly W., Durham

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

River Recharge

We had an Absolute fabulous stay here. Laura and Mike greeted us upon arrival and showed us around the property. It is just serene, right on the water. We sat out on the deck our first night with our camping chairs and snacks for the sunset, and watched 2 otters play in the river. Sad we didn't make it back out there again, because we were fully exhausted from 2 full days on the water at Ichetucknee, Ginnie, and Blue Springs. Laura did an excellent job of recommending food and all three of places we chose were winners!! Great Meals!! The farm Stand, Pink Flamingo, and Cherry Restaurant. The cottage was fully stocked with anything and everything you might need from a q-tip to parcheesi. Super clean and comfortable. We had a lovely time and will definitely be return customers.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

David W.

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

Amazing

Very beautiful and Peaceful! It was everything we were looking for! I absolutely had a wonderful time! We will definitely be visiting again! Thanks Mike and Laura!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melissa W., Beaufort

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

Perfect Get Away!

We had a great few days in the hide away cottage! It had everything we needed & very clean! We enjoyed visiting the springs near by! Thank you Mike for making us feel very welcomed when we arrived!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard S.

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

Beautiful Property

The home was clean, set up well and very attractive. The property was amazing. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

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

Relaxing getaway

We had a great time staying at the cottage, Laura met us when we arrived and was a gracious hostess showing us around the property and sharing her beautiful artwork with us. We were able to feed the bunny and deer that come up in the yard ❤️Property is off the beaten path but short drive to the beautiful Ichetucknee Springs where we went tubing and kayaking. So peaceful and relaxing, awesome vacation
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ashly M.

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

Loved this place definitely we'll be back. They are amazing hosts

The property was very clean and organized. Miss Laura even made us blue Berry bread for our breakfast in the morning. Being able to go down the dock and enjoy the river was nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Mike and Laura Null

Host profile image
Mike and Laura are retired from Columbia County School District, Mike, (2016) was a business administrator and Laura, (2012) was K-12, National Board Certified Fine Arts Educator and Adjunt instructor for the local college in Lake City. They love spending our time on all three of the rivers in the area. They have covered many water miles in their kayaks; Mike fishes, catch and release, Laura takes photos of the rivers, limerock bluffs, animals, flora and fauna. Laura is 5th genration Floridian from Tampa, Hillsborough County. Mike is 3rd generation Floridian from Lake City, Columbia County. Laura and Mike have great knowledge of the area and all the nearby places you'll want to see.

Why they chose this property

We purchased this property after looking for a river place for 4+ years to spend our retirement. We split our time between Lake City and our river place due to our community volunteer projects with: the Lake City Columbia County Tennis Association The Orchard Community Church and the Gateway Art Gallery. We love spending time on the river, swimming, kayaking, fishing, and boating. We fell in love the quiet of the natural, wooded, and secluded area. We enjoy watching wildlife, birds, turkey, hawks, and deer. It has been a dream come true to buy a place on the Santa Fe River, the home to many of Florida's most beautiful springs.

What makes this property unique

You will enjoy the peace, and quite of the river, as well as the beauty of nature with amazing wildlife. Located in a rural farming community called Holly Springs, in Gilchrist County, home of three amazing rivers and 70+ gorgeous springs. The cottage is on an a joining lot, 3 acres, with 300 feet on the Santa Fe surrounded by wooded privacy. Enjoy evening walks down the boardwalk to the floating dock, set out the chairs, share a refreshing snack or drink. We thank our Good Lord for the opportunity to enjoy and share this serene cottage with other river lovers.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests