Vacation Rentals by Owner

Beautiful Vacation Spot

Guest: Loretta (Leicester, NY, USA)
Date of Stay: 03/06/12 Review Submitted: 03/12/12

What a great place to relax in a very private setting! There was 18 of us & we did not feel crowded at all. Lots of room for everyone. A very family friendly vacation spot.

Owner response:Dear Loretta: I am glad that your family enjoyed your vacation week at Villa Del Lago. With 18 family members, you chose the right vacation home for a relaxing time. Best Wishes, Dr. Felker

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

Family Reunion '12

Guest: SD (NJ)
Date of Stay: 03/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/20/12

We just concluded a fantastic experience at Villa Del Lago, where we held our first family reunion in years, and can say with all sincerity that the property and its amenities exceeded the expectations of all 14 of our guests. We were immediately awed by the property upon opening the gates and driving down the winding driveway, past the acres of well manicured grounds, to what can only be described as a palace like house, next to a beautiful guest home. The main house is incredibly well maintained and seemed to have a never ending run of bedrooms and bathrooms to easily accommodate all of our family members comfortably, with some of the rooms being that much more impressive than the others (the master bedroom, bathroom, and balcony are straight out of an episode of Cribs). The outside grounds had such an abundance of space which provided our very active family the opportunity to set up several backyard games, including a full wiffle ball field and separate volleyball and badminton courts, with plenty of room to spare for a separate football game to break out (we probably could've held a complete full camp with all of the room there was on this property). The pool area was also beautiful and although the first day we arrived to several leaves in the pool, the owner promptly called the poolman and we came back from an afternoon excursion to what was an impeccably clean pool. The house also offers two docks that jet out into an incredibly serene private lake, with views that cannot be compared. Additionally, the owner of the property was very easy to deal with and incredibly accommodating, which further added to our experience. Overall, we had an absolutely wonderful experience and would recommend Villa Del Lago to anyone of our friends and family that are looking for an amazing place for a small family outing, or a slightly larger group event.

Owner response:Dear Skender: Thank you for your kind words and we are so happy your family got to enjoy this wonder estate. Dr. Felker

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

A PERFECT place to stay if you are many people travelling together!

Guest: Dominique (Candiac, Québec, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/24/12 Review Submitted: 02/29/12

We were 8 adults and 10 teeanagers staying at Villa Del Lago. We all enjoyed our stay and would recommend this property to any large group of people visiting Tampa. This property is huge. Everything was perfect! The teenagers, parents and coaches will definitively remember their stay at Villa Del Lago.

Owner response:Dear Dominique: We are glad your large family had a great family reunion and all the girls got to play volleyball and enjoy this magnificent estate. We appreciate the kind words we receive from our many guests north of the border. Dr. Alan Felker

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway.

Relax at your next Coorporate Sales meeting

Guest: Chris (We came from FL, TX, GA and AL.)
Date of Stay: 02/11/12 Review Submitted: 02/21/12

We were in shorts and flip flops instead of tie and coats, one of the most productive meetings in 10 years. If you are going to pay $225.00 a room downs town you can all stay here. Take a break from all the noise and cabs and expensive bar tabs. Hungry have Anthony at Stone Chef Catering bring your meal is they are fantastic and his staff goes beyond the call to please. Your creativity is much more focused when you relax and plan important profit centers, it might come to you in the boat who knows.

Owner response:Dear Chris: Thanks for having your corporate guests stay at Villa Del Lago instead of downtown and I am glad Stone Chef Catering delivered. I may recommend them in the future. Alan

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Villa Del Lago

Guest: Jon Heisler (-)
Date of Stay: 01/13/12 Review Submitted: 01/25/12

A group of us recently stayed at Villa Del Lago and were delighted with the accommodations. The villa is set on a stunningly beautiful 5 acre lakefront estate. It's ideal for a family get together or large group of friends. Thank you to Alan and his staff for making our stay most enjoyable. You will not be disappointed. Jon

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Bonnies Family Vacation

Guest: Bonnie (columbia, mo)
Date of Stay: 06/18/11 Review Submitted: 07/02/11

I would definitely would recommend this property to anyone for reunions, family vacation or just a get away. The property is beautiful and well maintained. It is located close enough to tourist attractions and yet is very private. Alan, thank you for sharing your home with my family.

Owner response:Dear Bonnie Thank you for staying with us and we are glad your family got to enjoy this magnificient estate.Best to you. Alan

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful Property

Guest: cav (sarasota, florida)
Date of Stay: 04/09/11 Review Submitted: 04/23/11

We had a wedding at this property. The location and accomodations are great for an event. However, there seems to be some severe hostility between the owner and the neighbors. They are not pleased about him renting this property. They 1st came over in the early afternoon to advise us it was illegal to rent private property for events, and that we would be sorry. Then once they heard the wedding beginning by the processional music in the afternoon, they started setting off car alarms, blowing air horns none stop. This was very unpleasant when two people are trying to say their vows. Then once the sunset, they started flashing spotlights over the fence into everyone's eyes. We tried to talk to them, but they were very hostile. It was sad that these people are so immature to do actions like these, especially considering he is a Doctor in St. Petersburg. Besides that and the owner showing the property to prospective tenants when everyone was trying to get ready for the wedding(very annoying). Great setting for a wedding/reception.

Owner response:Dear Cav: Thank you for your kind comments about how great the location and accomodations are. I do apologize for the neighbor's childish activities. Prior Guests had disturbed him and played loud music all night. The property was shown to prospective guests at 2:00 in the afternoon, prior to the 4:00 check in time and an early check was permitted with no extra charge. We apologize for the intrusion. We are happy that you felt like this was Great Setting for a wedding reception. Best of luck to both of you. Dr.Felker

Recommended for:Age 55+

Great Palace near Tampa

Guest: Greg (Falls Church, VA)
Date of Stay: 03/24/11 Review Submitted: 04/06/11

We did a bachelor party at this home and it was great. Alan provided personal instruction on how to use the many amenities that this property offers. There is tons of space to accomodate many guests. Its hard to not get lost on the 5 acre lot. About 20-25 mins to downtown Tampa, so we were able to get transportation down for festivities. Far enough away from neighbors so you have the place all to yourself. We had a great time and would love to come down to Odessa again.

Owner response:Dear Greg: Glad you and your friends had a great bachelor party. Perhaps your bride to be would consider the wedding at Villa Del Lago. Best of luck. Alan

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway.

accurate

Guest: Matt (New York, New York)
Date of Stay: 02/17/11 Review Submitted: 02/22/11

Went there with a group of 16 and had an awesome time. Beautiful house on a great property, plenty of room and very isolated. Ended up hanging out outside, enjoying the views of the water, cooking and grilling, and taking group trips to go golfing, casinos, bars and restaurants. One knock on this place it the technology is just OK, would love to see some new TVs and audio equipment around the house. Loved the experience, great house and great location.

Owner response:Dear Matt: I am glad you and the your friends had a great time. The housekeeper appreciated the attention and compliments. Thank you for choosing Villa Del Lago for your golfing vacation venue. Alan

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

Wonderful experience

Guest: Bree (Sarasota, fl)
Date of Stay: 02/07/11 Review Submitted: 02/20/11

We recently had a wedding reception and ceremony at villa del lago and couldn't have enjoyed it more. The accommodations were excellent, the house was beautiful and perfect for an elegant wedding reception. The owner is very attentive and promt to any concerns and issues that may have arose. We definitely recommend this rental property!

Owner response:Congratulations on your wonderful wedding. When we returned and noticed all the beautiful flowers around the front porch, we knew your wedding planner did an outstanding job decorating and making the estate even more beautiful. I would recommend her as well. Alan

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

10th Wedding Anniversary Party!

Guest: Kelli (Tampa, Fl.)
Date of Stay: 01/14/11 Review Submitted: 01/18/11

What a Weekend!!!!! Our family and friends came to Villa Del Lago Estate to celebrate my brother and sister's 10th wedding anniversary and from beginning to end the weekend was amazing! Where do I begin? For starters, I would really like Dr. Alan Felker to post a picture of the master suite. I could write a three paragraph review on it alone; the view from the bathroom, the large romantic balcony and the bed that has more gadgets than you'll know what to do with, there is so much character behind the doors of the master suite. The rest of the mansion is equally as beautiful. Each room is it's own hideaway. Again, there is so much detail to observe... every nook and cranny has been given proper attention. The grounds are perfectly maintained. This home is perfect for all occasions! You can't beat it! Dr. Alan Felker was readily available for all of our questions before and during our stay. Unanswered phone calls were returned within minutes. We had a slight misunderstanding regarding our check out time and again, Dr. Alan was more than accommodating. The misunderstanding worked in our favor because it caused Dr. Alan to come on site for a showing. After the showing, all of our guest (including our children) got a free boat ride on his boat! Several got to watch (from the boat) the sun set on the beautiful lake. Icing on the cake! The house is fully stocked with dishes, towels, soap, dish detergent, soap powder, etc. Just bring yourself and be prepared for a great time and an unforgettable event. Don't think about it, just book it! If you don't get an opportunity to meet Karen (Dr. Felker's right hand) just leave her a diet mountain dew and a slice of cake in the fridge:-) Thanks for everything Dr. Felker. I'm sure we will see you again:-) Valencia's Family...

Owner response:Dear Kelli, Valencia, Dr. Hot and Cold,(too many names to remember) , children, and all your wonderful Friends and Family: Thank you for your unsolicited over the top review. It was a beautiful warm day in January and perfect to take the boat out. With all the children just hanging out on the boat dock. Why not, and I am so glad you all got to see and enjoy this beautiful lake. Best part was when I arrived early, your friend said, Are you going to end the party, and I said to her, no, I 'm going to join the party. I told Karen you were the nicest group of Guests we have had. All the best to all of you, Alan and Karen

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Unwinding

Guest: Bear (Hinesville, Ga)
Date of Stay: 01/07/11 Review Submitted: 01/15/11

A few friends and myself rented this property after a long deployment to Iraq. It was exactly what we were looking for. We were close enough to the city but far enough away to not be bothered. The property was outstanding.

Owner response:Dear Anthony and Servicemen: I am glad that you were able to unwind and enjoy my home while on leave from duty. Thank you for your service to our country. Although I never met any of you, I wish you well and a safe return home. Dr. Alan Felker

Recommended for:Girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wedding at the Mansion

Guest: gayle (Swampscott, MA)
Date of Stay: 12/01/10 Review Submitted: 12/09/10

We were so lucky to find Villa Del Lago. For the price of a hotel rental hall, we stumbled across this magnificient estate. An estate of this magnitude was a rare find in Tampa. The grounds were manicured with specimen palms, and overlooked a beautiful lake. Upon entering the mansion, if felt like small castle. The marble floors and circular staircase was breathtakin. My family and guests couldn't stop talking about how beautiful the estate was. We had 100 happy guests who enjoyed this beautiful property. The owner was very friendly and helpful. We would highly recommend this property for a special event or wedding.

Owner response:Dear Gayle: Thank you for your kind words. I knew you would have absolutely fantastic event and happy birthday. All the best to you. Alan

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Wedding celebration - great family event on a beautiful property

Guest: Wedding-Celebration (Florida)
Date of Stay: 11/19/10 Review Submitted: 12/09/10

My wife and I celebrated our wedding at "Vila Del Lago". The homes (main house plus detached house) were a perfect way to have our families co-located during the weekend event. You'll find the property exactly as described: it is comfortable and accommodating, has wide-open spaces, large jacuzzi, beautiful interior styling that photographs very well, multiple piers, and more. The owner is friendly and easy to work with. He helped us to make this a perfect weekend getaway and wedding celebration!

Owner response:Dear Mr. and Mrs. Justin Hall: Thank you for your kind words and congratulations on your wedding. It was pleasure to meet your wonderful family and in-laws. Feel free to keep in touch. Sincerly, Dr. Felker

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A memorable place

Guest: Jeff and Mimi (Florida)
Date of Stay: 09/27/10 Review Submitted: 10/23/10

We wanted someplace memorable for our wedding and also a comfortable place for out-of-towners --to give them a taste of Florida and a place to unwind and get to know each other. Vila Del Lago delivered. We had plenty of room, and our guests never stopped talking about the beautiful grounds, house and furnishings. Our week there wound up being like a miniretreat. You really feel like you're getting away, and there so many great settings for large and small groups. But you're not really that far out of the city. We especially liked that the house was just 20 minutes from the airport. That made it easy for people flying in. We're just starting to get photos back from the wedding, but we've been blown away by how much the setting added to shots we'll be looking at and sharing for years to come. Bonus: The owner's a nice guy -- very easy to deal with and accommodating.

Owner response:Dear Jeff and Mimi: Thank you for your kind words. I knew your wedding would be special, especially how you set up the reception in the front of the house and that was really cool with the live band on the lakeside terrace. Can't wait to see the photos, also. Best of luck and much happiness in your marrage Alan

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Greatest vacations ever!!!

Guest: Alex (New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 09/03/10 Review Submitted: 09/08/10

This place is hard to describe,pics doesn't do this place any justice.Starting with the owner,you get all the privacy you want he is there to help if anything,but otherwise if you are like me that like privacy this is your heaven.The house is amazing,gorgeous,inviting,very well decore and simply leaves you speechless.I had a family reunion there and all of my family had a great time,the only bad thing was that we couldn't stay any longer,other than that these were the best vacation I had so far,not the last since I will rent this beautiful home again,but for a whole week this time.Thank you so much Alan for all your help and making this the most private and wonderful vacation of my family!!!!

Owner response:Dear Alex: Even though I never met you, I am so glad that your family had a wonderful reunion. You are one of many families that have had reunions here and all were just as overwhelmed and happy as you. Funny thing is I am from New Jersey, but move here 30 years ago.Just love Florida. Thanks for your kind comments. Sincerly, Dr. Felker

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Amazing Place

Guest: Chuck (Chattanooga TN)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/27/10

This place is awesome. Very private, very nice. Excellent for a romantic getaway or second honeymoon.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.