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The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL

Photo gallery for The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL

Front with balcony
View from the balcony
Front yard
Kayaks
Kayaks and paddle boards

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Scenic water view
    Relax and unwind with top-rated water views, offering a scenic experience.
  • A quiet escape
    Guests like the location for the peace and quiet.
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View in a map
Melrose, FL
  • Place, Santa Fe Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, University of Florida
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Place, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
    ‪34 min drive‬
  • Airport, Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional)
    ‪22 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Downstairs

1 Queen Bed

Sunroom

2 Twin Beds

Upstairs

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Downstairs

Toilet · Shower only

Upstairs

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL

The Nest is a beautiful two-story cottage on Lake Santa Fe. Enjoy some peace and serenity, catch monster bass, or bring your ski boat for high-speed fun. We are located just 20 minutes from Gainesville and UF. The Nest is great for a weekend getaway or a week of peaceful relaxation. We do not allow parties or events out of respect for our neighbors and we allow a maximum of 6 guests (max 4 adults). Absolutely no animals are allowed on the property at any time for any reason.

Enjoy an amazing view of the lake from the spacious upstairs living room, or sip your morning coffee while watching the sunrise on our balcony. The master bedroom with queen bed and a full bathroom are also on the second floor. The ground level has a well-appointed kitchen, a second bedroom with queen bed, a dining area, a sunroom with twin trundle beds, and a laundry room with a washer and dryer. Head down to the dock for some relaxation or socializing and throw out a line to reel in catfish, bass and brim. At the Nest, you will find a peace and serenity that is hard to come by. Our kitchen has everything you will need for those who love to cook, or there are some great restaurants just minutes away in Melrose. We have a full array of books, games and puzzles, as well as wireless internet and a TV/DVD/Fire stick. There are toys, booster seats, and special cups and dishes for the little ones. We have three adult kayaks, one youth kayak, and two paddleboards for your enjoyment. View osprey nests, otters, bald eagles and plenty of other wildlife as you paddle around the shore. Swim or float off the dock, or if you prefer, there is a public swimming area that can be accessed from the water or by land in Melrose Bay. We hope that you will find The Nest as charming, relaxing and refreshing as we do!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please do dishes
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2405100
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Melrose

Located in Melrose, this cottage is on the waterfront. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and Thomas Center are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Stephen C. O'Connell Center or Gainesville Raceway. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing, kayaking, and water skiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours.
View more Cottages in MelroseOpens in a new window
Map
Melrose, FL

What's nearby

  • Santa Fe Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - 24 min drive - 31.8 km
  • University of Florida - 31 min drive - 38.0 km
  • Ben Hill Griffin Stadium - 34 min drive - 39.4 km
  • Oaks Mall - 41 min drive - 46.0 km

Getting around

  • Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Stone’s Irish Pub - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Florida Cracker Oyster Bar & Grill - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Hardee's - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL?

As of Jun 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL on Jul 6, 2026 start from $243, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Nest on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, FL located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Santa Fe Lake and within 12 mi (20 km) of Santa Fe River and Waldo Motorsports. Ironwood Golf Course and Clear Lake are also within 16 mi (25 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 30 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 30 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

DAVID D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Had a great time! When we were at the property we were out on the dock fishing and relaxing. Very peaceful being on the lake, house was great.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great slice of heaven.
I loved that tree
Sunrise was spectacular
Go Gators
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about it worked out well it’s a beautiful place with a beautiful pier and lake access. Will probably return next year.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful views of the lake. Peaceful and quiet area for relaxing. The home was a perfect place to relax.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Basic E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy, clean cottage on the lake with amazing sunrise views. We really enjoyed the daily visits from the cranes. Great place for our relaxing winter retreat. Great spot for water sports during warmer weather. Groceries and restaurants are within a 10-minute drive, and larger cities are nearby.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy check-in and a beautiful, well-maintained property. The neighborhood was quiet, friendly, and very welcoming. The home had the essentials, so we planned a quick shopping trip, which was easy since a nearby Winn-Dixie is close by.The lake was fantastic — great fishing (bass, mudfish, and pike), and we loved using the kayaks and paddleboats. Overall, it was a wonderful stay, and our family would absolutely return.
Sunsets in the lake are gorgeous
Bass
Yard
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mickey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time at the nest. Was perfect for our quick weekend getaway. Spent lots of time on the huge dock and upstairs family room. Really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
The place was cute and the dock view was amazing. But the neighborhood was a little sketchy due to the 14-year-old and some conversations he had with my children, but overall a great experience, even though we didn’t spend too much time in the house because we were there for the game.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 3, 2025
The neighborhood is not at all sketchy. I am sorry a neighbors kid had an unsettling conversation with your kids. Please contact me to further discuss. Thanks!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second visit to The Nest, and this time we brought the kids. We loved watching them swing, wade, play games, and kayak. Eating dinner on the dock is a must! This is the perfect location for quiet family fun and relaxation.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana G.

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

Our rest at The Nest

Perfect location- easy drive to Gainesville, yet peaceful and tranquil. Perfectly comfortable and inviting.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

sabrina k.

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

Lake get away

Cute cabin. Nice view. Loved the cover dock, just needed more fans and a frig. Kids loved the kayaks and paddle boards.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen W.

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

Beautiful setting

House was very clean and well organized. Beautiful lake and dock area. We enjoyed our time!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

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

Great get away

Great place and comfy. Water and dock was very comfortable and nice equipped. All supplies need was there. Loved it.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Herman K.

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

Graduation Weekend

The Nest is a perfect place to gather with friends and family. The house is immaculate, and the Dock is perfect for gathering the family together to experience the beautiful sunrise on the lake.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Linda M.

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

Sunrise at the Nest

If you're an early bird and enjoy watching the sun rise over a peaceful lake, then you'll enjoy the east facing location of The Nest. Very clean and well-appointed, comfortable, with a great dock complete with a table for alfresco dining and chairs for lounging both under shade or not...what more can one ask for? Maybe a tad more distance from the next door neighbor? Not a big negative as they were exceptionally quiet for a family with young children. Given the fact that the two cottages were of similar style and the side entrances faced each other, we wondered if the Nest had been part of a family compound. There was tons of stuff to do in the area if you got tired of lake activities... hiking, biking, river paddles, etc. We enjoyed our stay. Note: we found out upon arrival that the queen beds were memory foam of which we are not fans and there was a note recommending bottled water for drinking so you might want to come with an initial supply.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

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

Peace and Tranquility

We loved our extended stay at The Nest! The property manager/owner reached out to us prior to our stay with all the pertinent information for our arrival. When needed, we could easily get in touch with him and found him to be quite informative. Their home is comfortable and impeccably kept! The Nest is located on Lake Santa Fe with stunning views of the water from the dock and the house. Most mornings we were greeted by a beautiful sunrise over the lake and spent many hours exploring all this lake had to offer in our kayaks. Their dock has both a covered and open space to enjoy the passing of boats, splashing of fish, and a variety of birds. The house has a large, comfortable living room with a deck overlooking the lake, a wonderful space to relax, after a busy day out and about! Check out the lights on the lake after sunset! The neighbors and the community of Melrose were warm and welcoming! They were quick to offer a greeting and extend an invitation to join them in various activities happening in their town. If you are looking for a cozy, family oriented home, then The Nest is the place for you! We would definitely stay again and highly recommend it!
Stayed 56 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris S.

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

A true hidden gem

What a gem. I graduated in 2008 and have always envisioned finding a place outside of Gainesville that would combine the peace and majesty of rural north florida and the magnetic bustle of a city and university I fell in love with. This was just that. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chad C.

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

Great time

Great place to stay. Loved the kayaks and lake front.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle P.

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

Family Getaway

The Nest provided a perfect stay for our family of 5 (including 3 boys) for a weekend getaway. The home was immaculately clean, and thoughtfully decorated and setup with all amenities you could need. The boat dock and access to the lake and fishing was the best! The hosts were great with communication and ensuring we had everything we needed for our stay. We plan to come back again!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

john r.

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

So much fun!

So clean and equipped with everything to cook and enjoy! We were 3 couples who have been friends for over 50 years! The guys loved fishing and the girls loved relaxing on the wonderful dock, kayaking, cooking, and enjoying the beauty! Wish I could show you the huge bass that we caught from the dock!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristen C.

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

Cute…Clean..Comfortable!!!!

My family of 4 and family friend enjoyed our stay at The Nest. We were shocked how comfortable our stay was. The house feels bigger on the inside with tons of space upstairs. The house was also immaculately clean and the views were amazing. We hope to rent again in the summer.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Norrine R.

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

Loved “The Nest”!

What a cute place and the view of the lake is amazing! We especially appreciated the kayaks and the life jackets.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dana S.

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

Lakeside Escape

Cozy and quiet getaway. Surprising amount of sleeping options. Had 7 people over with no problem.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Unique lake cottage

The home on lake Sant Fe has traits of old style lake cottage with modern amenities. Decorations & furnishings make it feel cozy. The view of the lake was amazing. The owners make you feel at home.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

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

Nice

Very pleasant
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2022

About the host

Hosted by Richard Dreher

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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