The Yurt at Danville in Geneva, FL

Orlando is home to incredible sprawling resorts where lazy rivers, luxurious spas, and award-winning restaurants are all part of the five-star experience. Sure, any one of them is more than suitable for a weekend staycation, but there's another option for couples who thirst for a more off the beaten path experience.

Part of the Danville Bed & Breakfast in Geneva, FL, The Yurt at Danville is equal parts rustic and romantic. While the round canvas tent may look simple from the outside, the inside is plush with a king-sized Murphy bed, mini kitchen, full bathroom, living room area, table, and more. It's also got A/C, so you can get your camping fix any time of the year. Outside, you'll find a large patio deck, grill, and plenty of seating.

The property, which is owned by Dan and Deborah Shaw, contains three Airbnb rentals. In addition to the yurt, there's also a decorative man cave housed in an airport hangar, and a decked out Inn with multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, and private movie theater room.

During your stay, you'll also have the chance to participate in a multitude of activities including airplane rides, Segways, happy hour, lessons at the shooting range, and more.

After coming across the yurt on Airbnb, I couldn't resist booking it for the night. There's truly no need to travel far from Orlando for vacation when such a unique staycation option exists just 30 minutes away.

Here are a few photos from our stay:

The 21-foot diameter yurt has a private deck with a grill, fire pit, and plenty of seating.

During your stay, make sure you meet your neighbors, resident alpacas Bobo and RJ. They're friendly, and you can hand feed them in the mornings.

Inside the yurt, you'll find a comfy king-size Murphy bed, seating, a TV, table, mini kitchen, and full bathroom.

At the top of the yurt, a large skylight reveals the trees overhead. At night, turn on the icicle lights for your own “shooting star” show.

The owner of the yurt, Dan, offers morning plane rides in his Cessna 172. If you'd like to take a ride, let Dan know. The only charge for the plane ride is cash to contribute to fuel (I paid $20 for a 20-minute ride).

Dan's Cessna is housed inside the property's airplane hanger, which is also home to another Airbnb rental: the Man Cave.

The siding on the main inn building is controlled by a remote. The siding lifts up to reveal Downtown Danville containing shop facades and an Irish pub, O'Shaw's.

Dan and Deborah offer a daily happy hour for all property guests in O'Shaw's. Share a draft beer and get to know the other visitors!

During the day, ride Segways to nearby Lake Harney for scenic views.

On a nice day, cozy up on the patio in your yurt retreat.

In front of the yurt, you'll find a hammock and swing for lazing the afternoon away.

The king bed inside the yurt folds up during the day to create extra space.

The yurt also has a cozy seating nook facing the TV for rainy nights.

Know Before You Go

The Yurt at Danville is available through Airbnb starting at $60/night. With taxes and fees, expect to pay $108 (and up) per night. Weekend rates are slightly higher.

Danville Bed & Breakfast is a very popular wedding venue. The yurt is located right next to the main inn building where weddings are held. Email Dan and Deborah prior to booking to check the wedding schedule. 

Bring along cash for activities. Dan asks that you pitch in for gas if you choose to do an airplane ride (I paid $20 for gas for a 20-minute ride). You'll need $10-15 if you'd like to participate in a lesson at the shooting range. There's no extra charge for Segway usage or happy hour.

Meals aren't offered at the property, so grab the essentials on your way in or plan for meals at nearby restaurants (Sanford is about a 30-minute drive, and there are two local restaurants nearby). The yurt has a grill, firepit, microwave, and mini fridge.

The yurt can be booked online at https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13254891.

The Yurt at Danville

Florida food and travel photographer and writer Stephanie Patterson

About the Author/Photographer:
Stephanie Patterson is a talented professional food and travel photographer and writer with a passion for creativity, the beach and great eats. When she’s not taking photos or writing, you can find her exploring the state for her Florida travel blog, Travel Taste Click. Find her online at www.spattersonphotography.com and www.traveltasteclick.com.