MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME

About Us

 
 

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It all began with a dream...

MEET YOUR HOST, KRIS HARTLAND

Greetings from our favorite spot in the Sunshine State!

My name is Kris. My husband Bob and I had a long-time goal of finding a special place that inspired reflection, rest and recreation. We wanted fully embrace and enjoy Florida’s beauty and have time and space to dream new dreams and contemplate next steps. We’ve always enjoyed entertaining and traveling and we wanted to combine those with our passion for family and faith.

When we found Emerald House with its attractive Florida-style architecture and natural surroundings, it provided that platform to live the life of hospitality and purpose we had envisioned. Thus Riverbend Retreat Fla became a reality.

The property was purchased in Dec. 2017 and we have refreshed and renewed it. We are always looking for ways to groom and enhance the grounds and make the property more accommodative to our guests. We are a fully licensed B&B and members of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

My husband and I with some of our family at the dock right before purchasing the home

My husband and I with some of our family at the dock right before purchasing the home

We are available to host from 1 to 18 guests, with the Guest House accommodating up to 7, and 3 individual rooms for 1-2 guests available in the main house. Our most comfortable arrangements are for groups of 10 -12 enjoying both buildings. Our comfortable Tempur-Pedic beds can be set up with two twins or as a king.

Features include fireplaces, pool, spa, ping pong, chess, board games and books, musical instruments, Peloton Plus and exercise equipment, yoga mats, karaoke, fire pit, gazebo, putting green, dock, fishing poles, kayaks and paddle board.

We can arrange guided tours, boat rides and private dining with a complimentary breakfast basket or tray included. We also have EV chargers for Tesla or other electric cars. And you can visit the Riverbend Retreat - Fla. rabbits, T-Rex and Teddy on the screened back porch of Emerald House.

When my husband, Bob, and I are here, we are happy to be available to you. We are friendly, yet professional. Bob and I are both in our 60s and still work full-time.

Our goal of hosting retreats and entertaining friends and family has expanded to invite you and other friends we have yet to meet. So, if you’d like to experience what Florida and our family have to offer, we invite you to become part of our dream.

Two of my grandchildren doing stretching on the dock

Two of my grandchildren doing stretching on the dock

Cheers! My Mom loves staying here sometimes too. Watching sunset on the dock is her favorite time.

Cheers! My Mom loves staying here sometimes too. Watching sunset on the dock is her favorite time.

Family enjoying the kayaks on the Alafia River!

Family enjoying the kayaks on the Alafia River!

My oldest daughter, Jen, and my son-in-law, Jared Blake (yes, from The Voice!)

My oldest daughter, Jen, and my son-in-law, Jared Blake (yes, from The Voice!)

A fox we happened to catch a picture of a few houses down from ours!

A fox we happened to catch a picture of a few houses down from ours!

Our assistant, Barrett, enjoying the ping-pong table!

Our assistant, Barrett, enjoying the ping-pong table!

 

 

 

Greetings from Riverview, Florida!

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OUR LOCATION

Riverbend Retreat is a convenient hideaway just a mile off I-75 and near to plenty of shopping, restaurants and entertainment, yet secluded by the Alafia River on two sides an a 80-acre preserve on another. Enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking or relaxing in the hammock or on the deck.

We've caught glimpses of many different forms of wildlife (recently, a fox!) For fisherman, they can enjoy our river filled with Sheepshead, Red Snapper, Speckled Trout, Snook, Spotted Bass and Florida Gar.

We have only one adjacent neighbor. Our neighborhood is agriculturally zoned and you'll see horses, cattle and chickens on your drive in. 

This unique property lends itself to a tranquil adventurous time to breath and stretch. We look forward to sharing this true Florida experience with you!

Getting around

Come by car or boat. We have plenty of parking or docking for either. It is easy to get around Riverview. We are about 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport and an hour either way to Disney or the Gulf beaches.

It is easy to get around, but you don't really have to go anywhere because there is so much to enjoy right here!

PLEASE NOTE: Viewing of the property is by appointment or reservation only. If you would like to schedule a viewing appointment prior to your stay, please call Kris Hartland at (727) 421-9512.

 
 
 
 
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If you want to explore the area some more, feel free to check out our personal recommendations!
View our 'Plan Your Trip' page.

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