Susie and Herb are among the most wonderful people ever. The house and garden and pool are so inviting. Susie brought me one treat after another, so the experience is a feast for your eyes, your belly (If you are lucky you may get her special meatloaf) and your soul. If you have the opportunity stay here. Your only regret will be if you miss out on this incredible experience!

Aug 2020

We really enjoyed our stay here. There are several comfortable sitting areas in the house to read, watch tv, or look out at the trees and garden. The pool is private and has multiple seating choices so you can move from sun to shade as desired. An easy walk to the downtown historic street and a short drive to the beach area. Didn’t try the supplied bikes though. Our trip was cut short due to the corona virus and so we did not get to continue our exploration of the area. Will try to get back. Great hosts - welcoming, helpful, and friendly.

Mar 2020

Very nice week even though weather was coolish a few days.

Mar 2020

The guest house is dressed to the 9s with something unique in every gaze! If that's not enough, the gardens are remarkably groomed and well appointed with statuary . As you stroll through the property, the secluded pool and gardens become apparent and then you notice a fairy garden tucked in just behind your lounge area. All a feast for your enjoyment.

Suzie and Herb were the perfect hosts offering suggestions to local festivals and attractions. We even received a call to come outside on the dock to view a Spacex rocket launch.

Nov 2019

Susie and Herb were both delightful and helpful with: current events, points of interest, restaurants, while providing navigable directions.

The beautifully refurbished enchanted carriage house itself is a nested getaway when sun, sand and surf need a slight retreat. The secluded pool is concealed within the garden providing an oasis from the world.

The 508 botanical gardens are a bit of Heaven’s reserve, and I cannot paint the appropriate prose to describe them adequately! They were worth every minute of exploration I invested in them: both night and day!

Aug 2019

The owners, Susie and Herb were warm, friendly and accommodating. We were delighted to find a nice gift basket filled with goodies, even treats for our dogs and a nice bottle of wine! One afternoon Susie even brought us over a DELICIOUS pot of her homemade chili!

The grounds are beautiful and the pool is perfect and secluded.

Jul 2019

We had a very nice time. They are fantastic hosts. The house and property are adorable, we enjoyed the pool very much.

Jun 2019

My husband and I stayed in this adorable home with an absolutely beautiful garden of true heaven. We truly love Susie and Herb! We will be returning for another relaxing visit. Susie and Herb are such wonderful host.They had gifts for us and our pups upon our arrival and made us a lovely jambalaya lunch one day. I loved the pool too, even though I couldn't swim in it as much as I would've liked to. The property is so heavenly. They were very informative about places to see and visit which is always a great thing when it's your first time visiting the area. I highly recommend them and their beautiful private home. Can't wait for our next visit!

Jun 2019

The owners were special the gardens superb and the little house charming!

We truly enjoyed our sty!!!

Jun 2019

The home was everything we hoped for and more. There wasn't an item we were lacking. Two wonderful hosts. We had hoped for warmer weather to use the pool, however, we did enjoy the serene pool setting for lounging and reading a good book. The dock and fire pit were great and we were able to sit out on the river for drinks in the evening and during the day enjoyed fishing. We could not have asked for a better location to enjoy all the amenities of the area and the best was we were close to our family and friends.

Dec 2018

My husband and I recently enjoyed our second stay at the charming Carriage House. This cozy cottage features comfy furniture, antiques, art, collectibles, and stained glass that all meld together to create a warm and unique atmosphere. There is beautiful landscaping surrounding the entire estate, a tropical and tranquil swimming pool area, and even an enchanting fairy garden. You can wander the pathways or view all of this beauty from the second story deck. The entire historic property is lovingly maintained by the wonderful owners and hosts, Susie and Herb, who care about every detail of the vacation experience. We truly loved every aspect of our relaxing retreat at this very special piece of paradise!!

Oct 2018

An amazing getaway location tucked in a quiet neighborhood shrouded in beauty and quiet. Herb and Susie are phenomenal hosts who ensure you want for nothing during your stay. Can't wait until until the next getaway!

Aug 2018

We had a great time. We recommend this to anyone who would like to visit NS. We will always visit with the Herb and Susie Rittger when coming to NS, they are wonderful folks that went out of their way to make us feel welcome.

Aug 2018

What a vacation, first you drive up to a private cottage that is hidden in a beautiful garden among the prettiest oak trees with Spanish moss everywhere. We also had are own pool in which we enjoyed every minute. Herb and Susie are a class act that make every second of your vacation carefree and relaxing..5 stars to a vacation we won't forget, herb and Susie thank you and we will return soon..

Jul 2018

The cottage is one of the most unique private getaways surrounded by formal gardens, a private pool that words could never describe ...certainly a sanctuary for travelers who desire A RARE EXPERIENCE. Once you leave the the property you realize the owners' exquisite personal attention to detail ...and preserving history. Here you're insulated from the rest of the world to restore and inspire while visiting one of Florida's most precious historic your doorstep. If you're fortunate you'll be able to visit again if there is an open date on the calendar. My hubby and I will never forget our week here in paradise. Suzi and Herb embrace their guests like long lost family, thinking ahead to everything that one could need for comfort ...and genuine hospitality.

Jul 2018

5 stars does not give this property enough recognition for excellence. Yes the house was clean. The garden area magnificent. The pool secluded, private and of course as with everything else clean and comfortable. The private dock space across the street is a wonderful place to put your feet up and watch the boats and the dolphins. With that being said, I highly recommend you not only consider this property but you actually book it. Why? Well the above should be enough of a reason, however there is an ace in the hole, so to speak, concerning this property. That is the true to heart welcoming feeling you will have during your stay because of the owners Herb and Susie. They are SO NICE and they truly care about you enjoying your time there and will do anything to to make it happen. We truly feel we now have 2 friends in New Smyrna Beach Fl. Looking forward to seeing you both again as soon as possible.

Jul 2018

The title says it all. No disappointments.

Jun 2018

This lovely carriage house sits on a historic estate from around 1883. The entire property is beautifully restored, maintained, and landscaped by the owners and hosts, Susie and Herb. They were very friendly, attentive, and concerned about every detail of our stay without ever being intrusive. Their tireless and caring work make this property shine as a delightful vacation retreat. Flowers, plants, fountains, statues, swimming pool, and a fairy garden are all on full display. The carriage house is filled with stained glass, antiques, and many other interesting, decorative pieces that make it a unique place to stay. We loved the charm, comfort, beauty, and relaxation of this special slice of paradise and are planning a return trip soon!

Jun 2018

Susie and Herb are so friendly and easy to talk to. We had everything we could need including a pool and bikes for exercise. They work very hard on their lovely yard as you can see in the pictures. Great place to just RELAX! Thanks Susie and Herb, you are so sweet!

May 2018

There are no words to describe how beautiful and amazing the home , pool and garden are. Please go and see for yourself. You will not be disappointed in any way. Herb and Susie are amazing people, and now friends. You will fall in love with them as soon as you meet them. They have thought of everything to make your stay perfect!!!

May 2018