November 2011 - The Plantation on Crystal River – a hidden gem along Florida’s Nature Coast, just 80 miles north of Tampa - recently announced a $3 million renovation to include guest rooms, lobby, dining area and more.

Guest rooms and public spaces at the Plantation on Crystal River are currently undergoing a $3 million facelift.  The majority of guest room renovation, which began in July, is scheduled for completion at the end of December 2011, while the restaurant and lobby will be completed by Jan.15, 2012. Most of the accommodations, including 196 guest rooms and eight junior suites, are being updated, while the restaurant and the lobby will receive a complete renovation. The hotel will be closed to guests Dec. 4-22 and reopen Dec. 23.

The new rooms will convey a sophisticated Old Florida feel, with new curtains and sheers, fresh upholstered chairs, new Sealy mattresses, bedding and wall colors. The color palette throughout the rooms will include crisp whites, deep blues and bright greens reflective of the surrounding Nature Coast. Flat screen TVs, new refrigerators, classic wicker chairs and new sofa sleepers in the junior suites will also be added, while existing furniture will be updated and re-purposed with a more upscale look.

Bringing the beautiful colors of the Crystal River indoors, the refurbished lobby area will feature updated lighting, and furniture in muted blues and greens, along with splashes of warm yellows and oranges. The winding wooden staircase – a favorite for guest photo opportunities – will remain intact.

The new contemporary lobby bar will feature a “grab and go” coffee bar, and will blend nicely with similar colors, complemented by black and white artwork showcasing the scenic river. The resort’s dining room will take on a more casual feel, with an airy ambiance highlighted by new chairs, booths, carpet, artwork and stained concrete floors.

The Palm Room, a 2,304-square foot meeting space located above the lobby area, has also received new carpet, lighting, tile, new windows and a fresh coat of paint.

The renovation is scheduled for completion on January 15, 2012.

The eco-friendly Plantation on Crystal River is surrounded by the natural springs of King’s Bay and more than 25,000 surface acres of pristine lakes and rivers, as well as wildlife refuges and state parks.  On site, the Plantation features a full-service family-oriented dive and tour operation marina, 12,000 square feet of meeting and event space, 18-hole golf course, 9-hole executive course, Aveda spa, delectable dining and inviting accommodations. Guests have the unique opportunity to swim with the manatees, rent a pontoon or Jon boat, relax by the riverfront pool, enjoy a game of croquet on the manicured lawn, or hire a guided fishing charter.

With more than 1,600 feet of seawall, overnight guests can tie up their boats at any of over 80 spaces.  A golf school and SCUBA certification
classes are also available to guests of the hotel.

For group reservations and information, call toll-free (800) 632-6262 or visit www.PlantationonCrystalRiver.com