Fodor's Expert Review Hickatee Cottages

Just a mile (1½ km) from downtown Punta Gorda, this delightful small lodge has bright, lovely Caribbean-style cottages with zinc roofs and private verandas; it's nestled in lush jungle foliage where you'll hear howler monkeys and see a wide variety of birds. The cottages are beautifully outfitted with locally made furniture and hardwood floors. There's a small splash pool and a botanical garden and nature area. A special treat: once a week you can go with the co-owner to visit the nearby Fallen Stones butterfly farm, which he manages.