I'm thinking my wife and I might be able to duck out for a week or two around Xmas... we've done a lot of metric centuries, a lot of single day self-supported rides. I think we'd really enjoy a lightweight, stay in hotels kind of multi-day ride. Any thoughts?

It doesn't have to be Florida, I'm just thinking we're east coasters and that would make it easy for us.

Anyone?

RE: Adventure Cycling, East coast route/Florida connector. More details available upon request..Glenn

Go to the American Cycling Association site for preplanned routes that you can modify to suit your interest.

As you indicated you would consider options other than Fld, the Southwest can be good touring country in December. No rain likely, temps usually moderate, and low humidity. I'm sorta familiar with the Tuscon, AZ area. Look into a DIY routing south of there to old west Tombstone, about 100 miles. The roads are good and not real busy. Kartchner Carverns State Park is in the area. Real nice place. Hope to do it myself one day.

I would look at the northern part of the state into southern GA if traffic is a consideration.
There are some long rails to trails sections that you could include. Check out crazyguyonabike journals.

Thanks everybody, for the great feedback. I'm inspired now, by the resources.

Florida has many routes you could take in the winter time. My advise would be to ride from north to south as the prevailing fronts come in from the northwest and riding against those would not make for good progress. The pan handle area is very nice with large beaches and is off the beaten path so to speak. I would suggest you find a map of the Florida Rails to Trails and you would be able to cover quite a bit of ground. https://www.railstotrails.org/index.h...FYNX2god_GUvSQ
Just keep in mind that everyone comes to Florida in the winter so book early in the areas you think you might want to stay. Cedar Key on the west coast is another really nice area with lots of history and your not far from a trail system that would take you up to the Jacksonville area or south through St. Pete / Tampa. Adventure Cycling has a map that covers Florida and that would be a good resource. Temps might be hard to plan for as it can be as cold as the 30's or as warm as the 70's+.

Best of luck and enjoy your ride.

May want to consider flying into Ft Myers......cycle on Day 1 to Marco Island, Day 2 to Homestead, Day 3 to Marathon, and Day 4 to Key West....spend a few days in Key West, then take the Hi-Speed ferry back to Ft Myers Beach......if you reserve in advance, they will take bikes on the boat......