“THE world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” — the immortal words of St Augustine. I decided to take heed of that wisdom and visit somewhere I’d never even heard of, far less visited. 11 The Omni Amelia Island Resort boasts stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean Credit: Mark O'Tyson 11 We saddled up for a guided horseback ride along the Atlantic coastline 11 The stylish Ritz-Carlton hotel has luxurious spa and wellness facilities Credit: Danay Curtis 11 The Omni has 402 airy guest rooms and suites overlooking the Amelia Island beach Credit: The Zimmerman Agency From pristine beaches to historic districts, northeast Florida boasts the Sunshine State’s best-kept secrets — all a far cry from the thrills and spills of the theme parks.

And I knew I’d made the right decision to ‘go where I’d never gone before’ when I arrived in the utterly, drop-dead gorgeous Amelia Island. And it just got better when I checked into the Omni Amelia Island Resort. The hotel is an oasis of moss-draped oak trees and lavish greenery, with stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean on offer at check-in.

The barrier island, a mere 13 miles long, offers a tranquil getaway. It remains largely untouched and undeveloped in a nice way, bar the luxury oceanfront resorts and intimate bed and breakfasts. Read more travel Hidden gem hotel with a tea house and 20 acres of gardens named best in Scotland GO SEA IT One of the UK's best seaside towns reveals plans to reopen much-.