In Manatee County, some waterfront neighborhoods are more special than others. Such is the case with Winding River in Bradenton, an exclusive community on the banks of the Manatee River.

Winding River is a specialty neighborhood developed by various local builders, including Arthur Rutenberg and Bruce Williams Homes; it is located about 10 miles east of Downtown Bradenton, just north of Upper Manatee Road. This community will particularly appeal to boaters thanks to its comfortable and private boat launch, but there are other amenities and features that make Winding River perfect for all prospective homeowners.

With only 62 home sites spread across 107 acres, Winding River will appeal to house hunters who are looking for real estate that is both spacious and luxurious. In 2016, construction-ready waterfront lots are available for $140K. A three-bedroom listing with 2.5 bathrooms and a three-car garage built on 3,133 square feet of interior space was listed for $765K in early 2016; this particular listing is an upscale model built by Bruce Williams in 2013, and it is also the winner of the 2014 Parade of Home for the best gourmet kitchen.

All homes at Winding River have been lavishly built with custom cabinetry, designer lighting, luxury faucets, window treatments, crown molding, quartz and granite counter tops, private swimming pools, elaborate lanais, and more. The architectural styles are a mix of Caribbean and Mediterranean, and the community landscaping features native and tropical plant species. Nearly all homes have stunning greenbelt or riverfront views.

Along with the boat launch that leads to the Manatee River, neighbors also enjoy various nature preserves connected by well-kept trails. The nearest shopping center can be found about 2.5 miles away from the entrance; it is anchored by a Publix supermarket.

Winding River listings do not come on the market too frequently; for this reason, house hunters should work closely with their real estate agents when a listing becomes available in this neighborhood.