7 storybook homes, cabins and cottages for fairy-tale vacations
Once upon a time…there was a family searching for a storybook escape. One day they found our list of seven fairy-tale cottages, woodland cabins and enchanting homes perfect for all kinds of fanciful group adventures. And they all vacationed happily ever after.
Storybook cottage in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Go the literal literary route! The sign in front of this 3-bedroom charmer reads “Storybook Cottage.” There’s also a separate 1-bedroom space called “Short Story” connected by a sprawling private deck. Imagine strolling through the gardens while taking in dreamy views of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve…with an idyllic seaside village as the backdrop, of course.
See a magical stay by the sea >
Hobbit house in Essex, UK
Hello, Frodo! Bring your LOTR fantasies to life at this luxury hobbit hole in the heart of England’s picturesque Rother Valley. Tolkien fans will appreciate the hole’s authentic features like the oak door, the grass growing on the roof and the four portal windows. Everyone else will love the underfloor heating, the hot tub and the scenic vineyard views.
Creekside cabin in Idyllwild, CA
Picture yourselves frolicking with woodland creatures outside this fanciful creekside retreat in the San Jacinto Mountains. With well-appointed living spaces and a spacious wraparound deck complete with a hot tub, there’s no need for sacrificing mod cons to be at one with nature here. Because escaping to a cabin in the woods is especially enchanting when it’s this comfortable.
Journey into Fern Valley forest >
Witchy cottage in South East Queensland, AU
Australia’s Tamborine Mountain is a spellbinding spot, and this upscale cottage in the Hinterland is brimming with witchy details. Think curious hand-carved etchings, windows displaying pentagrams and quirky stonework throughout. Guests are encouraged to sample the herb garden. Maybe to find ingredients for magic potions and spells to cast around the open fireplace?
Old-world cabin in Wilson, WY
Nestled into the mountainside near Jackson Hole, this swoon-worthy storybook cabin comes with loads of distinctive finishes and architectural elements. Imagine marble accents galore, from fixtures to floors, a bar with seating for six by a wood-burning fireplace off the kitchen and a glass walkway providing stunning views of the landscape. There’s even a cozy writer’s nook if you’re feeling inspired.
Country cottage in Norfolk, UK
It’s the stuff of 19th-century English novels with a modern twist: a restored fairy-tale cottage in the countryside with an iPad dock in the bespoke kitchen. The lodge’s interior has been stylishly updated without taking away from its historical charm. When you’re not soaking in one of the clawfoot tubs, the lovely wraparound gardens are perfect for birdwatching and restorative walks. It’s also just a 20-minute drive to the coast if you’re still longing for more romantic vistas.
Retreat to Gamekeeper’s Lodge >
Woodland cabin in Mount Vernon, WA
Visitors to Washington’s astonishingly magical Cultus Mountain will likely see, or think they see, all kinds of ethereal spirits and sprites floating around the forest. Spread over nine acres of walking trails and gardens, this rustic retreat is also a dream for those fantasizing about eco-friendly excursions into the woods. The cold-water cabins have electricity and electric heaters, but the communal kitchen is outside in an apple orchard. Just don’t steal fruit from the fairies!
Frolic with fairies at SunRay Shire >
Need more storybook inspo? Explore these fantastic fairy-tale escapes.
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