For many people, winter weather means dreaming of tropical vacations. For others, another round of fresh snow on the ground means it’s time to head to the mountains for a weekend full of hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. We think the key to a perfect winter vacation is a cozy, luxurious cabin rental to relax in after a long day of playing in the snow.
If you prefer sweeping views of snow-covered mountains, fun-filled days atop the slopes, and cozy nights at the fireplace, we have you covered. Here are eight of the best cabin rentals to curl up in on your next winter weekend get-away retreat.
Getaway
City life can be stressful year-round, so we understand the urge to get away whenever you have the chance. Fortunately, so do the folx behind Getaway. The brand’s “secret” locations just outside (usually within 2-3 hours) of several major U.S. cities provide an escape from the urban hustle for a few nights while promising that you’ll be back in the office Monday morning.
These tiny-house-style cabins are minimalist but cozy with a kitchenette, bathroom, and dining table. But it’s the bed that makes these cabins so popular. The (super comfortable) beds are tucked beneath a wall of glass, looking out to the forest. Each cabin is carefully positioned to offer complete privacy, making you feel like you’re the only one out there. With a box to lock up your electronics, Getaway encourages fully unplugging during your stay, and trust us, it’s well worth it. After a few nights of communing with the trees and squirrels, you’ll feel like a whole new person.
The Cabin in the Woods
A roaring fire, board games, popcorn, and s’mores all make for a pretty relaxing weekend getaway. The only thing better is enjoying all of this in an authentic log cabin. The Cabin in the Woods at Pine Mountain Club in California has all of the cozy-cabin feels we look for in a winter retreat, yet it’s less than 90 miles from Downtown Los Angeles.
Pine Mountain Club is surrounded by a staggering 1.7 million acres of old-growth forests making it ideal for those who love a winter stroll through the woods. In the evenings, settle in with your flannel blanket in front of the roaring fire with a book from the cabin’s library and a glass of complimentary wine or cabin-inspired cocktail. In the morning, whip up a big breakfast with the waffle maker and head out to the porch swing to watch the snowfall.
Dunton Hot Springs
Colorado, it goes without saying, is one of the best places to visit in the winter. With the stunning Rockies covered in snow, dotted with little towns, the Centennial State becomes downright magical this time of year. And what better way to enjoy a quaint mountain town than in one of the best cabin rentals in Colorado next to its very own hot spring?
Dunton Hot Springs comprises an unincorporated group of secluded log cabins on the Dolores River in Southwestern Colorado (about 25 miles southwest of Telluride). Every cabin is unique and has its own appeal, and there’s really no bad cabin here. Yet with that said, we especially like Well House Cabin, which comes complete with a fireplace near the big king bed and your very own private, hot spring-fed soaking tub right in the room.
Sheldon Chalet
If a traditional log cabin in the woods isn’t disco enough for you, perhaps it’s time to look outside the Lower 48. Sheldon Chalet is about as remote as one can get in the United States. Situated just ten miles from North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali, it sits on the only privately held parcel of land in Alaska’s Denali National Park. Visitors who find a way to get there (it’s only accessible by helicopter) will discover an exclusive world-class rental with a full kitchen, a stocked wet bar, a sauna, and a beautiful lounge with a fireplace. A panoramic observation deck affords stunning views of the surrounding Ruth Glacier and, on many nights throughout the year, the Northern Lights as well.
Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch
Idaho may not always be considered a top winter destination, yet this state has so much to offer lovers of the outdoors. You will find great places for hiking, fishing, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and you can enjoy it all while being surrounded by the snow-capped Rockies. It’s a no-brainer to head to Idaho for your next winter retreat. For the perfect combination of daytime activities and nighttime coziness, check out Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch. Their historic log cabins give you a feel of the Old West with modern amenities. The beds are positioned in front of large stone fireplaces for ultimate warmth and comfort.
Big Cedar Lodge
What’s cozier than a traditional one-room log cabin in the woods? With rustic mountain decor, a large stone fireplace, and a porch overlooking the lake, Big Cedar Lodge near Branson, Missouri, is a picturesque winter retreat in the mountains. While the cabins feel private and cozy, the property offers all of the amenities of a typical resort. But with a roaring fire going and a dip in the soaking tub, you probably won’t be leaving your cabin any time soon.
Log Cabin Motor Court
With cabin names like “Kozy Korner,” “Snug Harbor,” and “Snuggle Inn,” you know you’re in for a cozy stay at Log Cabin Motor Court. A National Historic Landmark, Log Cabin Motor Court offers a secluded mountain escape just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. Each authentic log cabin is unique with its own charm, but we especially recommend Sleepy Susan (or Cabin 12) for your winter getaway. This cabin features a comfy queen bed, a full kitchen, and a massive wood-burning fireplace. There’s also a bonus gas log stove for a quaint reminder of the property’s nearly 90-year history. All of which makes it one of the best Smoky Mountain cabin rentals.
Cascade Creek Retreat
Thinking your cozy winter cabin dreams have to end come May? Just head to the southern hemisphere for a stay at Cascade Creek Retreat outside of Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island. If even the best Gatlinburg cabin rentals won’t do, Cascade Creek Retreat is a luxury log chalet complete with all of the essentials for a cozy stay including a massive fireplace, a comfy sofa, and (the icing on the cabin cake) an outdoor soaking tub for unwinding with a glass of wine at the end of the day. Quiet and secluded, it’s a one-of-a-kind escape that will let you keep the winter vibes going all year long.
Bonus Cabin: Check out one of the hardest-to-book cabins around. The Red A-Frame in Yosemite was one of the hottest vacation rentals in recent years.
These cabins certainly have us dreaming of a snowy winter weekend getaway, and we hope you found some good use of this guide as well. For more hot and cool travel ideas, check out this guide to the emerging travel trends of 2023, our picks for the best national parks to visit this winter, and this handy guide to the Caribbean island that abounds in exciting adventures. Wherever you go next, we hope you enjoy a safe and fulfilling journey.
