Escape the world at these fabulous remote retreats
Remote retreats for total relaxation
Rocky Mountain hideaway, Colorado, USA
Perched at an altitude of 6,692 feet (2,040m) in the Rocky Mountains with unobstructed views and mere pine trees for neighbours, this award-winning retreat was expertly designed to adapt to its environment. Offering a “masterclass in low-impact living”, the contemporary cabin was created from reclaimed materials, but is kitted out with creature comforts for a cosy weekend away. There's no phone reception or television here, so switch off, sit back and soak up the serenity of nature.
Comporta Hideaway, Setúbal Municipality, Portugal
You can stay in a modern riverbank refuge surrounded by the rice paddies, shallow pools and sand dunes of the Sado Estuary in Portugal. The boho-chic Comporta offers a stripped back aesthetic, allowing it to seamlessly slot into its uninhabited surroundings. Inside, you'll find a snug bedroom and sitting area, while outside there's a shower with dramatic views. Guests can upgrade to a private chef and have access to kayaks and bicycles for two.
Dawn, New South Wales, Australia
The team at Unyoked has a philosophy: shoes are optional and less is more. That's exactly what you'll experience if you head to its Dawn cabin in Gloucester, New South Wales. Located around three hours from Sydney, the remote hut offers nothing but mountains and open plains for miles around. Powered by solar and equipped with the bare essentials, this unique holiday retreat is one for those looking to disconnect with the modern world and reconnect with nature.
The Star Suite, Western Cape, South Africa
How about spending the night under the stars with an unspoiled wilderness for company? Kagga Kamma is an award-winning nature reserve, located in the heart of South Africa's Cederberg Mountains. Surrounded by spectacular rock formations, the Sky Suite is an open-air room with a cosy queen-sized bed and an outdoor bathtub for soaking under the stars. With no TV, Wi-Fi or mobile reception, you'll be able to relax, reset and reconnect with your travel buddy.
Syros I Hideaway, Cyclades, Greece
If you prefer sun, sea and seclusion, then the Syros I Hideaway will no doubt pique your interest. The Greek retreat isn't any ordinary villa. Situated on a remote hilltop, it affords incredible vistas of the Cyclades. Set in a huge private estate, you’ll find no neighbours or culture spots here – just endless Mediterranean scenery, an infinity pool and outdoor Jacuzzi with views of the ocean. The eco villa does come with on-demand Wi-Fi, but why not switch it off and sample some authentic island life?
Off-grid observation tower, Oregon, USA
When it comes to off-grid holidays, things don't get much better than this. This impressive observation tower can be found in Tiller, Oregon and soars up 40 feet (12.1m) into the air. Secluded inside a 40-acre meadow, the sky-high property offers everything you could need for an unforgettable weekend away, including comfortable beds, hot running water and, of course, jaw-dropping views across Umpqua National Forest. Outside, you'll also have access to hammocks and a wood-fired hot tub.
Vega Island Hideaway, Vegaøyan, Norway
The ultimate Scandinavian escape, the Vega Island Hideaway is a contemporary fisherman’s cabin that appears to have grown from the rocky plinth on which it sits. Located in UNESCO-protected Vegaøyan, Norway, the retreat boasts a gorgeous hygge interior, kitted out with natural wood, white-washed walls and cosy textiles. Ideal for larger parties, the hideaway has a living area, kitchen, dining space and three double bedrooms with sea views.
Etérea Hideaway, Mexico
Off Grid Hideaways offers some truly spectacular rural retreats for keen adventurers to explore, but the Etérea Hideaway might just be its best. So remote that visitors are given coordinates to find the property, the modern cabin is hidden among the slopes of an extinct volcano, a short drive from the city of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Suitable for two guests, the glass retreat boasts gorgeous interior design, jaw-dropping views and a solar-heated pool.
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BERGHEIM Container Lodge, Saxony, Germany
If you're looking for a hideaway that offers gorgeous panoramas and tranquillity, then BERGHEIM Container Loft is one for you. Accessible only by cable car, this mountain-top retreat is formed from recycled shipping containers and offers chic, minimal interior that's suitable for five guests. With skiing, hiking and wildlife spotting on your doorstep, you can be as active as you wish. Or, simply pull up a pew and soak up the outrageously good views that the home's picture windows and balcony afford.
Pohue PurePod, Canterbury, New Zealand
Offering an immersive experience in the midst of New Zealand’s spectacular Banks Peninsula, PurePod is a solar-powered, Wi-Fi-free glass cabin that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. The pod is equipped with a kitchen, hot shower and bedroom, while outside you’ll find deck chairs, a barbecue and a telescope for exploring the area’s renowned night sky. Spend your days doing absolutely nothing or hit the local hiking trails, wild swimming and kayaking spots.
The Overlook, North Carolina, USA
Stunning views, a secluded setting and modern luxuries come together in this hideaway that’s perfect for couples. The quirky glamping domes can be found on the outskirts of Hendersonville, North Carolina, and feature a full kitchenette, bathroom and memory foam mattress to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep under the stars. There’s an outdoor fire pit and hot tub for you to make the most of as well as a stream and pond for some alfresco bathing.
Eco Tiny Home, England, UK
Relax in the expansive valley landscape of Plush, Dorset, in this eco-friendly tiny house. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’ll be able to bask in rolling hills and pretty wildflowers as you recharge your batteries. The tranquil site is perfect for daydreamers to get lost in thought and also hides some adventurous hiking trails and even the opportunity for wild swimming.
Wilderness Camp, Arctic Circle, Finland
Why stay put when you can take your accommodation on the road? Or shall we say on snow? Providing an off-grid experience like no other, this incredible micro cabin by Off the Map allows you to spend the night in the depths of the Finnish Arctic. The mobile sleeping hut, which sits on a sledge-like base, comes equipped with a gas stove, a table, a bed and a toilet, as well as a heater to keep you warm on those chilly winter nights. Plus, thanks to its glass ceiling, you'll be able to watch the stars without stepping outside.
Moon Conker, Wales, UK
Get back in touch with nature at the Moon Conker, where the central theme is all about bathing under the stars – with tubs filled by a nearby stream. Retreat indoors for a cosy night by the fire and enjoy the starry sky above thanks to observatory portholes, which make the hut look like a craterous moon from the outside. There’s a gas stove, fire pit and plenty of solar lighting – but bring your own battery chargers for other devices.
Kate’s Lazy Desert Airstreams, California, USA
Stay in a beautifully restored vintage airstream trailer in the desert near Joshua Tree National Park, California. Each trailer has been decorated for an individual, colourful experience and sleeps two people. Gather around the fire for an evening of storytelling and stargazing and cool off from the hot desert sun in your own private pool. There’s plenty of adventure to be had with hiking trails nearby and you can enjoy sunsets and sunrises over the beautiful desert skyline too.
Mountaintown Creek, Georgia, USA
A stunning riverside retreat, this cosy lodge sleeps four and is located on an award-winning trout stream, where you can fish onsite. It’s mere minutes away from the Cohutta Wilderness, a 37,000-acre national forest where waterfalls, rivers and some of the most remote hiking trails in Georgia can be found. Enjoy forest views from the comfort of this farmhouse abode or take in the sites, smells and sounds of nature from the private deck, where a fire pit will keep you warm.
Scrubby Bay House, South Island, New Zealand
If you're planning a trip to New Zealand's South Island, then add Scrubby Bay House to your bucket list. This stunning seclusive cedar cabin is so far away from civilization that you only get there by helicopter. Located at Annandale, a coastal cattle farm an hour away from Christchurch, the secluded sanctuary sleeps 14 people and comes with its own outdoor pool and spa – not to mention a private bay, surrounded by rolling hills. This property offers once-in-a-lifetime vibes.
Panorama Glass Lodge, Hella, Iceland
Position on the edge of a spectacular fjord in southern Iceland, the Panorama Glass Lodge is the ultimate isolated escape. Offering a compact interior, the rural retreat is surrounded by the peaks and troughs of The Land of Fire and Ice and features walls of glass, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the landscape. Hit the outdoor hot tub for stargazing or lie back in bed and watch the Northern Lights dance in the sky.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, British Columbia, Canada
Accessible only by boat or floatplane, this waterside retreat is a glamping haven with a difference. Located in the beautiful Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve in Bedwell River Valley, British Columbia, the 18 en suite tents are perfect for reconnecting with nature. Each tent is equipped with a king-sized bed, propane-fuelled stove, vintage oil lamps and a bathroom while you can sit back and watch artisan chefs prepare tasty meals cooked with local, seasonal ingredients.
Custom campervan, Victoria, Australia
Almost too cute to be true, this cosy caravan can be found high up in the hills above Apollo Bay in Victoria, Australia. The candy striped camper van sleeps two and comes with a comfortable queen-sized bed, a tiny kitchen with a two-burner gas stove, a fireplace and a bathroom with a full-size shower. Despite being undisturbed, the caravan also happens to be a nine-minute-drive from the beach. Romantic and entirely unique, this is one escape you won't forget in a hurry.
The Water Tower, England, UK
This converted space in rural Warwickshire retains much of the original charm and features of the old water tower, but now sleeps four in two en suite bedrooms with an open-plan kitchen-living zone. The property sits on a farm surrounded by countryside, where you can easily catch a glimpse of horses grazing and ducks roaming the grounds. The peaceful location also has a private outdoor area for you to relax and take in the English countryside.
Zugspitze Noise, Bayern, Germany
Overlooking the Zugspitze – Germany’s highest mountain – this mobile home is perfect for those who like to live on the edge. The low-energy cottage can house three people thanks to a sleeping nook above the open-plan living space. A fireplace ensures cosy winter evenings as you enjoy magnificent mountain vistas – the exposed outdoor seating area gives you a closer connection. There’s no TV, but Wi-Fi will keep you connected, if you want it...
The Canopy Treehouse, Maine, USA
Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, a babbling brook and the soft padding of deer below. This exquisitely crafted, two-bedroom suspended treehouse has all this to offer with the added bonus of modern kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Highly insulated walls make for a cosy environment and you can curl up by a crackling fire in the woodstove as the evening draws in. The home is powered by wind and solar, so it’s not only a peaceful haven but a carbon-neutral one too.
Floating lake cabin, Joncherey, France
Nestled within 50 acres of forest surrounding Lake Verchat in Joncherey, France in Coucoo Grands Reflets eco resort, this floating house is quite unlike any you might have seen before. Set on the waters of the lake, the minimalist retreat is accessible only by a rowboat and comes equipped with a waterfront veranda and a private outdoor hot tub. The perfect base from which to explore Alsace and bordering Switzerland and Germany, this is the ultimate stay for outdoor adventurers.
Kanna Treehouse, England, UK
Set in a peaceful woodland in rural Oxfordshire, UK, this quirky treehouse is the perfect getaway for those after a bit of luxury as they connect with nature. The boutique property is built from sustainable materials with a circular design to blend into the treeline. Powered entirely by renewables, the outcrop will allow you to witness badgers and deer as you relax on the raised deck.
The Box House, Nova Scotia, Canada
Enjoy the comforts of modern life and a dedicated sandy beach at this private ocean resort in Nova Scotia, Canada. The home's contemporary architectural style stands out against the natural landscape and will have you feeling like you’re in a futuristic setting, but there’s no Wi-Fi to keep you connected to the outside world. There are four bedrooms for eight guests and open-plan living means you’ll never be on top of one another.
The Rockhouse Retreat, England, UK
Ever wanted to sleep in a cave? Well this one dates back over 700 years and has a luxurious feel, thanks to cosy beds, underfloor heating and hot, running water. Set in the Habberly Valley, Worcestershire on the edge of an ancient forest at the foot of a babbling brook, the sandstone cave is a magical place to spend a romantic weekend away from the outside world. The home also featured on TV's Grand Designs, making it an Insta-worthy retreat.
Lough Island Reavy Cottage, County Down, Northern Ireland
The Lough Island Reavy Cottage is secluded and stylish in equal measure. Offering total tranquillity, spell-binding scenery and everything you could need for an inspirational writer's weekend or a romantic getaway, it's surrounded by the peaks of the Mourne Mountains. The cosy cottage sleeps two and offers a roaring fire, hot shower and kitchen. With only cows for company, you may never want to leave...
Blanchford Lake Lodge, Yellowknife, Canada
Sitting pretty on a rocky knoll high above Blanchford Lake, this off-grid lodge offers stunning views over an untouched wilderness. Unspoiled by roads, towns and artificial light, it’s the perfect setting to get cosy, lock out the outside world and experience the aurora borealis. The lodge offers the perfect blend of luxury in a wilderness. Powered by solar panels, a wind turbine and five battery sets, it also comes with comfy rooms, a hot tub, sauna and outdoor skating rink.
Hafod y Rhedwydd, Wales, UK
Enjoy gorgeous views over Snowdonia National Park whilst you cocoon inside this restored 19th-century cottage. Set 1,150 feet (351m) above sea level, the idyllic stone house is one of the 12 highest houses in Wales – and it’s completely off-the-grid. There’s a small petrol generator that provides electricity for the kettle or microwave and an oil-fired heating and hot water system. Motion-sensor LEDs provide lighting at night, so if you're looking to go back to basics, this retreat is for you.
Cocoon Village, Corsica, France
Surrounded by an infinite natural landscape, the Cocoon Village in Porto-Vecchio, France, is the ultimate retreat. There are four pods in this remote eco resort, one suspended from a centuries-old tree and another accessible only by a narrow, lamp-strewn path that winds along a precarious cliff. With no running water or electricity, the village isn't for those seeking a luxurious escape, but with ocean views and dramatic hilltops all around, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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