If you're seeking a charming retreat in the woods for pure relaxation, you've come to the right place. Cabins stand out as the ideal vacation option, offering a serene escape from urban life and a chance to unwind amidst nature. If you're unsure where to plan your next cabin retreat, explore this curated collection of exquisite and exceptionally cozy cabins.
Kjerringholmen Cabin (Hvaler archipelago, Norway): Known as the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique dwelling is situated in the Hvaler archipelago, a pristine island paradise in Norway. Covering 63 square meters, the cabin exudes a remarkably spacious and airy atmosphere.
Noteworthy Features:
- Efficiently designed with smart planning for quality living in a compact space.
- Blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating a surreal ambiance.
Pros:
- Efficient and conscious design for smart living.
- Perfect integration with the natural surroundings.
Cons:
- Birds may not notice the home, posing a risk of collision due to its seamless blending.
The Hideaway House (Private mountain, British Columbia): The Hideaway House, a blackened timber cabin, is tucked away on a 52.7-acre private mountain surrounded by ancient forests. Accessible only via a secluded road at the mountain base, it promises a picturesque retreat.
Noteworthy Features:
- Located in a vast natural reserve, offering breathtaking views of British Columbia’s Gulf Islands.
- Facilitates a lovely indoor-outdoor connection.
Pros:
- Access to stunning views.
- Seamless indoor-outdoor integration.
Cons:
- Limited accessibility due to the secluded road.
The Nest (Hocking Hills, Ohio): Nestled in Hocking Hills, Ohio, The Nest is a cozy property designed to embrace the natural beauty of the hills. Its unique layout creates a sense of spaciousness, particularly in the living room, ideal for movie nights.
Noteworthy Features:
- DIY suspended bed on the outdoor patio made from a recycled trampoline.
- Unique layout providing a larger feel than its actual size.
Pros:
- Unique layout for an airy feel.
- Cozy living room for relaxation.
Cons:
- Some may find the barn-style door old-fashioned and lacking privacy.
Casa Monoculo (Eldorado, Brazil): Casa Monoculo, a contemporary Brazilian home, designed by Alan Chu, is elevated above the densely forested area of Eldorado. It offers a luxurious treetop living experience with expansive views of the surroundings.
Noteworthy Features:
- Spacious and modern design for a luxurious living experience.
- Elevated structure providing panoramic views.
Pros:
- Luxurious treetop living.
- Expansive views of the surroundings.
Cons:
- May be more suitable for smaller groups.
The Hide Cabin (Thetford, England): Designed by Inclume Architects, The Hide Cabin is a compact structure in the remote woodlands of Thetford, England. It serves as a protective enclosure for bird watchers, nature lovers, and walkers.
Noteworthy Features:
- Minimizes disturbance to nature and wildlife habitats.
- Rustic design inspired by natural surroundings.
Pros:
- Minimal impact on nature.
- Integration with natural surroundings.
Cons:
- Limited capacity, suitable for one person.
Cabin Anna (De Biesbosch National Park, Netherlands): Known as Cabin Anna, this modular cabin in De Biesbosch National Park is designed for use as a small compact home. It features a ground floor, mezzanine sleeping areas, a kitchen, a bathroom, and an outdoor shower.
Noteworthy Features:
- Manual operation of sliders for a closer connection with the environment.
- Versatile design for different seasons.
Pros:
- Manual sliders for environmental connection.
- Versatile design for various seasons.
Cons:
- No electronic opening version available.
Iwi Cabin (Innovative Design): The Iwi Cabin boasts an innovative design with a space-maximizing accordion shape that can be easily compressed and expanded. It serves as a solution for city dwellers looking to expand space in urban apartments.
Noteworthy Features:
- Easily expandable and compressible design.
- Efficient operation with a wheel system.
Pros:
- Resistant to rain, wind, and sunshine.
- Interior outfitted with cork and sheep’s wool for insulation.
Cons:
- Single door/window for ventilation.
Cabins in Farouche Tremblant (Mont-Tremblant National Park, Canada): A series of A-frame buildings populate the Devil River’s Valley in the Farouche Tremblant agrotourism site. Designed by Atelier l’Abri, these cabins function as a basecamp for visitors exploring Devil’s River and Valley.
Noteworthy Features:
- Outdoor decking and a glazed gable end for optimal natural landscape views.
- Designed to "recede in the landscape."
Pros:
- Scenic outdoor views.
- Functionality as a basecamp for visitors.
Cons:
- Aesthetics may be considered old-school.
Bathhouse (Hankøsundet, Østfold, Norway): The Bathhouse, a bright red cabin on the seafront in Hankøsundet, Østfold, draws inspiration from traditional Norwegian boathouse aesthetics. It serves as a 'modern reinterpretation' with contemporary materials and techniques.
Noteworthy Features:
- Mimics a traditional boathouse with a red exterior.
- Incorporates contemporary materials for a modern touch.
Pros:
- Authentic design mimicking traditional boathouses.
- Second layer of timber planks for privacy in the living area.
Cons:
- Open panels in the living room may not suit those desiring adjustable privacy.
‘A House’ (Lilla Kilskäret, Sweden): 'A House' is a minimalist Nordic cabin situated in the wooded region of Lilla Kilskäret, part of the Swedish archipelago near Stockholm. Designed as a cozy summer home for a young couple, it captures minimalist Nordic architecture.
Noteworthy Features:
- Minimalist Nordic architecture blending with picturesque surroundings.
- Adherence to local building regulations for a tiny footprint.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
- Calming and peaceful ambiance.
Cons:
- Limited privacy with three walls made of glass.
