This winter, an easy getaway to a nearby Airbnb in a storybook setting might be just what the doctor ordered. Scratch that on doctors. We hope there are no doctors in anyone’s futures this season, but you get the idea. A break in routine, a change of scenery, a hiatus from the school-practice-dinner-bed drill—sometime’s it’s exactly what you need when the days get short and the temps turn blustery. Keep reading for our favorite driveable Airbnbs from the mountains to the beach that will help you reconnect, reset, and return home just a little more relaxed and refreshed this winter.
For the Anglers—Robbinsville, NC
This adorable cabin is spacious enough for a large family or small group, and with a pristine trout stream running behind it, you can fish your heart out without committing to a day spent in the cold. Cast a line or two, then warm up by the fire just a few steps away, inside.
Size: 12 guests (6 bedrooms, 8 beds, 4 baths)
Bonus: Many destinations are day trips from the cabin, including hiking in tghe Joyce Kilmer National forest, driving the Cherohala Skyway or Tail of the Dragon, visiting the Smoky Mountain National Park, or finding some fun in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. There are also literally miles of four-wheeler trails and roads right outside the cabin door, along with mountain biking and hiking.
Online: Little Snowbird Cabin in the Smokies, airbnb.com
For the Animal Lovers—Asheville, NC
Plan a stay in this beautiful chalet-style home on two acres that's just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville. You'll enjoy a secluded home overlooking a pond and mini-farm with goats, chickens, and ducks. Play with the goats during the day, explore Asheville, and come home to a new hot tub or s'mores in the fire pit area.
Size: 7 guests (4 bedrooms, 5 beds, 2.5 baths)
Bonus: While you might want to cozy up to the cabin and stay in for meals, Asheville's plentiful breweries often offer impressive dining, green spaces for kids to play in, and of course—beer.
Online: Tanbark Mini Farm, airbnb.com
For the Waterfall Lovers—Highlands, NC
Honeybee Hideaway is just minutes from downtown Highlands, where you'll find charming shops, trailheads, and restaurants. It is also located just 1 mile from Glen Falls, one of the more iconic area waterfalls—though there are plenty to choose among—and the outdoor ice skating rink.
Size: 8 guests (3 bedrooms, 4 beds, 2 baths)
Online: Honeybee Hideaway, airbnb.com
For Rest & Relaxation—Cloudland, GA
For total seclusion, head to Ridgetop in Cloudland, Georgia. When the doors are open, the clouds really do float through the house, hence the name for the area—Cloudland. The privacy of this cabin cannot be beat and the roomy deck is perfect for enjoying the view and winding down.
Size: 8 guests (3 bedrooms, 3 beds, 2 baths)
Online: Ridgetop, airbnb.com
For It All—Townsend, TN
This cozy, rustic cabin is nestled on the bank of the scenic Little River in quaint Townsend, Tennessee, and is just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, Cades Cove, and other attractions. You'll feel like you're someplace totally remote but you'll enjoy the convenience of local walking-distance amenities, including a grocery store, gas station, and restaurants.
Size: 12 guests (3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 2 baths)
Bonus: In addition to the excitement of nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge (Dollywood, anyone?), this cabin places you within striking distance of beautiful caverns and hiking trails.
Online: Rippling Waters Retreat, airbnb.com
For the Artists—Mentone, AL
Enjoy an eclectic, boho escape above a waterfall and creek. The Blueberry Bungalow Tiny Home has a queen bed on the main floor and two full beds in the loft (the loft is not a walkable space, as it's only about 4 ft. high). You'll be 5 miles from the funky mountain town of Mentone, Alabama where with its art galleries, amazing restaurants, and Desoto State Park—home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the state of Alabama.
Size: 6 guests (2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath)
Online: The Blueberry Bungalow, airbnb.com
For the Historians—Highlands, NC
Highland Lights is a renovated 1880's farm that sits in the middle of 3.5 sunny acres nestled in the middle of the Highlands Plateau. It's a short drive to Highlands, NC. and just minutes away from hiking trails, waterfalls, zip lining, fishing and great restaurants.
Size: 6 guests (3 bedrooms, 4 beds, 2 baths)
Online: Highland Lights Farm, airbnb.com
For the Shell Collectors—St. Simons, GA
Built in the 1930s, Breezy Bliss still has its original character and charm, but it has been updated with modern-day amenities. This home is tucked away on a quiet street, nestled under the canopy of southern live oaks in a quaint residential neighborhood and just a short walk to the beach.
Size: 10 guests (4 bedrooms, 8 beds, 4 baths)
Online: Breezy Bliss, airbnb.com
For the Front Porch Fans—Wadmalaw, SC
This nationally registered historic home in Wadmalaw was built in the early 1800s, faces the Bohickett River, and is a 35 minute scenic drive to downtown Charleston, popular beaches, as well as many historical landmarks and parks. If you are looking for a place defined by natural beauty and southern charm, head here for peace and quiet on a front porch overlooking the river.
Size: 6 guests (4 bedrooms, 6 beds, 2.5 baths)
Online: Rockville Airbnb, airbnb.com
Featured image via iStock.
—Shelley Massey
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