Vacation During Quarantine? 13 Unique Rentals For Your Summer 2020 Escape
Those who have followed me for awhile know my love for great hotels runs deep. I love discovering new properties, sharing about them, and most of all, checking-in for a few days of relaxation and exploration! Nine times out of ten, if I had to choose between a hotel or vacation rental, I’d choose the hotel for the amenities included, but in this new world we currently find ourselves living in, I know I’m not alone when I say a house rental sounds very appealing, given the built-in social distancing and safety it provides (related, here is an interesting read on the future of Airbnb). Fortunately, for us travelers, the market for unique rentals has exploded the past decade, offering a plethora of noteworthy options to choose from, many toting enviable interiors in sought-after locales. I’ve rounded up a baker’s dozen of thoughtfully appointed properties from coast to coast that will have you packing the perfect quarantine-ready vacation bag in no time! Plus, they each have easy access to the great outdoors, whether it be lakes, mountains or the beach. From a designer’s dream cottage on Lake Michigan to a Moroccan inspired airstream in the High Desert, these are the vacation rentals I want to spend Summer 2020 in. And if they pique your interest too, book soon, as dates are filling up quickly!
(PHOTOS AND Some Excerpts TAKEN FROM LISTINGS)
THE LEO COTTAGE
Lake Michigan
If I were to close my eyes and dream of the picture-perfect house to savor slow summer days in, my vision would fall short of this beautifully appointed cottage on Lake Michigan. Leo Cottage, designed by the sought-after firm of Kate Marker Interiors, “perfectly embodies Harbor Country’s curated casual aesthetic, from the lakeside cottage feel to the thoughtfully designed interior. The area of Union Pier, Michigan is known for mom-and-pop bakeries, destination design stores, woodsy gravel roads and pristine Lake Michigan beach access. Two queen bedrooms are perfectly designed and a generous bunk room, complete with 2 full and 2 twin beds, comfortably sleeps 8. More guests can be accommodated with a queen sofa bed in the Game Room. Two adult bikes and two children bikes are included, as is access to Lake Michigan’s beautiful shore. The beach is one street away with only a two minute walk.”
sLEEPS 10 | RATES FROM $425/NIGHT | @THELEOCOTTAGE
Weatherwood Homestead
Columbia Falls, Montana
This beauty in the heart of the Flathead Valley is what Montana dreams are made of! For me, there is no greater place on earth, especially in the summer months, so to spend time not only surrounded by the natural beauty of Big Sky Country but also by thoughtful design aesthetic is a winning combination to say the least. “The Weatherwood Homestead consists of over 200 acres of lovingly preserved farmland and wooded grounds at the edge of the Columbia Mountain range, in northwestern Montana. Two centuries-old wooden cabins, a grand rustic barn, and wandering forest paths invite all Weatherwood Homestead guests to begin their journey just moments away from the entrance to Glacier National Park.”
sLEEPS 6 | RATES FROM $200/NIGHT
Modern Beachfront Cottage
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
If the beach is calling your name, book this stunning modern beach house just 15 miles south of Daytona Beach, Florida. “Designed and built for beach fun and relaxation, this rental is also a stylish state of the art house that takes design and function seriously. We love the luxurious custom finishes, striking designer furnishings and art collection and the perfect deck lounge right on the sand.” Between the three bedrooms it sleeps 7 guests, one of which is perfect for kids with three twin beds, and offers not one, but two, outdoor showers!
Sleeps 7 | rates from $500/night
Black A Frame
Yosemite National Park
“Located above a secluded meadow, this cabin rental in Yosemite is very private and surrounded by native forests just a short drive away from the south entrance to the national park. Gently harmonizing with its environment, this back-to-basics cabin provides all of the fundamentals of country living with a touch of contemporary style and modern comforts. There’s also a cool, vintage trailer on the property with extra sleeping space.” If the chic black a frame is booked, check out the handful of other unique rentals also available at Far Meadow.
Sleeps 4 | rates from $260/night | @FAR_MEADOW
Merchant High House
Morongo Valley, California
“Located on five acres of untouched land overlooking desert landscapes, the Merchant High House is a creative getaway, in Morongo Valley, curated in an ever evolving rotation of unique pieces, inviting guests to relax, unwind and be inspired. One of three concepts designed and developed by artist, Denise Portmans, this vacation home rental in California’s high desert is one element of a multi-faceted project born from a life of travel and design.” With three bedrooms it is plenty comfortable for up to 6 guests (just note children under the age of 12 are not allowed), and if you want more space to sprawl out, the backyard features an outdoor shower, tub, and jacuzzi.
Sleeps 6 | rates from $350/night | @MERHCANTHIGHHOUSEDESERT
Merchant On The Road
Joshua Tree, California
“Come escape to the beautiful surreal surroundings of Joshua Tree. Find yourself transported to a place of peace and tranquility in a 1960's Bambi Airstream”, which has been curated by the mother/daughter duo of Merchant Modern (owners of the last listing, as well) with mid century modern and moroccan touches. Part of Joshua Tree Acres, a reimagined artist retreat village on 10 acres full of vintage airstreams and unique dwellings, where open skies, mountain views and moon gazing awaits you.
SLEEPS 2 | RATES FROM $150/NIGHT | @JOSHUATREEACRES
THE LOFTHOUSE
Black Forest, Colorado
For an escape to satisfy all your Scandinavian design dreams, plus privacy in a ponderosa pine forest, book a stay at The Lofthouse, a contemporary cabin just outside Colorado Springs, Colorado. Its wooded backdrop allows you to unwind and disconnect from the outside world, while still offering convenient access to shops and restaurants, if need be. The uncluttered layout features two bedrooms (plus a sofa bed), one bath, full kitchen, dining room and plenty of outdoor space. “Listen to classic vinyl or play a game from the comfort of the living room's window nook, swing couch, or egg chair.” Sounds like heaven to me!
sleeps 6 | rates from $175/night | @THELOFTHOUSECO
A texas retreat
Austin, Texas
“Kick back on the plush day bed under the canvas shade at this deluxe, contemporary hideaway in coveted Travis Heights (Austin). Take a cooling afternoon dip in the heated pool surrounded by tropical plants, limestone, Brazilian decking, and mature landscaping. The Retreat is just four blocks to vibrant South Congress shopping and restaurants. Experience high design delights in a tranquil resort setting.”
Sleeps 2 | rates from $144/NIGHT
Treehouse of Serenity
Asheville, North Carolina
“Take in the rustic, fairy tale vibe of this custom-made treehouse in the midst of towering white oaks. Recline in a rocking chair and watch the sunset over the mountains, or try your hand at some stargazing from the comfort of the deluxe double bed. The treehouse is built on an 8-acre parcel, 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, within easy driving distance of restaurants, grocery stores, and the local visitor center.”
Sleeps 4 | rates from $199/night
Villa Kuro
Joshua Tree, California
“Designed with tranquility and relaxation in mind, Villa Kuro is a minimal organic modern hideaway located in Joshua Tree, California fusing natural simplicity with contemporary luxuries. Nestled on an unfenced 3.6 acres in front of an ancient boulder mountain, the property goes all the way up to the peak of the mountain, and from there is adjacent to thousands of acres of national park land. At night, the fire pit and salt water hot tub offer an unparalleled stargazing experience.”
Sleeps 4 | rates from $595/night | @VILLAKURO
sea roost
Montauk, Long Island
“Sea Roost is an updated rustic getaway at Montauk, Long Island. This private, two-cottage property contains a few of the last remaining original fisherman cottages at Hither Hills built in the 1940s, set on a lush knoll with mature landscaping, your own private compound is located just steps to Montauk's quiet and secluded Hither Hills Beach. Between the 2 bed/2 bath cottage and a separate studio with kitchen and full bath, it comfortably sleeps 6 guests, and is outfitted with unique amenities like an outdoor shower and tub, perfect for a post-beach soak.”
sleeps 6 | rates from $595/night | @SEAROOSTS
Birch Le Collaboration House
Lake Leelanau, Michigan
Built and designed by Hygge Supply, a leader in sustainable and high-design kit homes, Birch Le Collaboration House was established to showcase their sustainable partners and modern design. If you don’t know, hygge is the Danish word meaning cozy, and that’s exactly what you can expect the vibe to be during your stay, which can be experienced by you and 6 guests. “The home offers a unique experience integrating architecture and nature. Centrally located in Leelanau County, the home is a quick trip to local villages, beaches, wineries and hiking.”
sLEEPS 7 | RATES FROM $422/NIGHT | @HYGGESUPPLY
River Cabaan
Tillamook, Oregon
“Nestled on the banks of the Wilson River & conveniently located just 1 hour from Portland / 20 minutes from the OR Coast, River Cabaan is scenically situated in abundant nature, the wall to wall windows create a light-filled space where you can take in the breathtaking river and forest vista. This hidden gem also boasts 300 feet of private river frontage! Enjoy a simple but tastefully curated interior equipped with all the modern appliances & conveniences you need for an amazing vacay. Soak in the all-day sun on the expansive deck with a glass of wine, or light a campfire on the private waterfront pebbled beach.”
