The days are getting shorter, and the season of darkness has begun, at least in large parts of the northern hemisphere. A cozy atmosphere and spending time together, log fires and wellness retreats are in high demand. According to Google Trends, the search term “hideaway” reached its peak for the year just over a month ago. No wonder, after all, hideaways and hotels with a hideaway character offer exactly what many travelers are currently looking for on a short break or a weekend getaway: relaxing privacy, good food, proximity to nature, and maybe even the odd fireplace.
Hideaway – What does it mean?
Secluded, retreat, refuge – all these terms could be used to describe a “hideaway”. However, they do not describe the hotel or accommodation itself, but rather the feeling that comes with the stay. They are often located in secluded, hidden places that epitomize peace and relaxation. They are often surrounded by the most beautiful nature and invite you to enjoy long walks.
Hideaways and Sustainability.
Holidaying in harmony with nature is part of the whole philosophy of hideaways. Sustainability should therefore also play a role. The owners of the hideaways featured below are more than aware of this and are committed to more sustainable tourism wherever possible. This includes traditional energy and water-saving measures, regional products, and a seasonal menu, as well as the protection of nature and the preservation of biodiversity through, for example, their own gardens and near-natural hotel grounds, as well as support for car-free travel for guests.
Sustainable Hideaways around the World.
Recover Sustainably at the STURM.
The STURM in Mellrichstadt offers everything your heart desires – away from the crowds and just a stone’s throw from the German Rhön Biosphere Reserve. Cozy rooms, some of which are situated directly in the extensive park with a view of the natural pond, an open kitchen concept where guests can chat with the chefs, and a welcoming small spa area with saunas, relaxation rooms, and massage facilities.
Pure Romance at Hotel Das Rübezahl.
In the royally and romantically furnished rooms of the Hotel Das Rübezahl, you can sleep as if you were in a fairy tale. In some of them, the first view in the morning is out onto Neuschwanstein Castle. The mountain panorama with the fairy tale castle also opens up in front of guests from the pool. Several restaurants offer opportunities for romantic dinners before the day draws to a close in the evening by your own fireplace.
Gourmet Getaway at the Genießerhotel Die Forelle.
Culinary delights take center stage at the Austrian hotel on Lake Weissensee. Hotel owner and head chef Hannes Müller focuses on “import self-sufficiency”, which means that all food comes from the region. The kitchen team also attaches great importance to seasonal cooking and only uses products that are currently growing or have been preserved in their own kitchen. In addition to the culinary delights, the Genießerhotel Die Forelle offers a charming wellness area and, above all, a prime location on Lake Weissensee.
Private Wellness in the Hygna Chalets.
Guests at the Hygna Chalets in Tyrol have their own chalet at their disposal. Each of the lovingly and environmentally friendly holiday homes not only offers its own kitchen and cosy rooms, but also a private spa area with a sauna, experience shower and bathtub, or even an outdoor whirlpool. An infinity pool, fitness, yoga rooms, and a breakfast service round off an unforgettable stay.
All-round Relaxation in the OLM Nature Escape (from December 2023).
The OLM Nature Escape is the first energy-self-sufficient eco aparthotel to open its doors in December. The hotel is characterized by its unique, circular architecture, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable. As an eco aparthotel, OLM also offers the perfect blend of secluded privacy and hotel services such as a spa area and a restaurant.
Panoramic Views at the Biohotel Grafenast
The family-run Biohotel Grafenast is located on a mountain pasture above the Inn Valley and is the ideal starting point for an active weekend with hikes, moments of pleasure, and relaxation in the forest sauna. If you can tear yourself away from the unique view from your own room …
Private Bungalow with Beach View at Zeavola
Warm sand, turquoise-colored water, and palm trees swaying in the wind. For many of us, this is what a hideaway looks like. Instead of log cabins and pinewood, guests at the Zeavola Resort in Thailand can expect true barefoot luxury. Garden bungalows with outdoor showers and open-plan architecture, open-air massages, and romantic dinners right on the beach offer a different kind of hideaway experience.