Nature is awash in shades of orange and yellow and travellers rushing to catch the trees at their peak are looking for lodging that provides a cosy base for scenic views. Cabins immersed in autumn landscapes are in high demand at this time of year. We’ve embarked on a virtual adventure to find five countryside retreats that connect with the outdoors. From a design-led shelter in Washington and a cabin in the Icelandic hinterland to a minimalist Cotswolds cottage, they offer breathtaking views and sit far from the daily grind.
Folly Cottage
Far from the madding crowd, this quintessential countryside retreat has window mullions, pitched roofs and calming limestone walls. Period details like the original beams and open fireplaces blend seamlessly with contemporary bookcases and creamy sofas that add warmth while maintaining the minimalistic style. Outside, an orchard features apples, plums and mulberries, plus a lily pond and a small woodland — the perfect backdrop for long, leaf-peeping walks.
Iceland Escape
Breathtaking Iceland wilderness surrounds the Iceland Escape huts near Hvolsvöllur, secluded retreats for adventurous holiday-makers. The glass roof above the bed is the highlight of these fully equipped lodges, allowing guests to stargaze. The living spaces have views of the mountains and a waterfall, hemmed in by trees that change colours with the season. There’s also a private outdoor hot tub and sauna.
Cabina Anna
Hidden in the Holenberg Forest in the Netherlands, Cabin Anna is a retreat that embodies principles of flexibility while connecting to nature. Conceived as a one-off by Dutch architect Caspar Schols for his mother’s garden, it has since grown into a cluster of customisable huts that feature sliding exterior shells that can close or open to immerse the residents in the outdoors.
La Conner Glass Cabin
This three-bedroom retreat in northern Washington state has elevated rustic style and spectacular views of Hope Island, Whidbey Island, the Olympic Mountains and beyond. Its spacious open-plan living area features sliding glass walls that invite in nature and light. Upstairs are two bedrooms and a large sleeping loft with geometric skylights that provide views of the treetops — the ultimate relaxation spaces. A few steps further is a private staircase leading down to a secluded beach.
FORESTIS
Hunker down in this high-altitude lodge 2,000m up the Dolomite Mountains. Nestled on the southern slope of Plose Mountain in South Tyrol, FORESTIS is a contemporary interpretation of a classic ski chalet with postmodern minimalist design. It was constructed using local materials like spruce and Swiss stone pine and is powered by renewable energy. The property provides all the amenities you want when you’re not leaf-peeping, including satellite TV and Wi-Fi.
