Winter Dreams: 10 Cozy Vacation Homes for your next Winter Getaway
BY JULIE MARION LAKIANG 20 JAN 2024
As winter blankets the world in its quiet elegance, there's something undeniably magical about escaping to the mountains. Whether you're yearning for peaceful moments by the fire, breathtaking mountain panoramas, or the invigorating chill of the crisp mountain air, we've got you covered. We've handpicked a selection of cottages and vacation homes in the heart of nature, where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the hills.
1. Hushstay x Cheese Cottage, Tangmarg: Where Kashmir's Beauty Beckons
Set amidst the serene charm of Tangmarg, The Cheese Cottage is a tranquil haven reminiscent of paradise, once owned by the Maharaja of Kashmir. This two-bedroom cottage, with colonial design and exposed-cement walls, offers a fairy tale mountain home experience. Nature's beauty surrounds you, with wildflowers, fruit trees, and a calming stream from the Drung River.
The Cheese Cottage marries modern comfort with Himalayan tranquillity, inviting you to experience Kashmir's beauty at its best.
2. Hushstay x Hunzuru, Manali: Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Sustainability
In the serene village of Pangan, away from the tourist throngs, Hunzuru stands as a testament to eco-conscious design, rustic charm, and wabi-sabi aesthetics. This 3,500-square-foot Manali homestay seamlessly weaves old Himalayan allure with contemporary sustainability. From mud and stone walls to handmade artifacts, every element radiates timeless beauty. Local craftsmanship and a commitment to natural materials shine through in every detail, from wicker lamps to reclaimed wood paneling. Discover a retreat where tradition meets eco-chic living, where old and new harmoniously coexist.
3. Hushstay x Garhwal: A Timeless Mountain Retreat
Nestled in the Kaudia Range at 7200 ft, Hushstay x Garhwal is a two-bedroom stone cottage offering a profound connection with nature. A short 5-minute walk uphill leads you to this architectural beauty, where the rustic charm and comforts of a mountain cottage coexist. Surrounded by terraced fields, the cottage blends traditional elements with modern sophistication, featuring French windows framing, breath-taking vistas of the Sarkanda Devi Temple and, on clear days, the snow-covered Himalayas.
4. Hushstay x Sukoon: Your Repose in the Heart of Jalna
As the name "Sukoon" suggests, this historic stone-clad cottage, built in the 80's, is an escape for nature lovers who are looking for peace and tranquility. Perched at 5500 ft and surrounded by virgin pine, oak, and rhododendron trees, this 1 bedroom mountain home, offers views of the majestic Himalayan peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi. Witness the skies transform into a magical canvas of red, orange, and violet hues, adorned with a myriad of stars as the sun sets.
5. Hushstay x House on the Slope: Where Glass and Stone Converge
Perched in a quaint Himalayan Hamlet known as Chalnichhina, The House on the Slope is a 2-bedroom retreat nestled on terraced fields. This stunning all-glass skylight masterpiece adorns the roof and extends into the front wall, revealing breath-taking views of snow-capped Himalayan Peaks, including Trishul and Nanda Devi.
Mornings greet you with the gentle warmth of the sun streaming through the glass roof, and at night, you can lose yourself in the starry sky from the comfort of your cozy bedrooms.
6. Hushstay x Aarish: Your Himalayan Haven of Serenity
Nestled in the serene village of Guniyalekh, Hushstay x Aarish is a secluded 4-bedroom Mountain Retreat perched on a ridge at 6900 ft. Offering breath-taking natural surroundings, it overlooks terraced fields and the majestic snow-covered Nanda Devi Range in the distance, providing an enviable opportunity to detach yourself from the world and allow time to catch up with you. It's unique architecture draws from Kumaoni traditions, and each room promises 180-degree views of the landscape. While the exterior exudes old-world charm, the pine-clad interiors blend modernism with a minimalist design aesthetic.
7. Hushstay x Woodhouse Farm: Your Himalayan Hideaway
Hushstay x Woodhouse Farm, just 45 km from Nainital and 12 km from Mukteshwar, is a charming 4-bedroom Farmstay in Satoli. Surrounded by fruit orchards, the setting is a picturesque escape resembling a Monet painting. The wooden cottage's unique design complements the terraced landscape, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi from its spacious rooms. It's your tranquil Himalayan hideaway.
8. Hushstay x Nanda Stone: Your Blissful Mountain Retreat
Nestled in the secluded Jilling forest, Hushstay x Nanda Stone is a serene mountain sanctuary accessible only via a scenic walking trail. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and the symphony of nature, this earthy retreat harmonizes with its pristine surroundings and boasts insulation that keeps you cozy in milder winters with less snowfall. Minimalist charm, chic furniture, creative decor, and abundant natural light create a tranquil atmosphere, while outdoor spaces, including a "Kumaoni Chulha", invite you to embrace the serenity of nature.
9. Hushstay x Hygge House: Your Orchard Escape
Nestled in Raison, 28 km from Manali, Hushstay x Hygge House is a 4-bedroom luxury farm stay cottage set amidst bountiful fruit orchards. This serene location experiences milder winters, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a getaway without heavy snowfall. Cherries, nectarines, plums, kiwi, apricots, apples, pomegranates, and more thrive on this private estate, offering a tranquil escape with a touch of nature's charm.
10. Hushstay x Vayu: Where the Mountain Air Whispers Peace
Nestled in Nathuakhan, Vayu - is a serene 5-bedroom retreat. Accessible via a leisurely stroll through an oak tree-lined village path, this immersive mountain home, built from stone and seasoned wood, invites you to unwind and savor the serenity of the Kumaon hills. With an emphasis on the four natural elements, the location, perched at the mouth of an expansive valley, offers a perpetual, gentle breeze. Your stay at Hushstay x Vayu promises a serene escape, with the added benefit of experiencing comparatively lesser snowfall during the winter months, making it an ideal year-round mountain retreat.