by Earth Day gives people around the globe an opportunity each year to focus on the challenges facing the planet. And from carbon footprints to climate change, there’s no shortage of issues to tackle. As part of this focus on being one with nature, the British are now putting a stay at ‘Earth Homes’ on their TV screens.
Land houses, built at ground level, with earth built around them or on top of them, have recently seen a surge in demand – partly due to their relaxed appeal, no doubt. Airbnb has seen a 20.4 percent increase in UK guests listing homes worldwide from 2022 to 2023.
For anyone hoping to book a relaxing retreat in the UK’s best places to unplug, here are 10 of the coolest Airbnb escapes to check out this Earth Day, from a Scottish hideaway the stars to a domesticated cave on the Tochar Coast.
Hideaway Under the Stars, Moray
This award-winning hideaway is nestled in the foothills of Ben Rinnes, Northern Scotland, in three acres of greenery and is an instant hit with visitors due to its stunning vaulted roof and mountain views. There is the opportunity to pick some seasonal produce, and let guests stargaze in the tranquility of Moray.
From around £200 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Wilderness Lodge, Shropshire
A house without curtains and blinds may seem unusual, but those who choose to stay in this Shropshire hillside home are sure to get the full sunrise experience every morning. It’s almost too easy to immerse yourself in nature on these hills, as views from the mud house stretch for miles and miles from every room. Guests can also walk around the area to pick some apples and visit the horses.
A night from around £80, airbnb.co.uk
Coll’s Cave, Tochar Coast and the Glens
If visiting the mountains with a particular cave is on anyone’s wish list, they are definitely in luck. One of the finest dwellings of its kind is located in Sliabh Binnhei in Northern Ireland. Walking trails, waterfalls and wildlife are available in the County Derry area. Nearby is the scenic Game of Thrones Dothraki Grasslands filming location, which fans will recognize as the famous spot where Daenerys lands her dragon.
From around £175 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Longhouse of the Vikings / Hobbit Underground Tiny house, Clynnog More
This turf-covered cabin is a combination of a Viking longhouse and an underground hobbit hideout. The tiny oak cabin, which sleeps up to four people, is set on an ecological farm with animals, lakes and woodlands to explore. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this star home, located in Clynnogmór, orchards, has been rated five stars.
From around £100 per night, airbnb.co.uk
A unique magical round house in its own woodland
In the heart of West Penwith lies a round house hideaway like a little bit of magic. The roaring wood burner is enough to keep guests comfortable. During the day, the paths and beaches of the nearby Cornish coast are recommended before returning to the house, built with a timber structure and thatched bales covered with cobb.
From around £90 per person, airbnb.co.uk
Magical woodland wasp, Carmarthenshire
Nestled in the Black Mountains of South East Wales is another magical riverside woodland hideaway. It is almost impossible for visitors to get closer to nature than here, as it is sculpted from the surrounding land. The small house sleeps three guests and has one bedroom.
From around £110 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Hobbit House, North Norfolk coast
Situated close to Wells, Holkham and Blakeney is Hobbit House on the North Norfolk coast. Perfect for a romantic stay, the house is filled with little activities including baking dinner in the precious pizza oven. There’s also a game of boules to try before heading out to search for the stars in the outdoor hot tub.
From £130 per night, airbnb.co.uk
The hobbit’s house, Langford
The cozy, quaint house can be found at the bottom of a garden next to a stream and in front of fields. It is close to the picturesque Cheddar Gorge in Somerset which can be visited before returning to the house with a cozy log burner.
From around £70 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Otter House, Aberdeenshire
Custom designed and finished with handcrafted wood, it’s the ultimate nest to enjoy in the quiet. Guests at the Otter House can relax while swimming, boating or fishing in the nearby ponds, and tour the local farms to collect eggs and pick vegetables.
From around £120 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Cavan Cave, Argyll and Bute
This Scottish cave is built directly from the shore. Tucked away in between locations for a range of great experiences from kayaking to dolphin watching, all within a stone’s throw of the house for those looking to keep themselves occupied and entertained throughout their stay. There are four guests in the cave.
From around £80 per night, airbnb.co.uk
