Earth Day offers people around the globe each year a chance to focus on the challenges facing the planet. And from carbon footprints to climate change, there’s no shortage of issues to tackle. Part of this focus on becoming one with nature entails Brits now adding a stay at ‘Earth Homes’ to their vision boards.
Earth houses, which are built at ground level, with earth built up around or on top of them, have recently soared in popularity — in part due to their tranquil appeal, no doubt. Airbnb has seen a 20.4 per cent rise in UK guests wishlisting houses globally from 2022 to 2023.
For anyone hoping to book a calming retreat in the UK’s finest spots to unplug, here are 10 of Airbnb’s most charming getaway homes to have a look at this Earth Day, from a Scottish hideaway beneath the stars to a calming cave on the Causeway Coast.
Hideaway Under the Stars, Moray
This award-winning hideaway lies on the foothills of Ben Rinnes, Northern Scotland in three acres of greenery and is an instant hit with visitors due to its spectacular roof dome and mountain view. The opportunity for some seasonal produce picking, and a spot of stargazing has been known to leave guests in awe of Moray’s calm.
From approximately £200 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Wilderness Lodge, Shropshire
A house with no curtains and blinds may seems unconventional, but those opting to stay in this house on the Shropshire hillside are guaranteed the full sunrise experience each morning. Immersing oneself into nature is almost too easy on these hills, as views from the earth house stretch on for miles and miles from every room. Guests can also walk around the area to do some apple picking and visit the horses.
A night from approximately £80, airbnb.co.uk
Hazel Cave, Causeway Coast and Glens
If a visit to the mountains with a unique cave is on anyone’s wishlist, they are surely in luck. Binevenagh Mountain in Northern Ireland is home to one of the best such dwellings. The County Londonderry area also offers walking trails, waterfalls and wildlife. Nearby is the scenic Game of Thrones filming location Dothraki Grasslands, which fans will recognise as the famous spot where Daenerys lands her dragon.
From approximately £175 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Viking Longhouse / Underground Hobbit Tiny house, Clynnog-fawr
This turf covered cabin is a blend of Viking longhouse and underground hobbit hideaway. The tiny oak crafted cabin, which hosts up to four people, sits on an ecological farm with animals, lakes and woodlands to explore. Located between the mountains and sea, this stellar Wales Clynnog-fawr orchard-based home has attracted a five star rating.
From approximately £100 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Unique magical roundhouse in its own woodland
In the heart of West Penwith lies a roundhouse hideaway akin to something a little magical. The roaring wood burner is enough to keep guests cosy. During the day, nearby Cornish coastal paths and beaches are recommended before returning to the house, built with a wooden structure and cobb covered straw bales.
From approximately £90 per person, airbnb.co.uk
Magical woodland hideaway, Carmarthenshire
Nestled in the Black mountains of South East Wales is yet another magical woodland hideaway on the riverfront. It is almost impossible for visitors to come closer to nature than here, as it is sculpted from the surrounding land. The small home hosts three guests and has one bedroom.
From approximately £110 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Hobbit house, North Norfolk coast
Situated close to Wells, Holkham and Blakeney is a Hobbit house on the North Norfolk coast. Perfect for a romantic stay, the home is replete with small activities including baking dinner in the prized pizza oven. There is also a game of boules to have a go at before heading out to search for stars in the outdoor hot tub.
From £130 per night, airbnb.co.uk
The hobbit house, Langford
The quirky, cosy home can be found at the bottom of a garden beside a stream and in front of fields. It is close to picturesque Cheddar Gorge in Somerset which can be visited before retreating to the house with a cosy wood burner.
From approximately £70 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Otter House, Aberdeenshire
Custom designed and finished with handcrafted wood, is the den perhaps most offering the chance to enjoy in the quiet. Guests at Otter House can slow down as they swim, boat or fish in the nearby ponds, and tour the local farms to collect eggs and pick vegetables.
From approximately £120 per night, airbnb.co.uk
Cuan Cave, Argyll and Bute
This Scottish cave is built right from the shoreline. The hidden gem sits between sites for an array of wonderful experiences from kayaking to dolphin spotting, all just a stone’s throw from the home for those looking to keep themselves occupied and entertained all throughout their stay. The cave hosts four guests.
