In the mountains – a remote refuge in northern Italy, an Austrian train station turned B&B, and more.

Europe’s majestic mountain ranges, serene lakes, and enchanting forests offer an unparalleled escape for travellers seeking solace, adventure, or a profound connection with nature. From the rugged peaks of the Alps to the tranquil depths of the Nordic woodlands, these destinations provide unique havens that blend local culture, innovative design, and a deep respect for their natural surroundings. Whether you crave an off-grid digital detox, a historical immersion, or a family-friendly outdoor adventure, these carefully curated retreats promise unforgettable experiences far from the everyday hustle.

In the Mountains

A Remote Refuge in Northern Italy: Rifugio Val di Togno

Nestled at a challenging altitude of 1,317 meters (4,320ft) within Italy’s rugged Orobic Alps, specifically in the picturesque Valtellina region, Rifugio Val di Togno is not merely a destination but a journey in itself. Reaching this beautifully renovated mountain hideout requires determination: a winding four-mile dirt road with 27 demanding hairpins, ideally tackled in a four-wheel drive, or a vigorous two-hour hike from the tiny, secluded hamlet of Carnale. Yet, as managers Luna Lybeer and Wout Allegaert aptly put it, "We offer guests nothing so they can get away from everything." This philosophy underpins an experience that, paradoxically, offers an abundance of peace and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for a digital detox and a reconnection with oneself.

The ‘nothing’ they speak of is a deliberate stripping away of urban distractions, replaced by stunning vistas and thoughtful comforts. Each room, whether through a charming porthole-like round window or expansive floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, frames breathtaking views down the valley, immersing guests in the grandeur of the Alpine landscape. The renovation carefully balances rustic charm with contemporary elegance, using local materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels both authentic and luxurious. The all-inclusive stay, with a three-night minimum (doubles from £298), covers a culinary journey from breakfast to a two-course dinner, along with picnic options for daytime excursions. Luna and Wout’s commitment to sustainability shines through their delicious vegetarian meals, crafted from produce harvested directly from their own garden or foraged from the surrounding wilderness. Homemade kombucha, sourdough bread, and fresh gnocchi further elevate the dining experience, reflecting a slow food ethos deeply rooted in local flavours and traditions. This refuge appeals to avid hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those yearning for profound quiet and a truly immersive mountain escape. (rifugiovalditogno.com)

An Austrian Train Station Turned B&B: Lermooser

In the heart of Austria’s scenic Tirol region, at the foot of the majestic Zugspitze (Germany’s highest peak), stands Lermooser, a design B&B with a fascinating history. Built in 1910, the old Lermoos train station lay derelict for years, a silent testament to a bygone era of Alpine travel. It took the unwavering vision and five-year persistence of Johann Ehmann and his wife Cleo Weber to acquire it from Austrian Railways in 2019. Their passion for the classic Alpine building is evident in its meticulous conversion, which beautifully marries historical railway aesthetics with modern design sensibilities.

The eight individually styled rooms cater to a diverse range of travellers, from solo adventurers or budget-conscious couples in a cosy bunk bed "cabin" to groups in the "team XL" room, featuring three single beds and a double. The design thoughtfully incorporates elements that nod to the building’s railway past while introducing sleek, contemporary furnishings and local materials to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Beyond the private accommodations, Lermooser fosters a sense of community with its communal kitchen, encouraging guests to share stories and meals, and a downstairs kiosk serving coffee, fresh pastries, and homemade soups – perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The enduring charm of the location is enhanced by the fact that the train still stops right outside, offering convenient, car-free access. From the doorstep, guests can embark on stunning hikes to the panoramic Tuftl Alm viewpoint, or to the crystalline waters of Seebensee and Drachensee, renowned for their breathtaking Alpine reflections. Doubles from £106 B&B. (lermooser.com)

A Historic Wilderness Hotel in Norway: Røisheim

On the fringes of Jotunheimen National Park, Norway’s "Land of Giants" in the southern part of the country, lies Røisheim, a true time capsule of a turf-roofed hotel that has been a beacon for mountain lovers since 1858. This historic hotel is intrinsically linked to Norway’s mountaineering heritage, serving as the starting point for the first recorded ascent of Galdhøpiggen, Norway’s tallest mountain at 2,469 metres (8,100ft), in 1850. While many hikers now opt for quicker routes from Spiterstulen, the original trail still leads directly from Røisheim’s charming courtyard, inviting guests to follow in the footsteps of pioneers.

In summer, the high latitude means the sun doesn’t set until a glorious 11pm, granting guests ample time to immerse themselves in a wealth of outdoor activities. The extended daylight hours are perfect for exhilarating blue ice glacier walks, invigorating swims in pristine mountain lakes, cycling over the dramatic Sognefjellet pass (one of Europe’s highest and most scenic mountain roads), or conquering the iconic Galdhøpiggen. Røisheim itself is a testament to preservation; many rooms are faithfully maintained with their original timber-clad walls, intricately carved wooden beds, and unique barrel-like tubs, offering a truly authentic glimpse into 19th-century Alpine hospitality. The hotel’s commitment to historical accuracy, combined with the raw beauty of its surroundings, provides a profound sense of connection to Norway’s wilderness and its rich cultural past. Doubles from £243 B&B. (roisheim.no)

Alpine Apartments in Bavaria: Karls Mittenwald

Mittenwald, a picturesque Bavarian town near the Austrian border, is famed not only for its stunning mountain backdrop but also for its violin-making tradition and the elaborate Lüftlmalerei (fresco painting) adorning its buildings. It was this unique blend of climate, outdoor activities, and accessibility that drew Anne-Sophie Trinkgeld and her husband Dario to open Karls Mittenwald. "We didn’t choose Mittenwald because we wanted to open a hotel, we chose it because we wanted to live somewhere that summer still feels like summer," says Anne-Sophie, reflecting a desire for authentic, unpretentious Alpine living. Mittenwald perfectly fits the bill, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Wetterstein and Karwendel ranges yet just a convenient 40-minute drive from Innsbruck.

The couple transformed a former bakery into 11 thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments, each reflecting a modern Alpine aesthetic with clean lines and natural materials, offering guests a stylish and comfortable base. Downstairs, a charming cafe serves sumptuous breakfast spreads and homemade cakes, providing the perfect fuel for active days. Guests can spend their time swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lautersee, cycling to the source of the Isar River through the breathtaking Karwendel nature park, or embarking on a challenging hike to Germany’s highest brewery, Karwendelbräu. Karls Mittenwald offers a refreshing take on Bavarian hospitality, blending local charm with contemporary comfort, making it ideal for those who appreciate design, nature, and a vibrant local culture. Apartments from £145 a night. (karls-mittenwald.de)

An Eco-Campsite in the Austrian Tirol: Gerhardhof

High above sea level, at nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 ft), Austria’s Mieming Sun Plateau lives up to its name with a mild microclimate and endless opportunities for looping hikes through fragrant pine forests and verdant Alpine meadows. This idyllic setting is home to Gerhardhof, a family farm transformed into a sustainability-minded campsite by Josef Volgger and his business partners. Josef grew up on this farm, which his parents had run as a small guesthouse, and the latest iteration honours this heritage while embracing modern ecological practices.

Gerhardhof boasts advanced eco-features, including grey water recycling systems, wood-chip heating, and solar energy, all designed to minimize its environmental footprint. A highlight is the naturally filtered swimming pond, offering a chemical-free dip amidst nature. The personal touch of the Volgger family remains central to the experience, with Josef’s mother, Edith, still baking her renowned apple strudel in the onsite bakery. The restaurant serves classic Austrian comfort food, such as Wiener Schnitzel and hearty Käsespätzle (an Alpine mac and cheese), ensuring guests are well-nourished after their outdoor pursuits. Gerhardhof offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides an immersive, eco-conscious camping experience that connects guests with the land, its traditions, and the stunning natural beauty of the Austrian Tirol. Pitches from £38 a night. (gerhardhof.com)

A 500-Year-Old Inn in the Italian Dolomites: 1477 Reichhalter

In the charming South Tirolean town of Lana, where Italian flair meets Austrian tradition, stands 1477 Reichhalter, a building steeped in five centuries of history. Over its long life, this venerable structure has served many purposes – a butcher’s shop, a bakery, a sawmill, a stable, and a tavern – each incarnation adding layers to its unique character. Since 2018, it has been meticulously reborn as a restaurant with eight exquisite bedrooms, showcasing a thoughtful blend of heritage and contemporary design.

The interiors are a testament to understated elegance, with mid-century furniture complementing original features. Room number 4, named Helmsdorf, offers a private balcony with captivating views of the Vigiljoch mountain and the historic Braunsberg Castle, perfect for morning coffee or an evening aperitivo. Schönhüller, another favoured room, enchants guests with its raw plaster walls and a traditional tiled stube stove, providing a cozy, authentic feel. Guests are encouraged to explore the surroundings, with bicycles available for borrowing. Downstairs, the restaurant’s tables spill onto the pedestrianized street, creating a lively, inviting atmosphere. The menu celebrates regional gastronomy with dishes like delicious beef tartare and a vibrant house salad featuring homemade pickled vegetables and seasonal produce from the kitchen garden of its sister hotel, Villa Arnica. 1477 Reichhalter offers a sophisticated retreat that honours its past while providing a refined experience for modern travellers in the heart of the Dolomites. Doubles from £170 B&B. (1477reichhalter.com)

A Bauhaus Guesthouse in Italy’s South Tirol: Briol

Perched high above Barbiano and the Eisack valley, offering panoramic views that stretch across the dramatic South Tirolean landscape, Briol is more than just a guesthouse; it’s a philosophy. For 40 years, Johanna Fink ran her family’s Alpine hotel with an uncompromising commitment to simple efficiency: sheets air-drying in the crisp mountain air, and guests summoned to dinner by the resonant chime of a cowbell at precisely 7 pm. Now, her children, Victoria and Valentin von Klebelsberg, have taken the helm, ensuring that Briol remains charmingly, defiantly, the same.

The main house underwent a significant renovation in 1928 by artist Hubert Lanzinger, who imbued it with the radical modernist principles of the Bauhaus style. This translates into an experience focused on simplicity and connection with nature: bedrooms are intentionally unheated (though a hot-water bottle service provides warmth), guests share communal bathrooms, and there are no TVs, Wi-Fi, or even pictures on the walls. This deliberate lack of modern distractions is, for many, its greatest appeal. With such breathtaking views of the mountain meadows and valleys, the absence of digital noise is a welcome invitation to slow down, reflect, and fully immerse oneself in the serene surroundings. Hiking trails fan out directly from the doorstep, promising endless opportunities for exploration and profound natural engagement. Briol is an ideal retreat for those seeking a truly unplugged and contemplative escape. Doubles from £255 half-board. (briol.it)

By the Lake

A Houseboat on a Swedish Lake: Stugbaat

In the expansive and pristine Dalsland region of Sweden, known for its thousands of lakes and dense forests, Stugbaat offers a truly unique floating escape. This collection of five exquisitely designed houseboats drifts gently across the vast expanse of Lake Lelång, part of an interconnected waterway system that epitomizes Sweden’s natural beauty. Each houseboat, constructed on a sturdy aluminium or stainless steel pontoon, comes equipped with its own small motorboat, granting guests the freedom to tow their tiny house to a secluded cove or simply putter ashore to explore the wilderness.

While the allure of the lake is paramount, the surrounding land also offers ample opportunities for adventure. Guests can climb the scenic Egersknatten mountains, forage for wild berries and chanterelles in the forests, visit the fascinating straw museum in Bengtsfors, or enjoy a craft brew at the microbrewery in Torrskog. However, the heart of the Stugbaat experience truly lies with the water. The wooden deck surrounding each cabin invites guests to fish, dive directly into the cool lake, or take out the included paddleboard. For further aquatic exploration, kayaks are available for hire, and a floating sauna promises ultimate relaxation. Ultimately, Stugbaat is about embracing the freedom of the lake – dropping anchor, doing nothing, and soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Swedish wilderness. From £233 a night (two-night minimum), sleeps 4. (stugbaat.se)

Back-to-Nature Cabins in Sweden: Naturbyn

Deep within the serene Värmland region of West Sweden, on the shores of the tranquil Lake Eldan, lies Naturbyn, a testament to one man’s vision of living in harmony with nature. Thomas Peterson began by hand-building a single log cabin amidst a section of pine and spruce forest. His passion grew, leading to the creation of six more unique accommodations: additional log cabins, a treehouse nestled high in the canopy, and even a floating cabin on the water. All seven structures at Naturbyn are intentionally off-grid, eschewing modern conveniences like Wi-Fi and electricity in favour of the rustic charm of wood-burning stoves and paraffin lamps, offering a profound digital detox.

Each cabin provides captivating views of Lake Eldan, and some even boast grass roofs dotted with tiny wild strawberries, seamlessly blending into the natural landscape. In true Swedish fashion, a traditional sauna awaits on the lakeshore, offering a rejuvenating experience after a day of outdoor pursuits. Beyond the comfort of the cabins, guests are encouraged to borrow a canoe to explore the lake’s quiet inlets, forage for wild edibles in the surrounding forest, or discreetly observe local wildlife, with elk sightings not uncommon among the trees. Evenings can be spent fishing for pike for supper or simply gazing at the inky, star-filled sky, far from light pollution. Naturbyn is a haven for those seeking a genuine wilderness immersion, a place to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Cabins from £160 a night, sleeps 2. (naturbyn.se)

A Waterfront Hotel in Jutland: Ny Hattenæs

In the heart of Denmark’s picturesque Lake District on the Jutland peninsula, the 19th-century mill town of Silkeborg proudly bears the title of Denmark’s outdoor capital. Just south of this vibrant hub, on the forested shore of Brassø Lake, stands Ny Hattenæs. Originally opened in 1896 as a charming summer boarding house, this waterfront hotel has evolved into a year-round retreat, though summer undeniably remains its most enchanting season. Days are long and luminous, the lake teems with swimmers, paddleboarders, and canoeists, and the hotel’s expansive terrace offers the perfect vantage point to savour the lingering twilight hours.

In 2022, Ny Hattenæs underwent a stylish revamp by the sibling trio behind the esteemed Danish design house, Society of Lifestyle. The hotel’s 14 bedrooms now exude a refined Nordic aesthetic, furnished with elegant pieces from House Doctor and stocked with natural Meraki products in the bathrooms. Room number 7 stands out as a plum pick, boasting a spacious balcony that provides sweeping views over the tranquil waters. The design, while contemporary, respectfully nods to the hotel’s long history and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Ny Hattenæs offers an idyllic blend of Danish design, lakeside leisure, and outdoor adventure, making it a sophisticated retreat for those seeking both relaxation and active exploration in Denmark’s captivating lake country. Doubles from £205 B&B. (nyhattenaes.com)

A New-Gen Hotel in Bavaria: Blyb

Less than an hour’s drive south of Munich, Lake Tegernsee is a perennial favourite for city dwellers seeking a summer escape. Traditionally, it’s a place where Bavarian clichés abound: leafy beer gardens, hearty knödel dumplings in farmhouse restaurants, and picturesque boat trips on the lake, often with locals still sporting Lederhosen and dirndls. However, in the quiet village of Gmund am Tegernsee, the recently opened Blyb offers a refreshing, new-generation counterpoint to this traditional scene.

Housed in a beautiful villa dating back to 1892, Blyb respectfully preserves original architectural details like intricate stucco paintings and ornate wooden balconies. Yet, these historical elements are boldly juxtaposed with crisp monochrome decor, creating a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that feels both fresh and rooted. The culinary experience is equally modern, with a restaurant helmed by the team behind Munich’s hip Mural spot, promising innovative and delicious dining. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor yoga deck or attend unique events, from a casual doner kebab and DJ pop-up to intimate unplugged gigs held in the library. Blyb successfully redefines the Bavarian lakeside retreat, appealing to those who appreciate a sophisticated blend of heritage, design, and vibrant cultural programming, all while retaining access to the classic charms of Tegernsee. Doubles from £112 room-only. (blyb.co)

Lakeside Cabins in a German Biosphere Reserve: Lodge am See (Raus)

In 2021, Berlin school friends Julian Trautwein, Johann Ahlers, and Christopher Eilers founded Raus with a clear mission: to reconnect urban dwellers with nature. Their initial handful of sustainably built cabins near German cities has now grown to over 100, culminating this year in Lodge am See. This unique "cabin resort" concept features 17 thoughtfully designed huts nestled by a serene lake within the UNESCO Elbe River Landscape Biosphere Reserve, strategically located between the bustling cities of Berlin and Hamburg.

The region is celebrated for its tranquil cycle paths, inviting guests to explore the gentle landscape at a leisurely pace. However, the water itself is an equally compelling draw. Guests have access to free paddleboards, with canoe hire available nearby, encouraging exploration of the lake’s calm surface. The biosphere reserve is a haven for wildlife, offering fantastic opportunities for birdwatching, with sea eagles, majestic storks, and elegant cranes frequently spotted above the wetlands. The sustainably built cabins at Lodge am See embody Raus’s core philosophy, providing a comfortable yet minimalist base for immersive nature experiences. It’s an ideal escape for those seeking peace, outdoor activity, and a chance to observe diverse wildlife in a protected natural environment. Cabins from £126 a night, sleep 2. (raus.life)

Log Cabins in Finland’s Vast Lakeland: Sahanlahti Resort

Finland’s Lakeland is Europe’s largest, a mesmerizing, watery labyrinth composed of thousands of interconnected lakes, rivers, and channels. At its heart lies Lake Saimaa, an inland archipelago dotted with nearly 14,0