Places to Stay
The dreamiest stays in the middle of nowhere.
Courtesy of Airbnb
There’s a reason so many people talk about leaving Wi-Fi, cell service, and city lights behind for a remote Airbnb that lets them connect with nature. For some, it’s their greatest nightmare. For others, the height of luxury. The middle of nowhere might be divisive in its allure, but there’s no denying what it can offer a certain type of traveler. Perhaps you want to connect with the great outdoors, or look deeper within yourself; maybe your motivation is as simple as getting some distraction-free reading done. Whatever the case, a remote Airbnb promises peace, quiet, and unparalleled access to nature—whether that looks like the craggy cliffs of an Icelandic fjord, or the lush Green Mountains of Maine. The properties on this list, which span from a vegetable farm in North Carolina to the Andean peaks of Patagonia, will offer you an experience unlike any other.
In the case of these excellent spots, “remote” doesn’t always have to mean inconveniently out of the way; some of these rentals, like a cottage in the Faroe Islands or a cabin in Tennessee, are within 20 minutes of an airport or major city, offering the best of both worlds. Below are 13 remote Airbnbs for when you want to disconnect from the world. Read on for something for every level of adventure, whether you dream of experiencing the stillness of the high desert in California or hanging out at the top of a mountain in Peru.
We've vetted these listings based on Superhost and Guest Favorite status, ratings, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor.
Jump to remote Airbnbs in:
Mountain cabin in Maine
Number of guests: 4
Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Why we love it: Hot tub, wood-burning fireplace, vinyl collectionIt’s tough to say whether this White Mountain hideaway looks better in the summer when it’s sprinkled with wildflowers, or in the winter when it’s blanketed in snow. Facing westward, the alpine home captures golden afternoon light and mountain sunsets from every room. The living area is a midcentury-modern dream, with its record player and expansive vinyl collection, while the outdoor patio is ideal for stargazing at night, thanks to a catamaran net that allows you to lie flat while staring up at the sky.
Location: Norway, Maine
Things to do nearby: Norway Brewing Company, Pennesseewassee Lake, Roberts Farm Preserve TrailsDreamy mountain container in Utah
Number of guests: 6
Bed & bath: 2 beds, 2 baths
Why we love it: Infrared sauna, firepit, access to red rock hikingSet at the base of a private sandstone peak, this luxury container home is pure Utah magic. Crafted from two high cube shipping containers, it features modern finishes, oversized tubs, smart beds, and an expansive 1,000-square-foot deck made for stargazing and sunrise coffee. With a cedar sauna and cozy indoor fireplace, it's as perfect for winter cocooning as it is for summer hikes. It’s a prime base for national park adventures (it’s close to Capitol Reef National Park and within driving distance of Bryce Canyon National Park) and intimate group getaways.
Location: Teasdale, Utah
Things to do nearby: Bluebell Knoll, Larb Hollow Overlook, Capitol Reef National Park
Secluded cabin in Tennessee
Number of guests: 4
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Why we love it: EV charger, private patio, long-term stays allowedIf reconnecting with nature is a top priority, this two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin fits the bill. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and 180-degree vistas, you'll never want to leave. Set on 42 acres, yet just half an hour from Nashville International Airport, the views are of trees, trees, and more trees. Take in the scenery while preparing a meal in the state-of-the-art kitchen (peep those copper pots and pans) or while birdwatching on the terrace. Cozy touches like a wood-burning stove and cushy leather furniture encourage travelers to silence their phones and disappear into a good book.
Location: Goodlettsville, Tennessee
Things to do nearby: Cedar Hill Park, Union Hill Trading Post, NashvilleOne-bedroom ranch in California
Number of guests: 2
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths
Why we love it: Unobstructed Sierra views, deep soaking tub, desert solitudeOn the edge of the vast Owens Valley near Death Valley National Park, this poetic desert cabin is framed by Mount Whitney and a sea of grazing cattle. Inside, find unobstructed views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, a wood-burning fireplace, and a warm bedroom with direct access to the outdoor bathtub. You come here not for polished amenities but for the romance of the Wild West—sunrises over red rocks, coyotes in the distance, and the feeling of stepping back in time. It's ideal for writers, dreamers, and anyone chasing the stillness of the high desert.
Location: Lone Pine, California
Things to do nearby: Mount Whitney, Shark Fin Trailhead, Turtle Creek Trailhead
Timberwood tiny home in North Carolina
Number of guests: 3
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Why we love it: Scandinavian interiors, wood-fired hot tub, cedar barrel saunaThis 200-square-foot tiny home proves small can be spectacular. Tucked on eight quiet acres outside Hillsborough, it features Scandinavian design paired with lovingly handcrafted details. Whitewashed pine, handmade ceramics, and East Fork pottery fill the space; outside, a porch nearly the size of the house leads to a sauna and hot tub surrounded by trees. There’s no TV, but you won’t miss it once the stars come out. This spot is perfect for adult duos looking to slow down and soak up some backcountry bliss.
Location: Efland, North Carolina
Things to do nearby: Kings Highway Park, downtown Hillsborough, Mebane Historical MuseumMirror suite in Iceland
Number of guests: 2
Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Why we love it: Hot tub, sauna, rain showerAn ideal stop along the Ring Road, this sleek mirrored home beautifully reflects Iceland’s stunning coastline. Inside, enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows, a queen-size bed, and a bathroom with a rain shower. Right outside, guests can soak in a hot tub while taking in the fresh air, or retreat to the separate unit that houses a private glass sauna with views of the fjord (just imagine how magical it’d be to take in the northern lights while breaking a sweat). While you will feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, the home is only a five-minute drive from the town of Búðardalur, where you can grab a bite to eat.
Location: Búðardalur, Iceland
Things to do nearby: Hólar Farm, Eiríksstaðir (Viking Longhouse), Ásgarðsgrund beach
Waterfall cottage in the Faroe Islands
Number of guests: 2
Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Why we love it: Ocean and mountain views, wildlife sightings, proximity to the airportLocated just a five-minute walk away from the world-renowned Múlafossur Waterfall, this one-bedroom home in the Faroe Islands feels undeniably remote, but is located just a 20-minute drive away from the airport. One of six cottages on the property, you may run into a small community of like-minded travelers as you bask in the dramatic Faroese scenery. You might even spot sheep, birds, and highland cows—and if you’re really lucky, the northern lights. Do note that the house can accommodate two extra guests for an added charge.
Location: Gásadalur, Faroe Islands
Things to do nearby: Drangarnir Sea Arch, Fjallavatn Lake, Fjósið restaurantModern bothy with Quiraing views in Scotland
Number of guests: 2
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths
Why we love it: Private deck, mountain views, fast Wi-FiThis sleek and cozy “bothy” (Scottish cottage) is a minimalist dream in the Scottish Highlands, with vaulted ceilings, soft Skyeskyns rugs, and uninterrupted views of the Quiraing and Trotternish Ridge. Open-plan and sunlit, it has everything you need to escape: a full kitchen, an en suite bath, and a wooden deck perfect for stargazing (or spotting the northern lights). It’s a peaceful retreat for hikers, writers, or couples who want to immerse themselves in Skye’s cinematic beauty without roughing it. Bonus: you’ll wake to total silence—and maybe a few sheep.
Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Things to do nearby: Staffin Beach, Kilt Rock Waterfall, Loch Shianta
Countryside home in Japan
Number of guests: 6
Bed and bath: 3 bedrooms, 1 bath
Why we love it: River access, bicycles for rent, mountain viewIf you’re planning a trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, consider stopping in the countryside to stay at this 100-year-old traditional home once owned by a green tea farmer. Surrounded by lush mountains, bamboo forests, tea fields, and a river, the house is designed to let the outside in, with wide windows and paper sliding doors. To get the most out of this remote retreat, consider booking a bamboo weaving workshop with the host Daisuke (guest reviewers gush that he is the nicest man to ever exist), or rent a few bikes to explore Fujieda.
Location: Fujieda, Japan
Things to do nearby: Utoge Waterfall, Kashiba-ya Museum, Mount BikuishiDragon egg cabin in Argentina
Number of guests: 2
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Why we love it: Hot tub, firepit, free parking on premisesSet in Argentine Patagonia, this whimsical yet serene pod‑like shell (inspired by the Welsh dragon masks created in the region) is one of a kind. It offers sweeping views of the Andean peaks and forests—you may even catch a glimpse of the snow-dusted summits, depending on the season. Inside, the materials and light are simple—thoughtfully composed wood, glass, and metal. Ideal for solo travelers or couples who want to dive into Patagonia’s wild energy: glaciers, trails, cold rivers, and long skies are all part of the package here. Come to unplug, to let nature take center stage, and to sleep in a sculpture.
Location: Trevelín, Argentina
Things to do nearby: Laguna Brychan, Trevelin lavender farm, Molino Andes museum
Breezy skylodge in Peru
Number of guests: 2
Bed & bath: 1 bed, shared bathroom
Top amenities: Unobstructed views, gourmet meals included, zip line accessNot for the faint of heart, this skylodge offers the chance to sleep in a fully transparent pod suspended 1,200 feet above Peru’s Sacred Valley. You arrive via zip line or a Via Ferrata climb—and the reward is staggering: 360-degree mountain views, an included gourmet dinner and breakfast, and an unmatched adrenaline rush. Best for fit travelers, thrill-seekers, and couples who want a night they’ll never forget (or stop posting about), this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Location: Urubamba, Peru
Things to do nearby: Flowers Path, Rancho Valle Dorado, Hacienda Puka Punku restaurantModern cabin in South Africa
Number of guests: 2
Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Why we love it: Hot tub, patio, mountain viewSituated on a working farm in South Africa’s Overberg region, this off-grid cabin is an unforgettable way to take in the Riviersonderend Mountains. It comes equipped with a king-size bed, a well-stocked kitchen, Wi-Fi, air conditioning—and arguably the best part—an outdoor patio housing a massive wood-fired hot tub. “It felt like my husband and I were the only two people there in the world,” one guest reviewer wrote.
Location: Riviersonderend, South Africa
Things to do nearby: Lord’s Wines, Greyton Nature Reserve, Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary
Snowgrass hut in New Zealand
Number of guests: 2
Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Why we love it: Outdoor bathtub, covered porch, access to trailsAs the host puts it, this New Zealand hut is so wonderfully secluded, “you won’t see a neighbor close by.” Tucked away in the valleys of Mount Somers, the one-bedroom home offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, perhaps best enjoyed from the windows encompassing your bed. You’ll find all the modern comforts too, like built-in USB chargers, heated towel racks, and electric blankets, but perhaps most convenient is the list of nearby hiking and biking trails that guests receive upon booking (there’s a pair of Moustache e-bikes available to use as well).
Location: Mount Somers, New Zealand
Things to do nearby: Emerald Pool, Lake Clearwater, Awa Awa Reserve
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Ashlea Halpern.
Paris Wilson is a former commerce writer at Condé Nast Traveler where she covered retail and booking content. Wanting to escape the harsh Michigan winters, she made her way down to Tallahassee, Florida to attend college. She spent four years at Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Design where ... Read More
Jessica Sulima is a Commerce Writer at Condé Nast Traveler, where she covers hotel and booking content, as well as travel deals. Originally from New Jersey, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she holds a Bachelor’s degree in English with minors in Spanish and Art History. Previously at Thrillist, ... Read More