Cozy Stays to Gather Round the Fire with Your Nearest and Dearest
Fire has played an integral role in human existence for millennia. Not only a source of light and heat on cold, dark nights, the communal fire was where everyone once gathered to prepare food, share stories and come together as a community. Given how ingrained this connection to the flames is in our collective identity, it’s no surprise that many still find comfort in gathering round the campfire to toast marshmallows or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate on a crisp evening. Truly one of life’s simple pleasures, all that’s needed to keep the magic going is to toss another log on the glowing embers.
With that in mind, and considering the increase in endorsements from travelers for hiking (94%), clean air (50%), nature (44%) and relaxation (33%) since the start of the pandemic*, we have delved into our more than 28 million listings in over 153,000 destinations around the world to present five beautiful stays in the USA, all with incredible outdoor fire pits. From classic campgrounds and glamping getaways to chic resorts, these escapes are sure to inspire the nearly three out of four US travelers (73%)** wanting to appreciate more simple experiences, such as spending time outdoors or with the family while on vacation, when it is safe to travel again.
AutoCamp Russian River, Guerneville, California
This luxury boutique glamping experience, just a mile outside of the small town of Guerneville, a former logging community in the heart of the Russian River valley in northern California, offers Airstreams and luxury tents with private fire pits, perfect for impromptu outdoor gatherings. Travelers can cozy up in front of a warm, crackling fire, surrounded by towering redwoods and enjoy a glass of local wine. Not only is the property just across the street from the actual Russian River, the iconic vineyards of Sonoma County are just a quick 15-minute drive away.
Gateway Canyons Resort, a Noble House Resort, Gateway, Colorado
Located in the Palisades region of Western Colorado, known for its stunning red mesas, this unique resort will help travelers disconnect from their daily routine of video calls and become more at one with nature. The endless outdoor activities available, including hiking, mountain biking and off-road adventures, help make for the ultimate outdoorsy escape. After a day of exploring, guests can relax around the resort’s picturesque fire pit, swapping stories as the sun goes down.
Under Canvas Moab, Moab, Utah
Surrounded by the stark and spectacular vistas of Arches National Park in southeastern Utah, these luxurious tents just north of Moab provide an unforgettable desert glamping experience. The resort’s fire pit is an ideal spot to relax and kick back against the backdrop of the impressive rock formations the nearby national park is renowned for. After a day of hiking or mountain biking through the unique Instagrammable landscapes, guests can relax with their friends around the fire, listening to the flames crackle and pop as they count the myriad stars twinkling across the night sky.
Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, East Harwich, Massachusetts
Nestled along the eastern coast of Massachusetts’ famed Cape Cod, this elegant resort is perfect for those who love morning walks by the ocean, fresh seafood or exciting outdoor activities like sailing or hiking. The property’s stylish fire pits overlook the aptly named Pleasant Bay and make for an idyllic spot to watch the sky blush in different hues of pink and orange at dusk. The flames will keep guests nice and toasty as they enjoy a cocktail on the terrace, serenaded by the crashing of waves on the nearby shore.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Koloa, Kauai
Overlooking the ocean, this boutique resort is located along pristine Poipu Beach on the southern shore of the island of Kauai. Known for its sugar production in the 19th century, Old Koloa Town’s charming historic buildings and old-fashioned storefronts are just a 10-minute drive away. After a day of swimming in the ocean or exploring the lush tropical landscapes of the Garden Island, guests can lounge outside by one of the property’s fire pits, watching the palms gently sway in the breeze as they wait for the stars to come out.
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*Based on endorsements left on Booking.com as part of post-stay reviews. Insight based on endorsements that saw the biggest increase in monthly usage between 1st April 2020 and 11th September 2020, compared to the average monthly endorsements between January 2019 and February 2020.
**Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who have traveled for business or leisure in the past 12 months, and must be planning to travel in the next 12 months (if/once travel restrictions are lifted). In total 20,934 respondents across 28 countries and territories were polled (including 999 from USA, 496 from Canada, 497 from Mexico, 997 from Colombia, 999 from Brazil, 499 from Argentina, 995 from Australia, 499 from New Zealand, 999 from Spain, 996 from Italy, 996 from France, 999 from UK, 996 from Germany, 498 from Netherlands, 499 from Denmark, 499 from Sweden, 498 from Croatia, 1001 from Russia, 498 from Israel, 997 from India, 994 from China, 499 from Hong Kong, 497 from Thailand, 496 from Singapore, 499 from Taiwan, 997 from South Korea, 500 from Vietnam and 995 from Japan). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2020.