The arrival of autumn and its fresh crisp air compels some travelers to seek out cozy country retreats where they can admire the vibrant tableaux of fall leaves or mountain getaways where they can enjoy the first snow falls. There’s no better place to stay snug in the evenings then by a crackling fire. From a lavish cabin in Colorado to a magnificent castle in Scotland, here are 10 luxurious vacation rentals with fabulous fireplaces.
Chalet Le Chardon – Val D’Isère, France
Situated just to the side of Solaise Mountain, Chalet Le Chardon is the ideal retreat for ski enthusiasts of all levels. This luxurious villa, available through Ultimate Luxury Chalets, boasts 10 en-suite bedrooms with floor to ceiling windows offering unparalleled views of the Manchet Valley and Vanoise National Park and a fabulous outdoor fireplace and other outdoor stoves.
Chalet Le Chardon’s two separate living areas, large entertainment room, cosy study, and full dining room makes it a fitting choice for families and large groups. The expansive private terrace is superb location for unforgettable barbecues. During winter, drinks can be served from a hand-crafted snow bar.
After an energetic day on the slopes, guests can ski back or opt for luxurious private car service to return to Chalet Le Chardon for afternoon tea and cake will be served. Unwind from skiing in one of two private hot tubs (one outdoors) with a glass of champagne or swim laps in the chalet’s 18ft swim spa. Chalet Le Chardon also offers treatments by fully trained physiotherapists, and a grand fireplace where you can take a break in opulent style before hitting the slopes again in the morning.
Plan your next late autumn or early winter escape to Chalet Le Chardon with Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.
Villa F – Venice, Italy
Luxurious and exclusive, the 16th-century Villa F offers 11 opulent suites in what was once served as a residence to a number of noble Venetian families. Following a careful restoration, Villa F has transitioned into a new concept in Venetian hospitality, catering to sophisticated travelers who wish to experience Venice with modern flair.
Villa F is located on Giudecca Island, known as “the Soho of the Lagoon,” which remains a well-kept secret. A welcome escape from the swarms of tourists in the city center, Villa F allows for a serene stay while remaining a close to the city center for shopping, restaurants, and easy access to Venice’s best museums. Thanks to Villa F’s private shuttle boat service, available daily around the clock for guests departing from its dock to all the sister Bauer Hotels at San Marco, transportation from Giudecca into the center has never been easier. The Villa’s conciergerie can also organize custom water transfers to and from the airport as well as tours to other islands in the lagoon.
Villa F’s charm lies in its history. The historic property itself was extremely popular in the early 20th century when it was an upscale pensione. During that era, Villa F catered to an eclectic clientele of painters, writers, and actors such as Gabriele D’Annunzio, Eleonora Duse, and Mabel Holland. After many years of careful restoration, the Villa F reopened to guests who can now revel in its original wall frescoes and Italian and Venetian ‘Terrazzo’ floors without sacrificing in contemporary luxuries.
Each of Villa F’s 11 residences is unique and varies in size and many have beautiful fireplaces. For example, the Residenza Opale, pictured above, is a large one-bedroom studio with a working fireplace and wet bar cabinet. The smaller Residenza Turchese offers a one bedroom residence with an en-suite bathroom and a living room, featuring a dry bar cabinet and garden views or for more space, the Residenza F includes two master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, large closets, a powder room and a living room with eight north-facing windows, featuring gorgeous views of San Marco.
All guests can enjoy Villa F’s extensive three-acre gardens, which include a beautiful meditation pool, as well as full access to the facilities of the nearby Palladio Hotel & Spa and the De Pisis Restaurant at the Bauer Palazzo Hotel. With stunning views of San Marco’s renowned square and the Santa Maria della Salute church, Villa F makes for a memorable stay in the floating city.
Fork Cabin – Aspen, Colorado, USA
Set on the Roaring River and facing an open view of the mountains, this unique four-bedroom rental by Villas and Apartments Abroad is located in a chic location in Aspen, only a short walk from the heart of of the city. It boasts a 2,500 sq. ft. of outdoor living space with custom fire feature and spa.
There’s no better place to warm up after a fun day on the slopes than in front of the crackling fireplace on this amazing cabin’s exquisite multi-level terrace where you can savor the sights and sounds of the incredible Aspen Mountain and the Roaring Fork River. For the brave in winter, dine at the harvest table made of reclaimed teak wood found in a pergola. Afterwards, sooth your muscles in the heated spa.
Indoors, you’ll be in awe of the living area with eleven-foot ceilings, a custom fireplace with hand-wrought copper mantel, exposed wood beams and whole wall of windows, creating a beautiful natural living painting. The cocktail area, complete with four leather swivel chairs, stonework, a cowhide rug, original artwork and a rustic chandelier, is the perfect place for a before or after dinner drink.
Home chefs will love the cabin’s professionally equipped kitchen fitted out with granite stone countertops, custom designer cabinets and top-of-the-line appliances and culinary tools. There is also an outdoor kitchen, situated just outside the indoor kitchen.
Accommodation is divided amongst four bedrooms, three of which are splendid master suites and the fourth a kids’ bunkroom with two custom-made, oversized twin beds with personal, in-bunk TVs and Xbox One. The crème de la crème of all the bedrooms is the Aspen Terrace Master with unbelievable views of the mountains, an exceptional king-sized hand-forged iron canopy bed adorned with a double pillow top mattress, Egyptian cotton sheets and Ralph Lauren bedding. The en-suite bathroom is virtually a spa in itself and has a stone double vanity, water closet, soaking tub and walk-in shower.
While feeling very much secluded, guests can reach the center of town on foot in ten minutes via the adjacent Rio Grande Trail. Here you’ll find Aspen’s five-star restaurants and excellent range of high-end shopping.
Pamper yourself on a deluxe ski trip to Aspen with Villas and Apartments Abroad here.
Glenapp Castle – Scotland, U.K.
Envelop yourself in the warmth of the stunning rooms and fantastic fireplaces of this sprawling 19th-century castle located near Scotland’s southwest coastline. Built for the Earl of Inchcape, the regal residence has been opened to guests since 2000 and is available through Loyd & Townsend Rose. The building immediately impresses with its formidable stone exterior and you are greeting with sublime Victorian splendour found throughout the interiors.
The wonderful castle is set within 36 acres of private grounds that are completely secluded and for the exclusive use of the castle guests. They include an Italian Garden designed by the renowned 19th-century garden architect Gertrude Jekyll. You can spend your days meandering the laneways and taking in the changing leaves and crisp autumn air, plus undertake further hiking and exploring in this lovely part of Scotland.
The castle’s 17 guest rooms have been individually and luxuriously styled with a unique blend of fabrics, furnishings, antiques, artwork and open fires. Several of the suites feature magnificent views over the surrounding woodland and the sea. Your stay will be capped off in the evenings with divine meals in the castle’s award-winning restaurant.
Experience the best of Scotland at the Glenapp by contacting Loyd & Townsend Rose at this link.
Chateau Mireille – Provence, France
Enjoy mild autumn and winter days in Provence in this seven-bedroom 18th-century manor, or bastide, situated near the charming St-Rémy-de-Provence and available through Haven in.
Chateau de Mireille exudes classic French style with its elegant antiques, original artwork, and classic architectural features such as terracotta tiles, and high, wood beam ceilings. With two polished living rooms, a fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, a formal dining room with large fireplace (and several other decorative ones throughout), a study, a master bedroom, and three additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, Chateau de Mireille makes for a luxurious stay with family or friends.
The phenomenal grounds feature a formal garden with manicured topiary, a wonderful in-ground pool with a terrace overlooking the gardens, a tennis court, and a variety of outdoor seating and dining areas. From alluring lavender fields to rolling vineyards and from vibrant villages to the breathtaking Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles, some of the region’s best features are at your fingertips.
During your stay, a housekeeper will prepare breakfast as well as take care of some light tidying— allowing you to sit back and enjoy your time in Provence.
Discover more about this singular villa by reaching out to Haven in here.
Casa Chimera – Klosters, Switzerland
After an exciting day of skiing, there is nothing better than unwinding in front of a log fire. With its comfy couches and prominent fireplace, families will especially love staying at PT Ski’s Casa Chimera. Built in 2005 as a luxury family home, the chalet is near the lifts and centre of Klosters village. Its spacious feel and Alpine charm makes Casa Chimera ideal for family getaways.
With spacious rooms able to accommodate up to 10 guests in five beautiful bedrooms, each with its own bathroom or shower room, the chalet is a perfect fit for your next family vacation. The space features an open-plan living space divided into three sections: a double-height living room with cosy sofas, a game room separated by a grand, double-sided fireplace, and a dining area with a spacious table that sits 14. Conveniently situated near the dining area, the kitchen is also on the first floor. Just off the hallway, guest will find an entertainment center fully equipped with a widescreen TV.
The chalet’s two master bedrooms are located on the second floor, each with its own fireplace and en-suite bathroom. Down the hall, there is another double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. On the ground floor, there are two bedrooms featuring twin beds with en-suite bathrooms, perfect for kids. The ground floor also features a sauna and separate power shower. Additionally, as a luxurious touch, the ski boot racks in the ski room are heated.
While traveling with kids can be stressful, the chalet has a dedicated, live-in staff of two who help facilitate your stay by preparing both breakfasts and late afternoon tea to help you unwind after hitting the slopes. Each evening, they also prepare and serve a four course dinner, preceded by canapés.
PT Ski’s expert staff will help you take care of the details ahead of time. Contact them here to start planning your next luxury ski holiday in Klosters.
Schloss Kogl – Salzkammergut, Austria
As the snow starts sprinkling the mountaintops of Austria, retreat to the cozy and elegant environment of Schloss Kogl. The beautiful baroque castle is nestled within the country’s largest private forest in the Salzkammergut Lake District. This enchanting region east of Salzburg, dotted with pristine lakes, pre-alpine mountains, dense forests and charming villages, was once the countryside playground of Austria’s aristocracy, a favorite holiday spot of the Emperor and the country’s intellectual and artistic elite.
Built from the mid-18th century, the castle has been in the family of the Barons of Mayr-Melnhof since 1872. In the early 2000s the family began to carefully restore the castle to its previous glory. Guests will find a refined and comfortable series of rooms decorated in a fin-du-siècle style with elegant furnishings, antiques, paintings and lovely woodwork. Among these is the wonderful living room, pictured above, home to the grand piano and a gorgeous fireplace from the époque.
You can enjoy the pleasures of the region right on the castle’s spectacular grounds, by strolling through its gardens and private forest, plus nearby are breathtaking national parks, picture-perfect villages and magical Salzburg. If you visit in the late autumn you can also do your Christmas shopping at the area’s fabulous holiday markets.
Relax in Austrian refinement at Schloss Kogl at this link.
Villa di Torno – Lake Como, Italy
Experience the grandeur of the Italian Lake District at this spectacular villa with an intimate winter living room with decorative fireplace, crystal chandelier and family portraits as well as two double doors open to balcony to soak up a few gentle winter rays off Lake Como.
In the exquisite repertoire of Homebase Abroad, the stylish villa offers central air and heating for year-round comfort. Guests can relax on its spacious and private lakefront terrace to admire the breathtaking views of Cernobbio, Villa d’Este and and stunning sunsets.
Villa di Torno can accommodate up to 16 guests, with 12 in the main villa and an additional four in the equally luxurious Mansarda building. Italian aristocratic refinement are throughout the villas, from the grand Carrara marble staircase to the divine formal dining room. The old and the new are beautifully balanced thanks to antiques and historic paintings combined with excellent modern amenities like brand new walk-in closets, plasma TV screens and a semi professional kitchen with granite countertops.
On warm days, guests can spend time in the beautifully furnished outdoor living and dining spaces and the lakeside Conservatory. To facilitate your stay, Homebase Abroad suggests arranging the services of a skippered Venetian Taxi charter to be able to enjoy the pleasures of the lake and its neighboring villages to the fullest. The Alps are also nearby, making the property ideal for a few day trips to the slopes.
Take an opulent and cozy holiday on Lake Como by reaching out to Homebase Abroad at this link.
Chalet Mon Izba – Verbier, Switzerland
With panoramic views across the village below and expansive accommodation for up to 12 people spread over five floors, the Chalet Mon Izba creates a memorable, luxe ambiance, especially cozied up around its wonderful living room fireplace.
Available through Ultimate Luxury Chalets, Chalet Mon Izba is located in the mountains in the Sonalon area of Verbier, maximizing your connection to the natural landscape, while remaining close to the restaurants, bars, and shopping in Verbier’s city center.
After a day of skiing or exploration, relax in the living room next to the toasty fireplace and continue to savor the chalet’s exceptional views. After dark, settle into the plush entertainment room to watch the latest film while your kids play Nintendo Wii in the comfy TV room. An extensive entertainment system and all-round WiFi broadband will keep you entertained throughout your stay. Additionally, Chalet Mon Izba’s extensive wine cellar provides an intimate environment for enjoying a glass of wine and perusing the considerable wine collection.
Mon Izba’s private spa is one of the best in the Alps. With panoramic views of the mountains, the indoor pool and outdoor hot tub bring the stunning landscape to you, while the floor to ceiling glass sinks below the terrace, allowing guests to take in the crisp mountain air or prefer to stay cosy indoors. The adjoining massage room is separated from the pool by one way glass allowing for maximum privacy, while the sauna and hammam provide the perfect way to unwind after an active day on the ski slopes. Moreover, the state-of-the-art gym looks out over the outdoor hot tub across to the impressive mountains in the distance.
Contact Ultimate Luxury Chalets here to start planning your perfect ski trip to Verbier.
Kalalau Trail – Hawaii
An excellent place to stay in the area is at their Ka Hale Kaiola luxury beachfront home. The house has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors and air conditioning. The Tommy Bahama furnishings add to the great plantation style of the house. A large covered porch with Brown Jordan patio furniture looks out across the ocean. The beach is accessed by going down the staircase off the lanai and across the beautifully landscaped front yard. Then you’ll find yourself on the beach ready for a swim! For more information about this home or other properties located on the island, contact 
Despite the name, you shouldn’t have any dangerous close encounters with bears staying at the nearby gorgeous Grizzly Creek Ranch. A rustic yet very comfortable retreat, it can accommodate up to 30 guests. You’ll have exclusive use of the six different homes on the complex, including a wonderful dining and event hall, a recreation barn, yoga and massage cabin and more. Guided hiking can be arranged for Gallatin National Forest, Yellowstone, or you mightn’t even need to leave the property of the vast 2,000 acre ranch. For more information and to book see