Christmas vacation is just around the corner and it’s about to get real this year. While you might be drawn to escape the cold, there is something special about spending the festive season in a chilly country.
No doubt the best place for the job, Europe is blessed with vastly diverse countries that offer exceptional beauty and magic during wintertime. Picture yourself sipping spiced cocoa, snuggled around a fireplace with your loved ones, watching the snow fall outside the window while lights from the Christmas tree flicker in the reflection. If this sounds like the perfect Christmas to you, keep on reading!
From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the star-studded skies of Iceland to the rugged fjords of Scandinavia, there is no shortage of exciting places to visit in Europe. If you’re pining for a cozy winter getaway, staying in a Christmas cabin in Europe is a great place to start.
I’ve compiled a list of 15 winter cabins on the continent, from modern cabins resembling spaceships in Norway to traditional log cabins nestled in the woods in Eastern Europe. Let’s take a look!
2 Bedroom Chalet in The Dolomites
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Jacuzzi deck
- > Homey living room with indoor fireplace
2 Bed A-Frame Cabin in Romania
- > $
- > 6 Guests
- > Private sauna and jacuzzi
- > Cozy dining area
7-Bed Chalet with Sauna in France
- > $$$$
- > 14 Guests
- > Movie theatre and foosball table
- > Abundant natural light
Staying in a Cabin at Christmas in Europe
Europe has one of the most diverse landscapes on the planet. During the winter months, you could visit Southern Europe’s dramatic Alpine mountain ranges, explore Scandinavia‘s rugged coastline, or venture into Eastern Europe’s seemingly endless forests.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Depending on the country you’re looking to visit, cabins might be referred to as cottages or chalets. Don’t get flustered; these are all just words for the same thing. Typically speaking, cabins are located away from the bustle of capital cities in remote wooded and mountainous areas.
Traditionally, cabins are small homes built from local materials. They usually have a central living, cooking, and dining area, log walls, and glass windows that open onto a patio or balcony overlooking great views. Speaking about views – this is one of the main features of any cabin.
All in all, cabins offer a cozy atmosphere for families, couples, and even solo adventurers looking to escape city life. Since they’re usually located in remote regions surrounded by nature and adventure, staying in one of the best cabins at Christmas in Europe is an outstanding option for adventurous travelers.
What to Look For in a Christmas Cabin in Europe
When you rent out a cabin, you’ll gain access to an entire self-catering home with a kitchen, living space, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Though, not all cabins are equal. While Christmas cabins in the USA tend to have double-height ceilings, hot tubs, and fire pits, European chalets are usually smaller, with lower ceilings and built-in dining areas.
Photo: @Nic Hilditch-Short
Of course, you’ll want to make sure you choose a cabin with central heating, a fireplace, and even heated floors and towel railings for extra warmth. I don’t know about you, but for me, the whole point of a winter holiday is to be cozy and warm.
If you’re visiting with family, plenty of cabins have multiple bedrooms suitable for children, along with child-friendly games and amenities. I would also recommend finding a property with private parking. While this is a common amenity, there are a few European cabins at Christmas that are so remote you have to hike to them on foot – no good if you’re traveling with kids and tons of baggage.
Most of the top cabins in Europe are listed on Airbnb, with a few serviced cabins advertised on Booking.com.
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The Top 15 Cabins at Christmas in Europe
Whatever your ideal winter vacation looks like, I have no doubt you will find a cabin to fit your Christmas festive season dreams in this list:
Overall Best Value Christmas Cabin in Europe – Alpine Chalet with Hot Tub – French Alps
- $$
- 12 Guests
- Balcony with hot tub
- Ski-in/ski-out facilities
Set on the border of France and Switzerland, this cabin is the ultimate winter destination for alpine-loving families. The alpine haven has ski-in and ski-out facilities, a terrace with lake views, and a hot tub to relax in after a day in the mountains.
Places to Visit Nearby:
- Chatel Village
- La Ravine
- Lac de Morgins
Start your day with a cup of steaming coffee on the patio, watching the colors change over the lake. This exquisite cabin is set in one of the most tranquil places to stay in France, surrounded by towering mountains and cozy alpine villages. With six bedrooms, this spacious cabin in Europe for Christmas is large enough to fit the full extended family, plus a few extras!
An incredible place to reconnect with nature and family, the cabin has a modern living room with a central fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and traditional wooden interiors.
Best Budget Christmas Cabin in Europe – Acasa Straja Vintage Cabin – Romania
- $
- 6 Guests
- Private sauna and jacuzzi
- Cozy dining area
Set at the foot of the Straja Ski Resort, just a few steps from the ski lifts, this A-frame structure is one of the country’s best and most affordable winter cabins. Whether you’re a huge fan of winter sports or are just after a relaxing and cozy escape, the two-story cabin is the perfect size for a family of six.
Light a fire and sip a cup of mulled wine in the living room before enjoying a rejuvenating sauna, all while taking in the mountain views. Best of all, you won’t have to break the bank to do so!
Best Christmas Cabin for Couples in Europe – Mi Chalet – The Dolomites
- $$
- 2 Guests
- Jacuzzi deck
- Homey living room with indoor fireplace
Designed by a well-known architect in the pristine region of Trentino-Alto Adige in the Italian Dolomites, this chalet combines the traditional cabin experience with ultimate luxury. The unique cabin follows a modern design, with an abundance of glass windows and walls that will make you feel like you are one with the surrounding mountains, even from the comfort of the living room.
Guests can enjoy access to a hot tub, swimming pool, ski storage room, gym, and a free shuttle bus to the ski lifts at this European Christmas cabin.
Best Christmas Cabin for Groups of Friends in Europe – Mountain Villa with Pool – Poland
- $$$
- 12 Guests
- Chef-standard kitchen
- Traditional log cabin interiors
What looks relatively unassuming and small from the outside is, in fact, a spacious six-bedroom log cabin. Just a short drive from Zakopane and Bialka Tatrzanska in the Polish mountains, the cabin is surrounded by snowy hills and icicle-heavy trees.
Designed like a traditional mountain cabin, the home has warm log interiors, wooden furnishings, underfloor heating, and a private hot tub. Ideal for a group of friends, guests can cook up a feast in the well-equipped kitchen and enjoy the meal around the large central dining table.
Over-the-Top Luxury Cabin at Christmas in Europe – Chalet Valentine with Sauna – France
- $$$$
- 14 Guests
- Movie theatre and foosball table
- Abundant natural light
If luxury is what you seek, you’ll find it at this exquisite retreat in the prestigious French ski resort of Meribel. The incredible property is on the mountainside overlooking the ski resort, with multiple levels servicing seven bedrooms and six bathrooms.
With amenities including a hot tub, sauna, and cleaning available during the stay, you’ll be well looked after and rested after a stay at this modern cabin. An added benefit? The concierge will pick you up and drop you off at the airport, free of charge.
Best Cabin at Christmas for Long-Term Travelers – HOCHoben Chalets – Austria
- $$
- 4 Guests
- Ski storage and bike rental service
- Airport shuttle available
If you’re looking to settle in one of the best cabins in Europe at Christmas, these cabins by HOCHoben are equipped with full kitchens, have gorgeous mountain views, and are excellently located in the ski town of Mallnitz in Austria (which also happens to be a more affordable ski town – as ski towns go). Each cabin has free parking, Wi-Fi, and a terrace with mountain views.
That said, the modern cabins also include hotel-like amenities, including breakfast prepared daily, room service, a spa and wellness center, and a restaurant and bar on site.
Best Christmas Cabin in Europe for Backpackers – Balmers Hostel – Switzerland
- $
- 1 Guest
- Traditional Swiss chalet with a courtyard
- Switzerland’s oldest private hostel
Switzerland is known for its winter ski resort scene, apres buzz, and social atmosphere. If you’re itching to stay in a cabin but can’t afford it, the Balmers Hostel in Interlaken offers a Swiss chalet experience for a fraction of the price.
The hostel only welcomes those above 18 years old and is the oldest of all of the hostels in Switzerland. Set across three traditional Swiss chalets surrounding gardens and a courtyard, it is the perfect place to both rest and make friends after a day shredding it up on the slopes.
Top All-Inclusive Cabin at Christmas in Europe – Les Edelweiss Mont-Blanc Mountain Views – France
- $$$
- 15 Guests
- Spa and wellness center access
- Tasty breakfast served daily
There is nothing quite like returning to your serviced chalet after a day on the slopes; your bed has been turned down, the fire is already lit, and dinner is ready and waiting in the dining room. This cabin in the French Alps of Les Edelweiss Mont-Blanc offers breakfast included in the rate each morning, as well as a restaurant that serves local cuisine on the property.
It also includes a spa and wellness center and a small casino. It really is the perfect combination of a private cabin with hotel-like amenities.
Best Christmas Cabin for Families Visiting Europe – Luxurious Cabin & Jacuzzi – Norway
- $$
- 10 Guests
- Pack and play travel crib and board games available
- Close to cross-country ski trails
Easily one of the best cabins in Europe for Christmas with your family, this Norweigian cabin in Viken has plenty of space and bedrooms to spread out over the winter season. Just a two-hour drive from the capital of Oslo, the cabin is surrounded by the idyllic Vegglifjell mountain range, built with traditional log materials and vaulted ceilings.
Bedrooms with bunk beds are suitable for children, who can play in the backyard and on the patio while the adults enjoy a traditional Scandinavian wood-fired sauna overlooking the mountains. It truly is the perfect fit for a large family.
Cabin in Europe with the Best Views – Northern Lights City Views – Iceland
- $$
- 4 Guests
- Free parking on the premises
- Striking modern architecture
Not too many Christmas cabins in Europe can compare with the views from this spot in northeast Iceland. Inspired by Scandinavian architecture, with minimalistic interiors, you’ll be snapping pics of this structure all stay long.
Located on a hill in the residential region of Vaðlaheiði, the cabin overlooks the surrounding snowy landscape and twinkling city lights below. It’s also one of the best places to stay in Iceland for the Northern Lights, which shimmer an otherworldy blue and green above the sky in the dark winter months.
Christmas Cabin with the Most Epic Location – 5-Bed Cabin with Panoramic Views – Norway
- $$
- 12 Guests
- EV charging station
- Scandinavian-inspired interiors with 360-degree views
What looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, this unique modern cabin in Viken, Norway, is inspired by traditional Scandinavian design, featuring abstract architectural features, glass walls, and minimalistic interiors.
It seems small from the outside, but the spacious cabin has five full bedrooms, suitable for up to twelve guests. Its location gives it its dramatic personality, set 900 meters above sea level and the tree-line in the Hardangervidda mountains. As you might expect, the views are exceptional from every room in the cabin…
The Most Beautiful Christmas Cabin in Europe – Luxury Cabin Syrma – France
- $$$
- 10 Guests
- Elevator and dedicated workspace
- 3-minute walk from ski lifts
Built for ski vacations in the famous ski resort of Courchevel in France, this stunning chalet has five bedrooms and plenty of well-designed central living spaces where families and friends can enjoy each other’s company.
Made from local salvaged wood, the home features traditional cabin architecture, with large glass walls inviting plenty of natural light into the space. The perfect cabin in Europe for a Christmas getaway, each bedroom is beautifully designed, with exquisite views. To top things off, the cabin includes a hot tub and a property manager, who will ensure everything runs smoothly during your stay.
Most Traditional Cabin at Christmas in Europe – Cabin Wapiti – France
- $$
- 15 Guests
- Washer and dryer facilities
- Double-height ceilings and wooden interiors
Although recently built, this large nine-bedroom cabin is one of the most traditional on this list. Inspired by a blend of a cozy European chalet and a spacious American mountain cabin, the home is built from local timber, with double-height ceilings, and extensive glass walls inviting natural light into the central living space.
The modern kitchen is fit for a chef, with all the necessary appliances to prepare a five-star meal. That said, the chalet comes with a private chef (for an additional cost) and a concierge who will be available for any questions during your stay.
Most Unique Cabin at Christmas in Europe – Birdbox Cabin Near Ski Resort – Norway
- $$
- 2 Guests
- Pack and play and travel crib
- Remote feeling with valley views
Another abstract cabin in Europe for Christmas, this unique Scandinavian home in Norway is one of the most exciting builds in the region and, surprise surprise, offers some of the best views. Relax in the cozy living room as you gaze across the snow-capped mountains that surround the cabin.
Great for cross-country skiers, you can ski out right from the cabin and explore tons of breathtaking trails. Besides its interesting architecture, the most unique thing about this cabin is its completely isolated location. You’ll feel as if you’re the only people in the area.
Most Beautiful Arctic Cabin in Europe – Cabin with Ski-In/Ski-Out Access – Finland
- $
- 7 Guests
- Fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspace
- Views of the Northern Lights
Located in the northern region of Finland, surrounded by snow-heavy trees at the Levi Ski Resort, this modern cabin is one of the best places to marvel at the glistening northern lights from the comfort of your private living room.
The cabin has four bedrooms and space for seven guests. Considering its prime (yet remote) location and gorgeous modern interiors and amenities, it is on the market for a steal of a price. Make yourself at home with a full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, and free parking on the property.
Don’t Forget Your Europe Travel Insurance
Don’t ruin Christmas… The best gift you can get yourself if you’re going away is good insurance for traveling abroad.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Cabins at Christmas in Europe
Chalets, cottages, or cabins – whatever you like to call them, these small log-built homes are known worldwide as the quintessential Christmas season accommodation. Whichever country you wish to visit, staying in a beautiful cabin in Europe is an outstanding idea for travelers looking to escape the city or for those craving outdoor adventure and some brisk fresh air.
There are so many exceptional cabins on this huge continent that this list could go on forever. That said, this round-up of the best cabins at Christmas in Europe should offer a good preview into the different types of cabins you can stay in across the continent.
You’ll never forget that Christmas in your own cozy cabin, surrounded by great people. That’s the best gift you could ask for.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
