Industry insights
10 most popular types of holiday rental accommodation
27 Feb 2026
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By Amanda Sanders
As a holiday rental host, you are always looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve and offer something unique. Trends in holiday accommodation are constantly evolving and it can be difficult to keep up. Travellers are increasingly searching for unique holiday rentals, experiential stays and distinctive property types rather than standard accommodation. To give you some inspiration, we have put together this guide exploring different types of holiday rental accommodation that can help your property stand out from the crowd. From mountain cabins to tiny homes, there is a style of holiday accommodation to suit every taste.
What Are the Most Popular Types of Holiday Rental Accommodation?
The most popular types of holiday rentals today include:
Beachfront condos
Mountain cabins
Luxury villas
Log cabins
Ski resort accommodation
Lakeside villas
City apartments
Off grid properties
Tiny homes
Boho bungalows
Each appeals to different traveller motivations, including relaxation, adventure, luxury, sustainability and convenience.
1. Beachfront Condos
Perfect for a beach getaway
Beachfront condos are ideal for travellers looking to get away from it all and relax in a beach themed holiday rental. Whether you are renting out a one bedroom unit with ocean views or an entire complex, beachfront condos offer the perfect option for guests who want to experience paradise without leaving the comfort of their own space.
Coastal tourism remains consistently popular in the UK and internationally, with seaside breaks continuing to attract families and couples. VisitBritain reports ongoing demand for domestic coastal holidays:
Why guests choose beachfront holiday rentals:
Direct beach access
Ocean or sea views
Private balconies
Easy access to restaurants and local attractions
Beachfront properties often command strong seasonal demand and premium nightly rates.
2. Mountain Cabins
A cosy retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life
If your guests are looking for a quiet mountain getaway, mountain cabins could be the perfect option. These cosy lodgings offer privacy and peacefulness surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
With plenty of outdoor activities in the area, from hiking to skiing, mountain cabins make guests feel right at home while still offering adventure. Nature based tourism continues to grow globally, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization
Mountain cabin highlights:
Secluded and tranquil locations
Access to hiking, cycling or skiing
Wood burning stoves and cosy interiors
Ideal for autumn and winter stays
3. Luxury Villas
A luxurious escape with lavish amenities
If your guests are looking for an ultra luxurious getaway, luxury villas are a strong choice. With opulent furnishings, lavish amenities and often unbeatable views, these elite holiday rentals offer travellers a truly unique experience.
From five star service to private pools and spa treatments, there is nothing quite like staying in a luxury villa.
Features that attract high value guests:
Private swimming pools
Spa facilities or hot tubs
Concierge services
Expansive indoor and outdoor space
Premium interior design
Luxury accommodation performs particularly well in established tourist hotspots and premium staycation destinations.
4. Log Cabins
Rustic but comfortable accommodation in nature
For travellers who appreciate the simple things in life, log cabins are an ideal choice. These rustic dwellings offer a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere nestled within stunning natural landscapes.
They provide the charm of traditional construction combined with modern comfort.
Popular amenities include:
Outdoor decking areas
Fire pits
Hot tubs
Pet friendly facilities
Log cabins are especially appealing to couples and families seeking countryside breaks.
5. Ski Resort Accommodation
Experience winter sports at their finest
Ski resorts offer guests the opportunity to enjoy winter sports in their finest form. With amenities such as ski lifts, equipment hire and onsite restaurants, these holiday rentals leave a lasting impression.
If your property is near a ski destination, highlighting proximity to slopes and seasonal facilities can significantly increase winter bookings.
Guests typically prioritise:
Easy slope access
Equipment storage
Nearby après ski venues
Family friendly ski schools
6. Lakeside Villas
An idyllic retreat for water lovers
For guests who love being near the water, lakeside villas offer an excellent option. With views of expansive natural scenery and opportunities for fishing, kayaking or other watersports, these holiday rentals are perfect for a peaceful escape.
Waterside tourism continues to trend across domestic travel markets. VisitEngland provides insight into growing rural and waterside travel demand:
Key lakeside selling points:
Waterfront views
Private docks or jetties
Access to water activities
Calm and scenic surroundings
7. City Apartments
Convenient, central and well equipped
City apartments combine convenient locations with modern amenities, making them an attractive holiday rental choice.
For travellers who want to explore a destination while staying in the heart of it all, city apartments offer ultimate convenience. Proximity to attractions, shops and restaurants, combined with features such as free WiFi and self check in, make them ideal for short breaks and business stays.
Urban guests often look for:
Walkability
Transport links
Dedicated workspace areas
Modern interiors
City apartments remain one of the most consistently booked holiday rental types.
8. Off Grid Living
The ultimate escape for adventure seekers
For travellers looking to disconnect from daily routines and explore remote destinations, off grid accommodation provides a truly unique experience.
These properties often operate without traditional utilities such as high speed internet, offering guests the chance to unplug and immerse themselves in nature.
Sustainable tourism continues to expand globally, supported by organisations such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
Off grid accommodation typically features:
Solar or renewable energy systems
Remote countryside locations
Minimalist design
Nature focused experiences
9. Tiny Homes
An innovative and sustainable way to stay
Tiny homes offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional holiday rentals. These compact dwellings allow guests to stay close to nature while minimising their environmental footprint.
Whether travellers are seeking security, novelty or simply a new experience, tiny homes provide a memorable and often Instagram worthy stay.
Guest appeal includes:
Space efficient design
Sustainable construction
Unique interiors
Ideal for couples or solo travellers
10. Boho Bungalows
Perfect for vintage inspired travellers
Boho bungalows offer a stylish and distinctive way for guests to enjoy their holiday. Featuring colourful décor and quirky details, these properties create a character filled and memorable experience.
With all the necessary amenities combined with creative design, boho bungalows attract travellers looking for something different from standard accommodation.
Standout features:
Vintage furnishings
Artistic styling
Comfortable but expressive interiors
Why Offering Unique Holiday Rental Types Matters
Whether you are expanding your rental portfolio or simply looking to offer something new and exciting, diversifying your accommodation type can:
Increase occupancy rates
Improve nightly pricing
Attract niche audiences
Strengthen listing visibility across booking platforms
Reduce direct price comparison with competitors
Understanding evolving traveller preferences allows you to position your property more effectively in search results and booking platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of holiday rental is most popular?
Beachfront properties, cabins, city apartments and luxury villas remain among the most searched and booked holiday rental types globally.
Are unique holiday rentals more profitable?
Distinctive properties such as tiny homes, off grid cabins and boho bungalows often face less direct competition, which can support stronger pricing and occupancy.
Is sustainable holiday accommodation growing?
Yes. Sustainable and eco focused accommodation is increasing in popularity as more travellers prioritise environmentally responsible travel choices.
Ready to Make Your Holiday Rental Stand Out?
If you are looking to expand your portfolio or maximise your property’s visibility, Travelnest can help you list and manage your holiday rental across multiple major booking platforms from one place.
When you join Travelnest, you are matched with a dedicated property expert who provides ongoing support and personalised recommendations to help you grow your income with confidence.
