I was scrolling through Instagram when I came across a meme that ultimately inspired this story. The meme featured a picture of the iconic Rosehill Cottage from the movie The Holiday, accompanied by this text: “Please remember, Christmas isn’t about expensive gifts. It’s about going to stay in a little English cottage and falling in love with Jude Law.” Ain’t that the truth.
No really, all jokes aside, I can’t think of anything dreamier than a last-minute escape to the snowy town of Surrey. Unfortunately, watching this Nancy Meyers masterpiece doesn’t exactly transport you to the cozy little home (even if you watch the movie 100 times—I’ve tried.) Desperate for a trip somewhere just as idyllic, I started researching various hotels, Airbnbs, and bed and breakfasts that I hoped would offer a similar experience. Now, I’m adding all of these dream-worthy winter vacations to my own bucket list.
While the cottage we all know and love from The Holiday doesn’t actually exist, here are a handful of similar places where you can live out your own Amanda Woods-inspired getaway.
1. Beach Plum Farm Cottages in Cape May, New Jersey
Located just outside major East Coast cities (a quick flight or drive from New York), this charming beach town will prompt you to leave your laptop at home, turn off your phone, and ditch your alarm clock. Upon arrival, you’ll want to fully immerse yourself in the calming culture of Cape May. The picturesque property features six private cottages, and I personally have stayed in and loved the Plum Barn. Dating back to the 1850s, this cottage has so much character, including a screened-in porch, an indoor fireplace, a retro-style fridge, and quaint decor. One of my favorite touches about this property is that you can wake up each morning to fresh apple cider doughnuts and hot coffee delivered to your porch.
2. Banff Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast in Alberta, Canada
Simply put, Canada is a must-visit during the wintertime. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, icy lakes, and an abundance of snow activities, Banff Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast makes for a perfectly cozy and memorable stay. Located within walking distance of Banff Avenue, which is lined with a variety of restaurants, karaoke bars, and retail shops, this classic B&B sets the tone for a completely customized getaway. Back at the lodge, experience peak privacy and all the modern amenities needed for creating your own home away from home.
3. The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado
If there’s one U.S. destination that reminds me of Rosehill Cottage the most, it’s The Broadmoor. This Colorado mountain property might be grand, but spending a night or two in one of the guest cottages is all you need to fully recharge. Every cottage feels wildly private and luxe, and they have a unique charm that’s hard to find elsewhere (especially when it’s snowing.) When hunkering down in the winter, the flickering fireplaces are perfect to cuddle up near with a good book and warm beverage. Plus, during the holiday season, the entire grounds are fully decked out with twinkling lights and cheerful decor.
4. Sandhill Cabin in Kohler, Wisconsin
Part of Destination Kohler just north of Milwaukee, the Sandhill Cabin is a cozy, three-level space that features reclaimed timber walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a wrap-around porch with 360-degree views of the surrounding wilderness. The comforts of the home also include a chef-inspired kitchen, a stone fireplace, and a luxurious clawfoot tub. If your goal is to kick back in a space that feels secluded and unique, this is the place for you.
5. The Water Wheel in Asheville, North Carolina
If you want an isolated cabin near a cute town with plenty to do, the Water Wheel Cottage is for you. Located just outside of Asheville, this A-frame lodge certainly is small, but it’s not lacking in charm. When you’re not out exploring town, lounge by the firepits (with a glass of red wine in hand) and take in the amazing mountain views from the comfort of an Adirondack chair. You can also bask in the hot tub or cedar sauna after a day exploring the mountains—the perfect way to reset just before the New Year.
6. Cruickshanks Boutique B&B in Whiting Bay, Scotland
There’s something about this Scottish island that just screams “you’re about to fall in love with Jude Law’s doppelgänger” or maybe I’ve just watched one too many rom-coms. Either way, this is one of the cutest B&Bs I came across during my research. Once I read that the property includes a library complete with a log-burning stove, I was hooked. Each room on the boutique property is filled with so much character, and the guest reviews are glowing. I can’t think of a better way to replicate the Amanda Woods experience than by nestling into a bed and breakfast this holiday season.
7. Cal-a-Vie in San Diego, California
Dreaming of a European getaway but don’t want to hassle with international travel this season? Head to San Diego and stay in the Mediterranean-style villas at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa. This property is a wellness lover’s dream complete with fitness classes, guided meditations, nutritious gourmet cuisine, and relaxing spa treatments. A stay here is sure to ease any lingering stress from the hectic holiday season and help you enter 2024 as a whole new you. Not to mention, each villa features very Nancy Meyers-esque decor.
8. Chalet Sulegg in Wengen, Switzerland
Whether you’re a pro on the slopes or you’re more about the après-ski lifestyle, this Swiss chalet has everything you could want from a cold-weather getaway. For the best views of the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley, enjoy your morning coffee on the rental’s wrap-around balcony. Bonus: This property is located in the vehicle-free town of Wengen, adding to the small-town charm as seen in The Holiday (no need to worry about driving on the wrong side of the road like Cameron Diaz’s character!).
