Hygge is a Danish word that has captured the global imagination. Though there is no exact English word equivalent, “cozy” comes close. Hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) captures a sense of warmth and comfort and hominess that feeds a feeling of contentment and well being.
As omicron surges this month and much of the US is in the chill of winter, hygge is a good concept to consider. Spending more time at home? Why not make it hygge, with a fire, flowers, candles, soft blankets and pillows, fuzzy socks, books, and a hot cup of tea or coffee (in a pottery mug, of course)? Hygge. You get the idea.
When we find properties for UnTours in Europe, we like to look for apartments that have a little character and coziness too. We want our guests to feel at home in Europe and have a cozy place to return to after a day of sightseeing.
So as you feather your own nest for winter, here is some hygge inspiration from the UnTours apartment lineup.
Padraig
Kenmare, Ireland (the Country Kerry UnTour)
I love this apartment for the sunlight that pours in the window, the warmth of the wood throughout it, and that fireplace! Of course what you can’t see are the eggs that guests can collect from the chickens out front, nor the warmth of your host here.
Kuenzler 1
Hohfluh, Switzerland (the Swiss Heartland UnTour)
This is a perfectly traditional Swiss chalet, complete with wood interior, a cozy eat-in kitchen, a lovely garden, and fabulous views of the Wetterhorn mountain group. Set in a remote and picturesque Swiss village, it is adorable inside and out.
Hermann House
Pernes-les-Fontaines, France (the Provence UnTour)
The guest house is lovely outside and in. When you are not relaxing in the garden, you can enjoy cooking in the tiled kitchen or sink into a comfortable couch. There is a fireplace hearth, and the owners have included lots of plants, pottery, and dried flowers to add a homey charm to the interior.
Old Rhine
Leiden, Holland (the Dutch UnTour)
The Dutch have mastered coziness, as anyone who has lingered in a brown cafe can attest to. Our Old Rhine apartments capture some of that sensibility, with muted palettes, good lighting, wooden floors and beamed ceilings, and soft, comfortable lounge furniture. It’s a vibe, for sure.
Pardal
Sintra, Portugal (the Sintra UnTour)
Decorated with natural materials throughout, with exposed stone walls and warm lighting, the Pardal is a welcoming home. The comfortable furniture, wood, and wicker are super cozy, and the private hammock outside might just be the best reason to stay here.
The Riverbend Cottages
Stirlingshire, Scotland (the Central Scotland UnTour)
On a working farm in central Scotland, these cottages offer views of the countryside from all angles, including through big concertina doors. The cozy bedroom decor and comfortable living rooms are welcoming, but the kitchens in these homes might tempt you to bake.
Bettina/Bianca
Bavaria, Germany (the German Castle UnTour)
Want to stay in a medieval castle in Bavaria, hosted by a baron and baroness? You may be thinking of cold stone and drafty austerity, but think again! The Bettina offers a fine old-world twist on hygge, with antiques, textiles, tapestry, and rugs to warm you. It’s a regal sort of coziness.
LC Salvia
Montalcino, Italy (the Tuscany UnTour)
A farm stay in Tuscany can be a relaxing affair, especially in a cozy farmhouse apartment like these. With terracotta floors, beamed ceilings, and a mix of family heirlooms and comfy couches, the LC apartments offer an Italian take on hygge. Rest in front of the first with a glass of the house wine (Brunello, made on site), and we think you’ll agree.
Bluemli
Spiez, Switzerland (the Swiss Oberland UnTour)
This apartment combines traditional style with a modern flair. It has a comfortable living room with lots of comfy places to lounge, warm decorator touches, and beautiful views of lake Thun. The garden is lovely too, with excellent lounge furniture, a perfect retreat.
Consider one of these cozy home-away-from-homes for your next vacation in Europe. And if you are hunkering down at home this winter, make some tea, light a fire, and tune into Zoom for a little bit of Europe in your living room. Check out our live virtual events and other UnTours at Home options.