Boo! Spooky season has arrived, and it’s time to immerse ourselves in the supernatural ambiance. Take a look at these five authentic haunted houses that will send shivers down your spine. Leave behind the usual pumpkins, scary movies, tricks, and treats, and venture into the realm of genuine chills awaiting you at these spine-chilling accommodations.
- Witness the Headless Horseman at a Loch Awe Log Cabin Loch Cabin 1645341ha
Nestled in Glen Mhor, this charming log cabin serves as an ideal holiday retreat for exploring the enchanting Scottish Highlands and the West Coast. However, be warned that on Halloween night, if you dare to glance out the window, you might catch a glimpse of the headless apparition of Ewan Maclaines, racing wildly on horseback across the fields.
Accommodates 8 guests
Starting from $155 per night
- Chill with King Karl I in the Cotswolds Cotswolds Castle 471774
Immerse yourself in regal splendor at this meticulously restored castle in the Cotswolds. Formerly the residence of King Karl I during the Siege of Gloucester in 1643, the castle continues to captivate travelers. Rumor has it that the ghost of the monarch occasionally returns to its historic halls, either to startle guests or enjoy a leisurely swim in the pool.
Accommodates 26 guests
Starting from $2,532 per night
- Set Sail to a Pirate’s Haunt Raynor House
Inspired by the legendary Captain George Raynor, who once roamed Kiawah Island in the 17th century, the Raynor House offers a delightful retreat to bask in the island’s mystical allure. Captain Raynor anchored his ships here before embarking on daring plundering adventures along the Carolina Coast. Now it’s your chance to seize precious holiday moments while exploring this captivating abode.
Sleeps 10 guests
Starting from $745 per night
- Engage in a Spirited Conversation with a Forest Ghost Shamrock House
Tucked away in Rocky Bottom, the Shamrock House is a cozy log cabin steeped in the rich history of North Carolina. It claims the distinction of being the first local house to harness electricity through a waterwheel. Once a haven for weary travelers and wanderers seeking respite, it continues to extend its warm embrace. Legend has it that you may hear the gentle weeping of a ghostly guest named Nancy at night. Fear not, for she is but a friendly spirit with a trove of secrets to share.
Sleeps 21 guests
Starting from $378 per night
- Journey to Medieval Times with Her Ladyship Lady Maxwell Room, Buittle Castle
Transport yourself back to the 13th century with a stay in the Lady Maxwell room, an immaculately preserved chamber that evokes the spirit of medieval grandeur. Originally part of Buittle Castle, this room offers an immersive experience reminiscent of its noble past. Once home to Lady Dervorguilla of Galloway and the Balliol Dynasty, you might sense the lingering presence of their high-society spirits as they wander the halls or elegantly lounge in the surrounding gardens.
Accommodates 2 guests
Starting from $143 per night
Experience the Magic of Winter: 5 Natural Hot Springs for Cool Escapes
Don’t let the winter chill get you down! Dive into our guide featuring North America’s top five geothermal hot springs, and add a touch of natural wonder to your family’s winter adventures. Imagine immersing yourself in these delightfully warm waters while surrounded by the snowy beauty of the season.
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, CO
Just minutes away from downtown Steamboat Springs, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is the perfect destination for a group outing after an action-packed day on the slopes. Let your family indulge in the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters, a well-deserved treat for relaxation during your winter getaway.
Discover the geothermal oasis in the mountains >
- Chena Hot Springs in Fairbanks, AK
At Chena Hot Springs, you’ll enjoy a two-in-one experience. Soak in the warm, mineral-packed waters while marveling at the awe-inspiring Northern Lights dancing across the sky. As you venture along Chena Hot Springs Road, you’ll be captivated by the scenic surroundings, including an ice museum and breathtaking views of the aurora borealis.
Unwind under the starry night sky >
- Hot Springs National Park
For over a century, Hot Springs National Park has been a haven for Americans seeking the healing powers of its geothermal pools. Often referred to as “America’s spa,” this charming town has flourished around the magical mineral waters of Hot Springs Mountain. Families seeking a soothing winter activity can enjoy the pools and even drink the water straight from the springs!
Let the rustic healing begin >
- Umpqua Hot Springs
Calling all adventure enthusiasts! If you’re a hardcore hiker or a winter warrior, the mineral-rich pools nestled in the central Cascade range are well worth the journey. Located approximately two miles down the main forest road, these geothermal pools, situated above Oregon’s North Umpqua River, offer a blissful retreat amidst snowy landscapes.
Warm up alongside fellow winter adventurers >
- Radium Hot Springs – temporarily closed
If you’re seeking the ultimate relaxation package, look no further than Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park, British Columbia. This vast family-friendly hot pool and popular day spa provide a rejuvenating escape. Embrace the tranquility of this Canadian paradise, known for its odorless and colorless geothermal springs, set against the backdrop of a charming village.
Indulge in a blissful winter getaway >
Note: Please check the availability and operating hours of the hot springs before planning your visit, as some locations may have temporary closures or limited access.
History:
The origins of Vrbo trace back to 1995 when David Clouse, a retired teacher from Aurora, Colorado, created the website with the intention of renting out his condo at Breckenridge Ski Resort. It quickly gained popularity among homeowners looking to list their properties for short-term rentals. By 2006, Vrbo boasted over 65,000 rental listings, with an impressive growth rate of adding 100 new listings per day. Initially, Vrbo operated on a subscription-based model, where homeowners paid an annual fee to list their properties on the platform. In 2006, the company was acquired by HomeAway. Later, in 2015, Expedia Group acquired HomeAway, along with Vrbo. In March 2019, Vrbo underwent a rebranding, adopting the name “Vrbo” along with a new logo, capitalization, and pronunciation. This rebranding was followed by the consolidation of the HomeAway and Vrbo websites under the single brand name Vrbo in May 2019.
Criticism: Strict refund policy during the COVID-19 pandemic:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vrbo faced criticism for not enforcing a mandatory refund policy for travelers affected by lockdowns. Unlike other platforms like Airbnb and Tripadvisor, which required hosts to offer full refunds, Vrbo left it to the discretion of hosts and guests to negotiate refunds. This approach drew backlash on Twitter, with calls for a boycott of Vrbo. Additionally, Vrbo prohibited hosts from downplaying the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic during refund negotiations with guests.
Collaboration with Chrissy Teigen:
Vrbo faced backlash in May 2021 for featuring a promotional video with Chrissy Teigen and her husband, John Legend, in which they expressed their satisfaction with a vacation rental booked through Vrbo. This drew criticism due to previous allegations of cyberbullying against Teigen by Courtney Stodden and others.
Lack of guarantee support:
Vrbo has faced allegations of not upholding its “book with confidence” guarantee. In one instance, a customer claimed to have lost £6,000 after the property owner of a Vrbo rental property in Ibiza disappeared.
Hidden cameras in property bedrooms:
Several lawsuits have been filed against Vrbo after guests discovered hidden cameras in private areas of rental properties booked through the platform, including bedrooms. Law enforcement authorities have also found images of undressed guests on the computers of certain homeowners.
Non-compliance with rental laws:
In March 2022, Vrbo was sued by the city of Los Angeles for non-compliance with rental laws. The city accused Vrbo of allowing hosts to profit from the platform without registering under the city’s short-term rental ordinance, which was a violation of the rules. The City Attorney claimed that nearly 29% of bookings made in a recent 30-day period appeared to be in violation of the city’s regulations.
