The world of sharing—cars, bikes, transit, couches, homes—definitely has its perks. These days, community-driven hospitality companies like Airbnb can make it can be a lot easier to stay in beautiful locations around the world. Renting out somebody else’s house or apartment for a weekend can be cozier than a hotel experience, but some listings—like these fairytale cottages—are cool enough for you to plan your next vacation around the accommodations rather than the region.
Rest your head in one of these fairytale cottages around the world
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Located in Cornwall, staying in this tiny and unique cottage is said to be a truly magical experience. According to reviews, many people arrive and the cabin is completely lit up with a backdrop of sea and countryside views. Despite it's small size, the "Jack Sparrow House" is equipped with basic bathroom and kitchen facilities, and is fully insulated for winter adventures. A quiet fishing village is just a short distance away in one direction, while a beach can be found in the other. More info: www.airbnb.ca

This cottage on Canada's West Coast is part storybook, part hobbit material. The natural building is a cob cottage, meaning it is made of a combination of water, dirt, straw, earth, and clay. The one-bedroom rental's rounded rooftops give it a woodsy mushroom-shaped appeal. A cobblestone driveway, railings made of thick branches, and surrounding gardens with nearby herds of sheep don't exactly detract from the fairytale vibe, either. More info: www.airbnb.ca

This life-sized gingerbread house would be perfect for a winter holiday retreat or a fairy tale birthday adventure. Picked right from the pages of your favourite storybook, the house (made of Earth, not baked goods) even features multi-coloured stained-glass windows. The cottage is part of the eclectic Isis Oasis Retreat Center, which is said to have treasures around every corner, including your neighbour the Hobbit hut, a hot tub, a wood-fired oven, and nearby exotic animals. More info: www.airbnb.ca

If you couldn't tell by the multi-coloured paint job, this listing is serious about fairytale status, going by the name "Storybook House Guest Studio." This listing is a detached guest suite rental rather than a whole house, so you have hosts (including a dog, Daisy), and the same kitchen amenities as a hotel room (mini fridge, toaster, coffee maker). The beach is nearby and the hosts seem very open to a homey, quiet visit. More info: www.airbnb.ca

This cabin in California is the most authentic fairytale experience in terms of historical accuracy. The two-story cabin is nestled deep in the Northern California woods, about 30 minutes away from some of the best Redwood hikes in the country and 45 minutes from the nearest grocery store. It sits on 160 acres of forested land that includes other cabins, organic gardens, and farm animals. The "Witch's Hut," as it's called, has a full outdoor kitchen and wood-fired sauna. More info: www.airbnb.ca

If you didn't know whether or not you'd like to live in a silo, you should now. This beautiful northern cottage sits high like a tree-house, offering pond and forest views. The grounds look immaculate, with a 2-acre forested walking path, gardens, and lily ponds. The lovely and serene environment is perfect for relaxing, but could also be a casual spot to hang out between spending your time swimming, hiking, or kayaking. More info: www.airbnb.ca

This three-storey Victorian house in the trees is about as rustic-fairytale princess as it gets. The house has been featured New York real estate magazines, and is a true getaway just two hours outside of New York City. Nearly all historic detail is intact, with decor that includes cathedral ceilings, a claw bathtub, French mirrors, and simple, bohemian decor. The front porch overlooks the creek and is steps away from a nearby farmer's market. More info: www.airbnb.ca
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