Why should I stay in a cottage?

A cottage serves as your home away from home, and many of these accommodations are reasonably priced. If you opt to stay in a cottage in a remote destination, you're likely to enjoy the perk of being surrounded by beautiful scenery, whether it's on a beach or hidden in the woods.

If you're travelling with family or friends, a cottage is an ideal pick as it will give you the privacy and space you need, as well as the option to cook your own meals.

Where do you find cottages?

You'll usually find cottages among natural scenery, such as by a lake, near a beach, in the mountains, or even inside national parks. Many resorts offer a wide range of accommodations, including cottages. You're likely to find cottages near the water, such as lakes and oceans, in countries like Canada (think Cape Breton Island) and the US (think Tahoe). In Europe, you'll often find cottages in the countryside, or even in towns and cities, especially in the UK.

How much does it cost to stay in a cottage?

Cottages are a terrific lodging choice if you're travelling as a group. Simple, cozy cottages tend to be affordable, especially those in low-key resorts. Those who have money to spare can look up luxury cottages that come with extra services and facilities, such as hot tubs, private pools, or gardens, as well as tour assistance and housekeeping.

Search for a cottage

It's easy to search for a cottage nearby with Expedia. All you need to do is indicate where you intend to stay, and filter the search results. The map function also helps you spot places where you're likely to find the right cottage to suit your budget and your needs.

How to book a cottage

It's always a good idea to book your cottage in advance, as this means you can take your pick from a wide range of properties. Whether you're thinking of getting a private rental or booking a cottage in a resort, you can do your search on Expedia in the same manner you'd search for a standard hotel. If you're travelling far, you can check out the flight and accommodation packages available, as you're likely to find a great deal on the site.

What do cottages offer?

Cottages range from no-frills and rustic to sleek and plush. Most feature kitchens, and living and dining spaces, and some also have terraces or patios where guests can enjoy wonderful views. There are cottages with fireplaces, which makes them ideal for a winter stay. Posh cottages enjoy premium spots on the beach or inside national parks, and come with plush amenities like hot tubs. When you book a cottage, it generally means that you're renting the whole property, but there are a few cottages where guests can book single rooms.

What's the difference between a cottage and a lodge?

Some people tend to confuse cottages for lodges. While both types of accommodations often share the same natural setting and architectural design, there are considerable differences in the spaces and services they offer.

Most cottages are self-contained, and offer living areas and kitchens. Lodges, on the other hand, have more in common with hotels in that they usually offer rooms or suites, along with shared facilities like restaurants and lounges. If you can't decide on which type of lodging is better, just remember that cottages are a better option if you'd like to enjoy your vacation in privacy and would like to cook your own meals.