Program Background and Highlights 

Today, Vrbo® announced the 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year, a collection of standout homes recognized for exceptional guest reviews, trusted hosts, and sought-after amenities. The list features more than 50 properties across Canada and internationally, including family‑friendly homes, large group getaways, luxury retreats, unique architectural escapes, and nature‑forward destinations. 

Now in its fifth year, the annual list recognizes properties that exemplify exceptional quality, reliability, and Vrbo’s high standards for stays travellers can trust. In fact, several of the homes have earned more than 100 perfect 10/10 guest ratings, reflecting the positive experiences guests can expect every time they book a Vrbo. 

The 2026 Canadian homes span popular leisure destinations, including Banff, Alberta; Port Medway, Nova Scotia; St. Peter’s Harbour, Prince Edwards Island; and Whistler, British Columbia. The broader global collection also features standout properties across the U.S., Mexico, England, and Germany. 

Travellers can explore previous years’ standout homes and stay updated on future collections by visiting Vrbo’s Vacation Rentals of the Year hub. 

CA 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year  

• Banff, Alberta — “Rustic Chic Banff Mountain Home” is located two blocks from Banff Avenue and features Mount Rundle views, a spacious deck and a peaceful backyard setting. This Premier Host–managed riverfront home includes Tempur-Pedic beds, a fully equipped kitchen and has earned more than 60 perfect 10/10 guest reviews. 

• Fernie, British Columbia — “Fernie Mountain House” is a ski-in/ski-out retreat designed for group stays, with a seven-bedroom, seven-bath layout and floor-to-ceiling mountain views. This Premier Host property features a Nordic-inspired spa with a sauna, cold plunge and outdoor hot tub and supports the local community with donations from every booking. 

• Invermere, British Columbia — “The Copper Point Cabin”is a five-bedroom mountain home with Rocky Mountain views, a game room and a pool table. Located minutes from Copper Point Golf Club and downtown Invermere, this family-friendly property has earned more than 50 perfect guest reviews. 

• Lac-Supérieur, Quebec — “Bright Chalet” is located in the Laurentians near Mont Tremblant and features an outdoor hot tub, indoor sauna and access to Club de la Pointe on Lake Supérieur. Guests can enjoy year-round amenities including a heated pool, water activities, and winter recreation. 

• Port Medway, Nova Scotia — “Atlantic Pearl” is a remodeled Cape Cod–style oceanfront home overlooking Ragged Harbour, featuring a screened-in porch with a hot tub and a fully equipped kitchen and dining area for group stays. Located steps from a sandy beach, the property is a short drive to Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. 

• St. Peter’s Harbour, Prince Edward Island — “Sea Dunes Beach House” is one of only three homes built directly in the dunes of St. Peter’s Harbour Beach, accommodating up to 14 guests across a main house and carriage house. This Premier Host property features wraparound decks with ocean views and has earned more than 30 perfect 10/10 guest reviews. 

• Utterson, Ontario — “Sutton Lakehouse” is a lakeside retreat on Three Mile Lake in Muskoka featuring a private dock, outdoor dining and a fire pit. This Premier Host property is pet-friendly and offers year-round access to swimming, paddling and waterfront activities. 

• Whistler, British Columbia — “Alpine Chalet” is a ski-in/ski-out mountain home featuring two primary suites with private decks and fireplaces, along with a hot tub, heated outdoor pool and dedicated entertainment spaces. Located near Whistler’s slopes, the property offers access to year-round mountain activities. 

International 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year  

This year’s global honourees also include exceptional homes across the U.S., Mexico, England, Germany, Canada, France, Australia, and New Zealand, ranging from beachfront villas and lakefront escapes to countryside retreats, architectural standouts, and nature forward stays near coastlines, forests, and iconic outdoor attractions. See the full list of international homes here. 

What Vrbo Says About This Year’s Collection 

“The Vacation Rentals of the Year showcase the finest vacation rentals on Vrbo. New this year, properties on the list have earned the ‘Loved by Guests’ badge — a recognition reserved only for the top 10% of homes in a destination based on real guest reviews,” said Larry Plawsky, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Vrbo. “This list should inspire travellers to take their next group getaway and demonstrates how easy it is to find a trusted, high-quality vacation rental every time they plan a trip.” 

“This year’s list reflects just how far traveller expectations have evolved and how our partners continue to rise to the occasion,” said Tim Rosolio, Vice President of Vacation Rental Partnerships at Vrbo. “From unique design and standout amenities to the small, thoughtful touches that build trust, these homes deliver the kind of exceptional experiences that today’s travelers don’t just appreciate, they expect. We’re proud to celebrate hosts who are setting a new standard for quality and helping shape the future of vacation rentals.” 

Vrbo’s Vacation Rental of the Year Selection Criteria  

• Loved by Guests: Homes recognized within the top 10% of properties in a destination based on verified guest reviews  

• Premier Host Quality: Properties managed by reliable hosts with a proven record of great hospitality, including a 99% booking acceptance rate and zero host cancellations 

• Exceptional Ratings & Reviews: More than 10 exceptional guest ratings and verified positive reviews 

• Desirable Locations: Properties in highly searched leisure — often steps from oceans, lakes, or mountains 

• Great for Groups: Spacious layouts with private pools, hot tubs, large kitchens, game rooms, and multiple gathering areas ideal for families and multi‑generational groups 

• Distinctive “Wow” Factor: Properties offering memorable features or standout design 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Vrbo’s Vacation Rentals of the Year? 

Vacation Rentals of the Year is Vrbo’s annual list highlighting top-rated vacation homes known for exceptional reviews, reliable hosts, and amenities that make them ideal for families, groups, and memorable getaways. 

What’s the difference between Premier Host and Loved by Guests? 

• Premier Host: Highlights hosts with a strong record of reliability, including: 
  • Consistently high booking acceptance rates 
  • No host‑initiated cancellations 
  • 9.2 or above overall guest rating 

• Loved by Guests: Recognizes homes that deliver exceptional guest experiences, based on: 
  • Ranking in the top 10% of properties within their destination 
  • 9.4 or above overall guest rating. 

How are the homes selected? 

Popular features include private pools, hot tubs, game rooms, spacious kitchens, outdoor living spaces, direct beach or lake access, mountain or ski proximity, and unique architectural elements. 

Where are the 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year located? 

The 2026 list includes standout homes across Canada in destination such as Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, along with international homes across the U.S., Mexico, England, Germany, France, Australia, and New Zealand.  

The 2026 list includes standout homes across Canada and internationally. 

Canada highlights: 

• Alberta 
• British Columbia 

• Quebec 

• Nova Scotia 

• Prince Edwards Island 

• Ontario 

International highlights: 

• United States 

• Mexico 

• England 

• Germany 

• Canada 

• France 

• Australia 
• New Zealand 

Are these homes good for family or group travel? 

Yes. Many homes offer multibedroom layouts, multiple gathering spaces and amenities ideal for families, multigenerational trips, and group getaways. 

How can travelers book these homes? 

All Vacation Rentals of the Year properties can be viewed and booked directly on Vrbo. See the full list here.