Windmill holidays
There’s certainly something romantic about the prospect of staying in a windmill: these nostalgic structures were originally dotted all over the world for milling grain, and today, their circular interiors provide the perfect spot for a relaxing break. Of course, fewer exist today than during the windmill’s 18th century heyday, but of those that do remain unchanged, there’s nothing better for couples seeking out cosy accommodation. From high in the tower you’ll be able to gaze out over your natural surroundings, and enjoy panoramic views of the starry sky by night. Blissful.
Here at Vrbo, we have hundreds of windmills worldwide, with something to suit every budget, need or desire. From those located along the shingle beaches of France, to those surrounded by the tulip fields of Holland, you have a huge number of windmill accommodation options to choose from. So why wait? Simply read on for a rundown of our favourite windmill holiday spots, and treat yourself and your loved one to that well-deserved break today.
Windmill holidays in Holland
6 bedroom authentic, cosy decorated Belt Windmill in Bergharen, Netherlands
The word windmill is almost synonymous with the Netherlands: there are over 1,000 of these beautiful structures in Holland today, with the greatest concentration of them nestled in the pretty Dutch village of Kinderdijk. A fantastic destination for windmill holidays is in the south, where you’ll find those fragrant tulip fields, as well as the famous cities of Delft, Gouda and Rotterdam. Here, you can enjoy the spoils of both countryside and coast: spend your days swimming, surfing, hiking or climbing, before returning to your pretty Dutch windmill for a cosy, contented night in.
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Windmill holidays in Germany
6 bedroom restored Dutch mill with private bathing lake in Groß Leine, Germany
One of the best spots for windmill holidays is Lower Saxony, a region nestled in the fertile north-west of Germany. A charming and traditional area, it’s characterised by lush, green hills and small historic villages, and proves particularly popular with those looking to experience Saxon culture. You can also enjoy a huge range of outdoor activities whilst in the area, from mountain biking and hiking, to fishing in sparkling lakes. Of course, if you’d rather stay by the sea, why not opt for a windmill along the Baltic Coast? You’ll enjoy unparalleled panoramic views from your historic home.
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Windmill holidays in France
1 bedroom ancient windmill in Margaux, France
Some of our finest and oldest windmills are located in France, offering an idyllic accommodation option to travellers. From 13th century mills surrounded by mint and lavender, to luxurious, modern mills furnished to the highest standard: there are lots of options available, you just have to choose where to call home for the holiday! You could stay in a 16th century windmill in L’Isle sur la Sorgue, shopping at antique markets nearby, or choose a windmill in France’s prettiest village, Lagrasse, and surround yourself with luscious vineyards. What could be better than wine tasting in a windmill for a week?
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Windmill holidays in the United Kingdom
7 bedroom windmill with heated pool
For short, romantic breaks away, renting a windmill in the United Kingdom is a great idea. You could choose a four-storey windmill, complete with traditional timber beams, in Windsor; or opt for an elegantly decorated windmill, surrounded by private grounds, in Northamptonshire. Of course, Scotland and Wales have their fair share of windmills too, but if you really fancy treating yourself, you could stay in an enormous seven-storey windmill, replete with heated pool, in Norfolk. A spectacular, grade II listed building, this is one windmill you certainly won’t want to overlook!
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Windmill holidays in the USA
6 bedroom magical home built around windmill with views of ocean in Barnstable, MA, USA
There may not be as many windmills in the USA as there are in Holland or Germany, but the scattering of traditional mills that do exist are spectacular. One of the best places in which to rent a windmill is Cape Cod, Massachusetts: famed as one of the best family holiday spots in the USA, it boasts a beautiful summer climate, sensational seafood selection and charming harbour. Nestled next to the beach in your own private windmill, you can easily spend your days swimming or surfing in the warm ocean, before taking a peaceful walk into town to enjoy the catch of the day.