The word “sanctuary” is exactly on the money for this secluded ranch-style home in the Arizona desert. Beyond the kidney-shaped infinity pool and hot tub, the kids can work out their energy practicing their swing on the 9-hole putting green on the property, or getting competitive at the bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoe stations. There’s even an outdoor kitchen and bar with a gas grill (plus a chef available upon request) if BBQ’s on the menu. Inside, the high vaulted ceilings in the open living room will keep you humble, while the the separate media room with three TVs will help any sports fanatics in the group stay completely immersed in the game. When you muster the strength to peel yourself away from your temporary home, plenty more adventures await at any of the nearby hiking and mountain biking trails, wine and craft beer hops, and even sunrise and sunset hot air balloon rides.
The Midnight Sun House in Joshua Tree, California
courtesy of AirBNB
Nature meets nurture in this two bedroom, sepia-toned oasis in Joshua Tree, where the sliding doors to the terrace open onto stark views of the desert. The pool will certainly be your North Star on the stay since the home is all about enjoying the wilderness and the connection to the outdoors. FYI: It can be heated for an additional fee of 150 bones, if the desert winds prove too chill at night. Inside, Southwestern-style interiors (complete with woven wall hangings, blankets, and rugs) play off the pristine white walls and black accents. It’s all a calming place to wind down, take a dip, and enjoy a hike after a long Q3 spent absolutely grinding.
Fantastic House with Indoor Pool in Placerville, California
courtesy of AirBNB
courtesy of AirBNB
Even if sun’s not in the forecast, there’s still an abode with an indoor pool, plus some LED lights and a fountain, that’ll let you enjoy year-round Marco Polo. This five-bedroom Placerville pad set on five acres of land is an ideal place for quality time with the homies for a bachelor party, since there’s a game room featuring ping pong and pool, plus a basement with ski ball and a large TV for gaming and movies (the works!). In the cooler months, you don’t even need to leave the premises to enjoy a weekend getaway. But if you do venture off the property, 12 miles of hiking trails await you just 15 minutes away at Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park. Or, if you’re hankering for a cider doughnut and some fresh air, take the scenic route to Apple Hill for some apple picking.
Luxury Oregon Wine Country Retreat in Salem, Oregon
courtesy of AirBNB
courtesy of AirBNB
Napa, who? Just one hour outside of Portland, you can rent this beautiful home set on a 30-acre estate in the middle of the Anahata vineyard, blessed with a very respectably-sized pool. The only thing stopping you from drinking a glass of red in the 3-foot section is a wine opener, so spend the days lounging by the pool surrounded by views of Van Duzer Corridor and Temperance Hill. The interiors of the home are not so shabby either, with views from the main bedroom overlooking the serene hills and farmland in the area. If you’re hosting a large group, do your best Ina Garten impression in the chef’s kitchen to prep a fancy meal around the eight-person dining table.
Gorgeous Getaway in Isle of Palms, South Carolina
courtesy of AirBNB
courtesy of AirBNB
If quiet and seaside are your top choices for a “tail end of summer” retreat, check out this airy five-bedroom home located just a block from the beach and a short walk from downtown Isle of Palms. After a day on the beach or gorging on fried food like the locals (which you can get to using the golf cart or bikes provided on property), crack open a beer and head to the rooftop patio to watch the sunset over the water. Days spent at home are just as good here as traipsing out, between the private swimming pool, four very Southern patios on different levels of the house, and large interior spaces swathed in minimal, modern furnishings.
Luxury Pool House in New Orleans, Louisiana
courtesy of AirBNB