There’s something special about spending the holidays somewhere you can settle in. Long breakfasts, countryside walks, fireside afternoons, and a beautiful table to gather around at the end of the day.
From an English country-house Christmas to a mountain escape in the Canadian Rockies, these four luxury hotels offer different ways to spend the season. Whether you’re planning a trip for two or gathering your favorite people, each has a setting worth settling into.
Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay, France
A countryside escape near Paris
Set in the French countryside roughly an hour from Paris, Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay brings together historic architecture, richly layered interiors, and the easy rhythm of a country retreat. The former Cistercian abbey makes a lovely countryside addition to a few days in the city, or a destination in its own right.
The sprawling estate brings together the perks of a family-friendly camp with the luxury of a five-star resort. Its amenities include affable farm animals and bikes to ride around the lake (where you’ll find the floating padel courts). There’s an elegant French restaurant serving seasonal fare and afternoon tea in a dining hall that looks as if it were plucked from Hogwarts.
For a getaway with friends or extended family, the estate’s private pavilions offer shared living spaces alongside access to the wider property.
Best for: A countryside escape with striking interiors, good food, and plenty to explore.
Estelle Manor, England
An English country-house holiday in Oxfordshire
If London is on your 2026 holiday sights, you'll want to add Estelle Manor to the itinerary. is the kind of place that invites you to slow down. Set in Oxfordshire, the property is a Jacobean-revival country home-turned-hotel with country-house interiors, woodland surroundings, and thoughtful dining.
During the Christmas season, Estelle Manor becomes a true storybook, winter wonderland, with 108 guest accommodations all adorned with vintage furniture and warm lights. The festive dining and decorated gathering spaces bring a special sense of occasion to the stay.
For those seeking a moment of wellness, the manor features a 32,292-square-foot Roman-inspired spa. And if you prefer the great outdoors, there are plenty of activities such as a tour of the surrounding woodlands.
Best for: A stylish country-house holiday with time for dining, woodland walks, and the spa.
Twin Farms, Vermont
An intimate New England winter retreat
Twin Farms offers a classic New England getaway set in gorgeous Vermont with distinctive cottages and suites, and an all-inclusive approach that lets you settle into the stay.
The proximity to snowy slopes and forestland makes it great for skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts, but there is truly something for everyone. Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride, or for a calmer afternoon, try your hand at puzzles or watercoloring.
On Christmas evening, you can enjoy cocktails and canapés followed by a multi-course holiday meal. And for an ultra-cozy stay, Citizens Row can book you one of the Farmhouse Suites, all of which feature a double-sided gas fireplace that warms both the living room and bedroom.
Best for: A quiet, food-focused escape for couples or a small group.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada
A winter escape in the Canadian Rockies
For a mountain winter holiday, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a spectacular setting beside the lake, with views toward Victoria Glacier and the surrounding Rockies.
Depending on conditions, days can include lake skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Nearby downhill skiing adds another option for those who want to spend more time on the slopes.
The festive season brings holiday dining and seasonal programming, while the scenery gives even a quiet afternoon indoors a sense of occasion.
Best for: Mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and a lively resort atmosphere.
Planning Your Winter Holiday
The right winter getaway starts with how you want to spend your days: on the slopes, exploring the countryside, or lingering over lunch before an afternoon at the spa.
Citizens Row can help you find the right fit and thoughtfully arrange the details. Get in touch to start planning your winter getaway.
