How to Market Your Airbnb as a Winter Retreat

Jan 75 min read

When winter arrives, many travelers seek cozy, scenic escapes where they can unwind, enjoy seasonal activities, and make memories.

As a host, you have the opportunity to showcase your Airbnb as a perfect winter retreat, highlighting its unique winter features, cozy interiors, and proximity to seasonal attractions. In this blog post, you’ll learn how to attract winter-loving guests by updating your property’s photos, descriptions, and amenities for the colder months.

8 Ways To Market Your Airbnb In The Winter

1. Update Photos with a Cozy, Wintery Vibe

Your listing photos are the first impression for potential guests, so make sure they capture the cozy charm of your space during winter. My top tips for taking great winter photos in your Airbnb include:

I started knitting last winter during a stay at The Conscious Cabin. Sitting by the cozy fire, with twinkle lights softly glowing around me, made the experience feel like the most idyllic winter retreat. The warmth of the fire, the rhythmic click of the needles, and the serene atmosphere created a sense of peace I hadn’t realized I needed.

Highlight Cozy Interior Spaces: Take photos of inviting areas, like a living room with a fireplace, a bedroom with soft, layered bedding, or a reading nook by a window, perhaps knitting by the fire. Add blankets, pillows, and other warm accents to make these spaces feel like a refuge from the cold.
Capture Outdoor Winter Views: If your property has beautiful winter views, be sure to capture them in your photos. Snow-covered trees, frosty mornings, or a glowing sunset can add to the magic of a winter stay. If there’s a fire pit or outdoor seating area, show it with winter-friendly touches like blankets or a thermos of hot cocoa.
Update Exterior Photos to Show Winter Appeal: If it snows where your property is located, take photos of the cabin or house blanketed in snow. This gives potential guests a sense of the picturesque winter environment they’ll be stepping into.

2. Emphasize Cozy Features in Your Description

When guests are looking for a winter escape, they want to imagine a warm, welcoming place where they can relax and enjoy the season. Update your listing description to focus on features that enhance coziness including:

Highlight Winter Amenities: Mention any amenities that make winter stays comfortable, like a fireplace, heated floors, extra blankets, or a coffee or tea station. If you provide a hot tub, heated outdoor area, or a fire pit, emphasize these as perfect for chilly evenings.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere with Language: Use descriptive language to help guests imagine the experience. Words like “warm,” “snug,” “relaxing,” and “peaceful” convey the cozy vibe of a winter retreat. Phrases like “curl up by the fire with a book” or “enjoy a hot cocoa after a day in the snow” make it easy for guests to picture themselves there.
Mention Nearby Winter Activities: If your property is close to popular winter activities, like skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating, include this information in the description. Guests may be looking for a place to enjoy winter sports, so make it easy for them to see why your Airbnb is the perfect base.

3. Update Your Title for Seasonal Appeal

A small tweak to your listing’s title can make a big impact when attracting guests looking specifically for a winter stay. Consider adding a phrase that appeals to winter travelers, like:

Cozy Winter Cabin Near Ski Trails
Snowy Mountain Escape with Fireplace & Hot Tub
Charming Winter Getaway with Scenic Views
Warm Up in a Cozy Cabin with Fire Pit & Hot Cocoa Nook
Ski-In/Ski-Out Cabin with Warm Fireplace & Après-Ski Vibes
Snowy Lakeside Hideaway with Indoor Fireplace and Views
Family-Friendly Winter Haven Near Tubing & S’mores Nights
Romantic Mountain Chalet with Hot Tub & Starry Nights

These updates can help your property stand out in search results and catch the eye of guests searching for a winter escape.

4. Create a Seasonal Welcome Basket

Make a memorable first impression by greeting your winter guests with a welcome basket filled with seasonal treats and essentials. My top suggestions are:

Include Winter Goodies: Small gestures like hot cocoa packets, s.mores kit, or seasonal tea are inexpensive yet thoughtful additions to a welcome basket.
Warm Essentials: Consider adding a package of hand or feet warmers, or mini lotion bottles for dry winter skin. These thoughtful items show you’re going the extra mile to make their stay comfortable.
Local Treats or Souvenirs: If there are popular local winter treats or artisanal items (like a small jar of maple syrup or local jam), include these for a special touch.

5. Provide Winter Essentials for Guests

Guests often don’t think of packing certain items for a winter stay, so it’s helpful to provide a few essentials they may need, such as:

Snow Gear and Accessories: If your property is in a snowy area, offer things like sleds, snowshoes, or even a shovel and ice melt to keep pathways clear. Families especially appreciate snow-related gear for kids.
Cozy Extras: Extra blankets, thick throws, and even a few warm slippers or robes can go a long way in making guests feel right at home.
Firewood for the Fireplace or Fire Pit: If your property has a fireplace or fire pit, provide a stack of firewood and clear instructions for safe use. Guests often appreciate not having to source their own wood.

❄️ Winter weekends are made for cozy adventures! ⛷️✨ From family tubing fun on the slopes of Jack Frost/Big Boulder to stargazing with hot cocoa back at Pocono Bear Den, this itinerary has all the ingredients for unforgettable family memories.

6. Highlight Local Winter Attractions

If there are popular winter activities nearby, let potential guests know! Share information about:

Ski Resorts or Snow Parks: If skiing or snowboarding is popular in your area, include details about the closest resorts and how far they are from your property.
Festive Events and Markets: Many towns have holiday markets, ice skating rinks, or winter festivals. Mention any upcoming events or seasonal attractions in your listing to make your place even more appealing.
Scenic Winter Hikes and Trails: Winter hikes or snowshoeing trails can be a great draw for active guests. Provide a list of nearby trails with suggestions for all skill levels, so guests know there are options for everyone in their group.

7. Offer an Off-Season Discount

To attract guests during slower winter months, consider offering a small discount. Many travelers may be looking for a cozy getaway after the holiday rush, so a discounted rate can make your property more appealing during January and February. If you don’t want to reduce your rates, think about adding an extra perk, like an early check-in or a complimentary bottle of wine.

8. Share Winter Content on Social Media

Finally, don’t forget to share your winter-ready Airbnb on social media! Highlight the stunning winter views, cozy interiors, and nearby activities through posts and stories. Use hashtags like #WinterRetreat, #CozyCabin, or #WinterGetaway to catch the attention of winter travelers planning their next escape. Capture the magic of the season with photos of snowy landscapes, roaring fireplaces, or anything that showcases the unique winter charm of your space.

Need help showcasing the beauty of your Airbnb this winter?

If you’re an Airbnb or short term rental owner that needs help creating scroll stopping visuals for your listings, then you’re in the right place!

I’m now offering New England Retreat mini sessions designed specifically for Airbnb hosts in the New England area. These 2-3 hour sessions capture your property’s best features, from cozy nooks to snowy outdoor spaces, ensuring your listing stands out during the winter season.

Want even more content? Consider booking a larger session that includes a one-night stay for in-depth coverage and additional local content. Let’s showcase your space in a way that resonates with winter travelers and helps drive bookings.

Reach out today to schedule your session and bring your Airbnb to life this winter!