The FAR Forecast: 2026 traveller demand for calm
The 2026 travel trends reports are out in droves and they’re all vying for attention, though one theme runs throughout. 2026 will see travellers delve deeper into the natural world and relish quiet calm.
Expedia notes: Holiday rental trends bring travellers closer to what they love: books, nature and each other.
According to Hilton’s global research, respondents’ number one motivation to travel for leisure in 2026 is “to rest and recharge” (56%). Top desires also include spending time in nature (37%) and improving mental health (36%).
Skyscanner comments that demand for “unique accommodation” is up 60% YOY. Respondents note they choose a hotel that “offers a complete escape from everyday life”.
Booking.com reports that 21% of travellers said they would be happy to go on holiday just to enjoy a natural sensory experience, such as the whistle of birds chirping or the smell of rain after a dreary afternoon.
“Nature has always been a sanctuary for me. It’s where I’ve hatched my greatest ideas and accomplished my finest work. Our seven treehouses at TreeDwellers are a perfect example of that,” said Tim Rees, Founder of TreeDwellers.
“Here, luxury isn’t the thread-count of the linens and the depth of the bathtub, though we’ve got that covered, it’s the space to decompress and be at one with oneself. Our guests have access to guided meditation, woodland walks and our impressive forest megaphone that amplifies the sounds of life among the trees to completely immerse guests in their surroundings. After a few quiet days with us, guests leave refreshed, revitalised and inspired.”
TreeDwellers, the collection of extraordinary treehouses hidden among ancient woodland in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, is the perfect spot for contemplation surrounded by nature.
The seven self-catering treehouses, encased in timber, copper and glass, are designed to blend in with the natural environment and look nothing like the traditional square treehouses that spring to mind.
The futuristic shapes assimilate with the impressive oak and birch trees that propel towards the sunlight and the ferns that cover the forest floor.
Guests are intrinsically connected with the wildlife that surrounds them - bask in the seasonal sunshine on the terrace and look out for the three neighbouring deer herds that share the space or watch the rain hammer the picture windows from the bedroom as the sun descends in the sky.
Plenty of walking routes depart from the doorstep with options to remain camouflaged in the countryside or head to the place to be, “Britain’s Best Pub”, The Bull in Charlbury.
Trains arrive in Charlbury from London in less than 90 minutes. https://treedwellers.co.uk/
If you’re a boutique hotel, cottage or pub owner and need some strategic advice on how to align your brand with the latest travel trends to capture the interest of your key media - and avoid the slow season slump - get in touch.
