The cottagecore aesthetic—which celebrates simple living, vintage style, and an idealized return to rural life—has taken off on social media as of late, and given how tumultuous times are, there’s good reason for this embrace of nostalgic living. Thankfully, there’s a way to embrace this idealized way of life and integrate it into autumnal travel, especially here in the West. At these carefully curated spaces, antique furnishings meet modern luxury, and Victorian-style gardens combine with California landscaping, giving a real sense of serenity. Here are some of our favorites.
Photo courtesy of Overshine Collective
Casa Comunita, Sonoma
At this new five-cottage property in Sonoma, the Overshine Collective has made a unique respite for folks exploring wine country. Set amongst oak trees and blackberry brambles, the quaint property is just a couple minutes from town but feels a world away. Laze in the hammock while enjoying a refreshing gin and tonic, or curl up with a coffee and a novel in the bay window while the gravity furnace fire crackles away. While there’s undoubtedly plenty of great spots to eat in Sonoma, the breakfast at Casa Comunita is top-tier, with seasonal dishes like quiche and root veggie hash being prepared daily by their in-house chef. Throw some vinyl on the record player and enjoy some sparkling pet nat to make it a brunch like no other.
Courtesy of Palisociety
Le Petit Pali, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Designed by Palisociety founders Avi Brosh and Kirsten Leigh Pratt, Le Petit Pali represents their vision of a European-inspired bed-and-breakfast experience tailored specifically for the California coast. The husband-and-wife team spent two years personally selecting every detail—from curated playlists to bunny-ear chairs—creating an intimate collection of diminutive sister properties that evoke the charm of small continental inns. Sweet little cottagecore touches include daily complimentary cookie delivery, an English breakfast with a California twist (think local jams and craft coffee), and playful design elements featuring whimsical animal motifs throughout. The communal areas are the perfect spot to cozy up with a glass of wine during their complimentary happy hour, read a novel, and unwind.
Courtesy of San Ysidro Ranch
San Ysidro Ranch, Montecito
This historic property is set on what was originally a Franciscan mission farm dating back to 1893. But it’s more famously been a hideaway for the rich and famous, with its romantic bungalow-style cottages that boast luxurious appointments that honor the ranch’s layered history. Each one of the 38 individually decorated cottages features hand-selected antiques and artwork from around the globe, stone fireplaces, and private patios with outdoor hot tubs, all set amid 550 acres that includes lush rose gardens and aromatic lemon groves. The citrus makes its way into the house-baked cookies you’ll receive upon arrival, as well as into dishes on their exquisite fine dining menu.
Matthew Millman
The Madrona Manor, Healdsburg
Designer and owner Jay Jeffers transformed this 1881 Victorian mansion channeling Oscar Wilde’s philosophy that art should exist for beauty’s sake alone. When Jeffers acquired the property in 2021, he lightened the formerly dark interiors while preserving original antiques, including carved black Victorian beds from the 1880s and the home’s original dining table, now refinished in white in the former Carriage House. The eight-acre property includes standalone bungalows, a half-acre garden ripe with citrus groves, and a crown jewel for lazing: a wraparound porch that has been restored after years of disuse.
