Gite, gasthof, agriturismo: Europe’s traditional accommodation options for classic hospitality

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Travelers are gradually shifting away from using Airbnb because of worries over price gouging locals. Nevertheless, they’re seeking a more unique experience than the impersonal atmosphere typically found in a standard hotel room.

Happily, across Europe, you will come across distinctive, traditional properties that will mold your holiday experience.

In Italy, you can unwind on rural farms where your breakfast comes directly from the surrounding area, while in Germany, you can savor a local brew in a beer garden before retiring for the night in a country inn.

Here are six types of traditional European accommodations to look out for.

Italy’s agriturismos are rural retreats

Over recent decades, Italy’s agriturismos have become increasingly popular among international travelers, making them a preferred choice for accommodations in smaller towns and rural regions.

This department is allocated a very limited portion.

Visitors can anticipate rustic stone structures and cozy interiors nestled in the midst of farmland and grazing animals.

Local diets typically include homegrown elements such as fruits, vegetables, eggs, and olive oil as part of breakfasts and occasionally, casual evening meals.

If you’re keen to explore Italy’s countryside, want a peaceful escape from city life, or are looking for a safe space for children to run around,

Britain’s inns are a welcoming place to rest overnight

If you’ve driven or walked through Britain’s countryside, you’ll probably have noticed numerous whitewashed stone inns along the roadside.

These are a historic option for accommodation – some claim to date back as far as the 11th century – which originally provided lodging and food for travelers on horseback or traveling in carriages.

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Their real charm, however, is the pub below. You can often savor local ales on tap and robust British delicacies – such as steak pies and fish and chips.

With regards to hostels, they may not be everyone’s first choice, but they are an excellent option for a one-night stopover while traveling through the country.

Experience the idyllic charm of rural France in a rustic gîte.

are generally cost-effective.

Often, it is a skilfully revamped country house, farmstead, or converted barn equipped with self-catering amenities – envision honey-colored stone, pale blue shutters, and an outdoor dining area under a canopy draped in vines, perfect for leisurely summer luncheons.

This type of accommodation is specially designed for everything from a solo digital detox retreat to a romantic couple’s getaway or a week-long family vacation.

Many people accept pets, and some even have private pools!

Take a break at a mountain refuge while trekking in the Italian Alps.

Mountain ranges, specifically the Apennines region, are dotted with structures called rifugi.

These range from small stone houses with simple bedrooms to chalets with bars and restaurants.

These modes of transportation are also accessible via cable car.

Refuges are an ideal choice for travellers who want breathtaking views, hearty mountain dishes like roasted pork hock or bread dumplings called canederli, and economical but lively accommodation for the night.

Relax in the outdoor beer garden of a traditional German inn.

For travelers, you can stay overnight at either a gasthof or gasthaus.

These establishments offer no-frills accommodations, warm wooden interiors, and a welcoming family atmosphere.

The highlight of spending a night in a gasthof is undoubtedly dining in the on-site restaurants or beer gardens, where you can expect to find classic dishes and regional specialties such as schnitzel and bratwurst.

Paradores provide prime views of cities and countryside in Spain

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There are approximately ninety installations scattered throughout the country, with nearly half situated within historic sites. The remaining ones are located in picturesque national parks offering breathtaking vistas.

They are state-run establishments, with the first one opening in 1928.

At the beginning of the 16th century.