Into the Woods

Escape to a romantic cabin for an unforgettable honeymoon

Words and Photography by Gina Valente

A cabin in the woods, cozy blankets, an endless starry sky, and your beloved — can you imagine a more romantic honeymoon? From the shores of the Great Lakes to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Midwest is home to luxurious rental cabins that are ideal for honeymoons. Their secluded nature, beautiful locations, and modern design are a recipe for an idyllic escape you’ll never forget. Here, blogger (and newlywed!) Gina Valente of Moody Cabin Girl shares a few of her favorite cabins that are perfect for a dreamy, undeniably romantic post-nuptial getaway.

Fernside A-Frame

Location: Indian River

Rent Through: airbnb.com

Quick Facts: Up to 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath

Nothing says romance like a cozy cabin on the river. Fernside A-Frame is located in Indian River and checks all the boxes for a honeymoon cabin. This rental showcases an elevated hygge aesthetic — think cozy with a sophisticated flare. The cabin stands out among the pines with an exterior that is painted a striking black. The living room holds a lush seafoam velvet sofa, perfect for cuddling. A grid of glass panes lines the back of the triangular home from floor to ceiling, providing stunning views of the Sturgeon River. It’s everything two lovers could hope for when it comes time to celebrate their new union. 

True North

Location: Eagle River

Rent Through: airbnb.com 

Quick Facts: Up to 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bath

True North Cabin provides the ultimate adventure for newlyweds. This saltbox style structure is on the rocky shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, the northernmost part of the U.P. With a population of just over 2,000, this part of the state is like a world of its own. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s playground where hiking, biking, and boating opportunities abound. Inside, the cabin is styled in a rustic-modern fashion. The living room houses a giant stone fireplace with a comfortable seating area that allows couples to cuddle up and enjoy one-on-one time while they watch the fire and enjoy the view of the mighty Lake Superior. 

Michelle’s Haven

Location: Port Austin

Rent Through: airbnb.com

Quick Facts: Up to 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath

Honeymooners who are looking for something with a quaint, beachy vibe will love Michelle’s Haven in Port Austin. This cabin is located in The Thumb region and offers views of Lake Huron. While the cabin isn’t on the waterfront, it is within walking distance of a public beach, a kayak rental, beer garden, and Port Austin’s charming downtown area with old-fashioned ice cream salons and art galleries. The cabin is modern and airy with plenty of space, and the open concept kitchen and living room means cooking a meal while chatting with your beloved is effortless. 

Carpenter’s Cabin

Location: Laurelville, Ohio

Rent Through: airbnb.com

Quick Facts: Up to 8 guests, 5 bedrooms, 7 beds, 3 baths

Honeymooners who appreciate interesting architecture will be drawn to Carpenter’s Cabin in Laurelville, Ohio. The modern Scandinavian exterior sits on 32 park-like acres surrounded by towering trees. The sunken sofa “conversation pit” in the living room and an outdoor hot tub help this rental stand out from the rest. The cabin is also located near Hocking Hills State Park, where newlyweds will find waterfalls, caves, and hiking opportunities galore. This cabin is a sophisticated option for honeymooners looking to vacation in style.

The Homestead

Location: Mountain, Wis.

Rent Through: loonrapidslodge.com

Quick Facts: Up to 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 5 beds, 1.5 bath

The Homestead in Mountain, Wis., is a perfect selection for eco-conscious newlyweds. This one-of-a-kind eco-lodge is run entirely off solar energy. The property covers 600 feet of the Oconto River and is completely surrounded by forest. Instead of air conditioning, cool off with a jump in the river. Rather than watch TV, play cards on the upper deck or take a hike through the woods. The cabin interior looks like something out of a fairy tale with marble and oak floors and cedar cathedral ceilings. This vacation home is an eco-friendly marvel well-fitted for honeymooners looking to stay green.

Dell Prairie A-Frame Chalet

Location: Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Rent Through: airbnb.com

Quick Facts: Up to 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 2 baths

Couples who are looking to have an all-around fun time will love this A-frame in Wisconsin Dells. The surrounding area is filled to the brim with waterparks, miniature golf, and other tourist attractions. It’s also a central point for many hiking and outdoor activities. The cabin is eye catching, with the A-frame side painted bright blue and the back of the building a gorgeous rustic wood. The inside has plenty of space and boasts a large living room, kitchen, and dining room. The spiral staircase is a unique touch that adds a bit of whimsy to the home. Couples who want to throw on a swimsuit, barrel down a water slide, and have some fun will love the Dell Prairie A-Frame.