Plum Guide sees surge in 'unplugged' retreats

Plum Guide

Plum Guide sees surge in 'unplugged' retreats

January 30, 2025

New data from Plum Guide shows a surge in demand for 'unplugged', tech-light properties that maintain elegant standards and deluxe amenities. Olivia Palamountain reports

Travellers are increasingly seeking secluded, sustainable stays that offer both digital disconnection and premium amenities, according to new data from luxury holiday rental platform Plum Guide.

The company reports a 17% rise in bookings for remote, rural properties, while searches for "digital detox" accommodation have more than tripled from 2023 to 2024 according to Keywords Everywhere. Requests for digital detox-friendly homes have surged by 22%.

"We're definitely seeing a shift in what high-end travellers want right now. More and more, they're looking for off-grid escapes where they can disconnect and recharge but without compromising on luxury," says Doron Meyassed, CEO of Plum Guide. "It's all about finding that sweet spot between serenity and comfort. They want privacy, sustainability, and a chance to unplug, but they still expect the high-end services and amenities that define a top-tier experience." Plum Guides The trend spans multiple countries, with properties ranging from solar-powered desert homes in California to secluded windmills in Portugal.

Many offer eco-credentials while maintaining luxury standards, combining remote locations with services such as private chefs and guided wilderness adventures.

Recent guest Alison describes her family's experience at The Granaries on the Isle of Wight: "My family and I were looking for a place that was peaceful and remote, yet still accessible and had luxury amenities. We had grown tired of airport queues, and the thought of a ferry ride felt so much more appealing. Tucked down a quiet, single-track road and surrounded by beautiful coastal walks, this renovated property was the perfect spot to disconnect."Plum GuidesAnother guest, Abigail, who celebrated her 10th wedding anniversary at the same property, adds: "The home was beautiful, serene, and cosy, offering the perfect escape from it all. Our boys spent hours playing in the enchanting garden. Above all, we sought a peaceful place to disconnect and truly be together as a family."

The platform, which operates across 700 destinations in 29 countries, accepts only 3% of properties following a rigorous vetting process across multiple categories of quality, design, and service.Plum Guides

Featured off-grid homes at Plum Guide:

White Isle Hideaway - Ibiza, Spain - Remote setting in Ibiza. No TV or phone.

Hey Cowboy - California - Located in the Californian Desert, this home is completely 'off grid' and powered by solar.

Sitheil - Scotland - Based in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Secluded location, solar powered.

La Cabane, France - Very remote, nestled in the French countryside. This home is completely self sufficient. Electricity is powered by solar panels and water is sourced & filtered directly from a nearby spring. 

The Honey Jar, Portugal - Not super luxury, but a very unique home. A very secluded reconstructed windmill which is run completely on renewable energy. A home designed for switching off. 

For What Its Earth, Portugal - Secluded luxury villa in the Algarve, with full eco-credentials. No TV - promotes disconnection. 

Czech It Out, Czechia - Located in the heart of the forest, surrounded by nature. No TV on site - the home's "green" roof even features its own eco-system of decorative flowers and fresh fruit.

Under the Puglian Sun, Italy - A rebuilt farmers shack, designed for living outdoors. No wifi.

The Granaries - secluded home in The Isle of Wight, full eco-credentials but still with all of the amenities of a luxury home. 

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