10 ways holiday let properties in rural areas can stand out
- Stephanie Flint
- Mar 13
- 4 min read
Rural holiday lets are more popular than ever, with travellers seeking tranquillity, nature, and unique experiences. But with this rise in demand comes increased competition. So, how can your holiday let stand out in a crowded market? Here are 10 practical tips to help your property attract more guests, secure better reviews, and generate more bookings.
1. Invest in high-quality amenities
Guests expect more than just a comfy bed. Offering thoughtful amenities can make your property more appealing:
Luxury bedding and towels: invest in high-thread-count sheets and plush towels.
Hot tub or outdoor bath: a hot tub with countryside views is a major draw for rural stays.
Outdoor firepit and barbecue: encourage alfresco evenings with a cozy firepit and barbecue area.
Coffee machine: a quality coffee machine adds a touch of luxury for morning brews.
Rural Stays Tip: highlight these amenities in your listing titles to catch a potential guest’s eye.
2. Create an immersive guest experience
Memorable stays lead to repeat bookings. Go beyond the basics to create an immersive countryside experience:
Seasonal welcome packs: local jams, cheeses, or artisanal chocolates.
Personalised guidebook: share insider tips on local walks, attractions, and dining spots.
Interactive experiences: arrange farm visits, foraging walks, or stargazing nights.
Rural Stays Tip: guests who feel connected to the location and host often become loyal, repeat customers.
3. Offer pet-friendly features
Pet-friendly stays are in high demand, especially in rural areas. Cater to dog owners by providing:
Dog beds, bowls, and treats.
A secure, enclosed garden.
Information on dog-friendly walks, pubs, and beaches.
Rural Stays Tip: market your property as "dog-friendly" in listings to tap into this growing niche.
4. Prioritise cleanliness and presentation
Cleanliness is one of the most important factors in guest satisfaction. Partnering with a professional service like Rural Stays ensures a consistently high standard.
Key areas to focus on:
Windows – for those scenic views!
Outdoor areas like patios and hot tubs.
Soft furnishings, such as cushions and curtains.
Rural Stays Tip: watch Stephanie Flint’s appearance on HCH Bitesize to hear her top five cleaning tips for short-term rentals.
5. Embrace eco-friendly practices
Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a guest expectation. Show your commitment to the environment with:
Low-energy lighting and smart thermostats.
Eco-friendly cleaning products.
Recycling bins with clear signage.
Partnerships with local businesses that support conservation efforts.
Rural Stays Tip: install water-saving fixtures and highlight your eco-credentials on booking platforms.
6. Make outdoor spaces irresistible
Rural guests often seek outdoor relaxation, so make your exterior areas as inviting as possible:
Comfortable seating areas with cushions and throws.
Outdoor dining areas and barbecues for summer stays.
A firepit with marshmallow-roasting kits.
Thoughtful lighting for evening enjoyment.
Rural Stays Tip: provide binoculars and birdwatching guides for nature-loving guests.
7. Offer unique experiences
Make your holiday let more than just a place to sleep by offering bespoke experiences:
For families: nature scavenger hunts or animal-feeding sessions.
For couples: private picnics with local produce and sparkling wine. Try a private chef booking platform like yhangry for a special treat.
For wellness seekers: yoga mats and access to meditation apps.
Rural Stays Tip: experiences create stories – and stories get shared in reviews and social media posts. Promote your rental’s social media handles in the rental and ask guests to share their experience.
8. Optimise your online presence
In a saturated market, strong online visibility is crucial. Make sure you:
List your property on major platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO.
Build a direct booking website for returning guests.
Use social media to showcase your property's personality and location.
Rural Stays Tip: do everything you can to turn an OTA booker into a direct booker next time. A poster on the fridge with a QR code linking to your direct booking website will help to drive reservations.
9. Cater for remote workers
The rise of remote work has increased demand for properties that offer both relaxation and productivity. Stand out by:
Providing superfast, reliable Wi-Fi.
Adding a comfortable, well-lit workspace.
Offering an outdoor workspace for those who love a nature backdrop.
Rural Stays Tip: market your property as a ‘workation’ destination – perfect for remote workers needing a countryside escape. And if you have superfast Wi-Fi, mention the speed in your listing to help encourage bookings from digital nomads.
10. Build partnerships with local businesses
Collaborating with local businesses can add value to your guests' experience and support the community. Consider partnerships with:
Nearby farm shops for exclusive discounts.
Adventure providers (e.g., kayaking, hiking, cycling).
Local restaurants or pubs for guest-only offers.
Rural Stays Tip: join an upselling platform like The Host Co. or Mount to easily showcase local experiences and potentially earn commission whenever your guests make a booking.
Conclusion
Standing out in a competitive rural holiday let market is all about delivering memorable experiences, providing top-tier amenities, and consistently exceeding guest expectations. By implementing these 10 tips, you’ll not only attract more bookings but also build a reputation for exceptional guest satisfaction.
At Rural Stays, we’re passionate about supporting holiday let owners with expert cleaning services and industry insights. Let us help you create an experience that guests will rave about.
Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help your rural holiday let stand out!
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