I always try to maximise the time I spend outdoors during summer - soaking up vitamin D and recharging my batteries. Even though I would love to spend my entire summer travelling and being outside, I still have to work. To make the most of my summer without sacrificing productivity, I enjoy taking workations.
Since many of you share a similar experience, I've compiled a list of five rural colivings that are perfect for a slow summer. Each coliving offers a beautiful outdoor space that is ideal for both working and relaxing. I would recommend these places if you’re seeking a relaxing summer, adventures in nature, and great company.
1. Dwell - Azores, Portugal
Location: Fenais da Luz, São Miguel Island
Perched on a cliff on the northern coast of São Miguel, Dwell offers the most stunning work views anyone could imagine. The hosts, Ania and Charles, have created a homey coliving with a well-equipped coworking space and a beautiful terrace that is great for soaking up the sun. The Dwell community is very active and likes to engage in activities such as exploring the island, tasting local foods and community BBQs. Outside the house, there are plenty of opportunities for hikes and water sports.
Facilities: Private rooms. Private bathrooms. Common spaces.
Closest cities: Ponta Delgada
Link: https://dwellazores.com/
2. Cobana Coliving SRL – Romania
Location: Zărnești, near Brașov
Romania is probably not the first location that comes to your mind when thinking about your summer workation. However, if you like the mountains, you should visit Cobana Coliving in Transylvania. The coliving has a strong focus on sustainability and brings together a diverse community that wants to co-create and act as a catalyst for change. Cobana's beautiful garden and pavilion are perfect for work, to do sports, to meditate and to connect with fellow colivers. Next to spending time at the house, you will be able to explore the Piatra Craiului National Park and many iconic landmarks such as Dracula’s Castle and Râșnov Fortress.
Facilities: Private rooms. Private bathrooms. Common spaces.
Closest cities: Brașov, Sibiu, and Sighișoara.
Link: https://co-bana.co
3. Novoventus - Azores, Portugal
Location: Ginetes, São Miguel Island
Another great coliving spot in the Azores is Novoventus. This coliving space is located on the west coast of the Azorean Island São Miguel, which is the location of some of the island's best hikes. Emily, the owner of Novoventus, created a cosy coliving featuring a sustainable and slow way of living. The house is surrounded by a big garden where you can find fresh vegetables all year round. The small community of colivers engages in various activities such as exploring the island, board games, movie nights and BBQs.
Facilities: Shared and private rooms. Shared bathrooms. Common spaces.
Closest city: Ponta Delgada
Link: https://www.novovento-coworkation.com/
4. Ruralco - Spain
Location: Culla, Spain
If you cannot decide whether you want to spend your summer in the countryside or by the sea, Ruralco might be the place for you. The coliving is located in the hills north of Valencia, not far away from the Mediterranean coast. This coliving is all about connecting with nature and featuring a sustainable approach to living. The coliving has a large garden with a seated outdoor work area, a pool and on-site animals. In the surrounding area, one can go for hikes, collect wild rosemary and thyme and explore the nearby villages. Ruralco is a community-focused co-living where colivers prepare and share healthy meals made with local products.
Facilities: Private rooms. Private bathrooms. Common spaces.
Closest city: Valencia
Link: https://www.ruralco.live/
5. Tertulina Forest Coliving - Italy
Location: Tuscany, Italy
If Tuscany is one of those places that has been on your bucket list, you should visit Francesco and Tertuila in their rustic farmhouse right outside of Florence. With a focus on sustainability, the coliving space is fossil-free and promotes a regenerative approach to living. With its beautiful garden and barn, it is the ideal place to recharge and connect with nature. The international community engages in activities including yoga, movie nights, workshops, and dinners. Furthermore, colivers can take part in outdoor sports and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine.
Facilities: Private rooms. Common spaces.
Closest city: Florence
Link: https://tertulia.farm/