Increase in fire pit facilities at luxury hotels and Airbnb rentals
In the world of travel and hospitality, fire pits have emerged as a popular and influential amenity, transforming outdoor spaces into inviting gathering spots for guests. From exclusive camping sites in Germany to luxury hotels in the United States, accommodation providers are integrating fire pits into their offerings, recognising their potential to enhance guest satisfaction and boost repeat bookings.
In Germany, for instance, the exclusive camping site with a natural oasis and tipi fire pit offers a cozy, supervised fire experience that emphasises safety and sustainability. Another notable example is the Dreiländereck Ferienpark der Naturisten, a naturist campsite with fire pits as part of well-maintained amenities, situated in a natural, green environment. The Grohnder Fährhaus camping site also features thoughtfully designed campsites with privacy hedges and amenities for pets, incorporating fire pits within a scenic riverside setting.
These fire pits typically emphasise controlled, safe usage, environmental respect, and integration into natural or thematic settings, setting them apart from more generic offerings.
In cooler regions, fire pits make patios and courtyards usable well into the evening, providing an extension of the living space for guests. Some properties use fire pits to create unique experiences for guests, such as making s'mores.
The Hythe Vail in Colorado, for example, offers fireside seating for complimentary s'mores, live music, and outdoor yoga, turning the patio into a shared gathering space. The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale in Arizona offers private patios and balconies with gas fireplaces and desert views.
From boutique hotels to short-term rentals, the fire pit is not just a seasonal upgrade but a lasting investment in guest experience. Hosts who include fire pits in their listings should prioritise safety requirements and guest expectations.
Easy-to-lift covers, accessible fire starters, and cleanable cushions help avoid frustration for guests. Many hosts provide basic tools such as fire pokers and extinguishers, along with clear instructions.
Hosts looking to boost guest satisfaction should focus on small touches that make fire pit experiences feel polished and easy to enjoy. Clear instructions, simple seating arrangements, and ready-to-use setups often signal care to guests. Lighting that works without hassle reinforces a sense of comfort for guests.
Guests prefer fire pit areas that feel designed, not thrown together. Properties that use fire-safe materials, establish clear perimeters, and include weather-resistant seating leave a stronger impression.
Travelers can use filters on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to find listings with fire pits. Independent listings like Calliope Retreat in Beavercreek, Ore., have communal fire pits that hosts can help set up upon request.
Jennifer Allen, a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author, and nationally syndicated journalist, shares expert travel tips, cruise insights, and luxury destination guides on Food Drink Life. Allen, a recognised cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, regularly has her articles featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN, and more.
In the realm of travel and hospitality, fire pits have moved from optional amenities to features that influence booking decisions. Properties that successfully integrate fire pits into their offerings are reaping the rewards of increased guest satisfaction and repeat bookings.
