The new Postcard Cabins Talladega Valley in Childersburg, Ala., offers riverside serenity. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Postcard Cabins
Marriott International is expanding its U.S.-based, outdoor-focused lodging offerings through the acquisition of the Postcard Cabins brand, formerly known as Getaway Outposts, and the signing of a long-term agreement with Trailborn boutique hotels.
With these deals, Marriott guests and Marriott Bonvoy members will have more choices in traditional and alternative accommodations in nature-forward destinations, noting that consumers have shown growing interest in being immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort. With the new deals, the company plans to launch an outdoor-focused collection in 2025.
“As guests are increasingly interested in nature-immersive travel, we are excited to build on the incredible breadth of our portfolio and welcome the Postcard Cabins and Trailborn portfolios to Marriott Bonvoy as we deliver more accommodations and experiences in awe-inspiring destinations,” said Leeny Oberg, CFO and executive vice president of development for Marriott. “Whether you’re looking for bespoke lodging near natural wonders, an elevated camping experience, or off-the-beaten-path excursions in nature, our planned outdoor-focused collection is expected to offer a broad array of options for seasoned adventurers and first-time explorers.”
Immersive accommodations in nature
The Postcard Cabins and Trailborn portfolios are set to enhance Marriott’s robust portfolio of alternative accommodations, such as tiny homes and cabins in natural destinations, and unique lodging near outdoor wonders like national parks, deserts, ski areas and shorelines.
The Postcard Cabins portfolio provides individual travelers and small groups with the opportunity to unplug and enjoy nature. Each property, which consists of groupings of tiny cabins, is within two hours’ drive of a major metropolitan area. Set in expansive woodlands, the cabins are dog-friendly and feature modern design, private bathrooms, full kitchens, and ample space between cabins for privacy and relaxation. There are 29 properties totaling more than 1,200 cabins across the United State, which will operate under long-term agreements with Marriott.
"In joining Marriott, we’re excited to bring the Postcard Cabins experience to a global audience seeking exactly what we offer — a place to slow down, disconnect from the everyday and invest in the relationships that matter most," said founder and CEO Jon Staff. "What started a decade ago with a small group of believers in the power of spending free time in nature, has grown into a national movement, which we expect will only gather steam with Marriott’s expansive reach."
Nature beckons from a guest room at the Trailborn Highlands in North Carolina. Photo Credit: Courtesy of TrailbornSmall hotels built for adventure
Trailborn is focused on bringing bespoke hotels built for adventure to the great American outdoors. Three current properties and the two in the pipeline total 559 rooms in five beautiful destinations. There are hotels near Rocky Mountain National Park, the Grand Canyon, and in Highlands, N.C., with new ones being built in Wrightsville Beach, N.C., and Mendocino, Calif.
Trailborn's design-forward accommodations are inspired by each property’s locale, and the hotels feature experience-driven programming, curated food-and-beverage offerings, and expert property teams to help guests chart their explorations.
“We are thrilled to announce Trailborn’s agreement with Marriott, enhancing and underscoring our mission to provide travelers with exceptional access to the country’s most extraordinary outdoor destinations, deliver experiences guests love, and maintain the unique character of Trailborn’s independent spirit,” said Mike Weiss and Ben Weinberg, cofounders and co-CEOs of Trailborn. “Trailborn is excited to work alongside Marriott to provide guests with the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in stunning outdoor settings.”