If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve likely come across the enchanting world of "cottagecore." This aesthetic, with its roots in romanticizing rural life, has taken the internet by storm. Imagine rolling hills, cozy cabins, wildflower meadows, and a slower pace of life that invites you to reconnect with nature. Now, picture this as the backdrop for your next girls' trip—a weekend escape that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Ready to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for a countryside getaway? Here’s how to plan the perfect cottagecore-inspired girls' trip.

Choosing the Perfect Cottagecore Destination

The first step in planning your cottagecore escape is picking the right destination. Look for places that offer a blend of natural beauty, charming accommodations, and opportunities for outdoor activities that allow you to connect with the landscape. Here are a few ideas:

• The Cotswolds, England: With its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic cottages, the Cotswolds is the epitome of cottagecore charm. Explore quaint towns like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, enjoy traditional cream teas, and take long walks through the scenic countryside.
• Hudson Valley, New York: Just a short drive from NYC, Hudson Valley offers a mix of lush forests, riverside trails, and artisanal markets. Stay in a rustic cabin or a charming B&B, and spend your days hiking, foraging, and visiting local farms.
• The Lake District, England: Known for its stunning lakes and mountains, the Lake District is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. Rent a cozy cottage, have a picnic by the water, and explore the region’s literary history.
• Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina: For a more accessible option, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer breathtaking views, charming small towns, and plenty of hiking opportunities. Stay in a log cabin and wake up to misty mountain mornings.

Packing Essentials: What to Bring for Your Cottagecore Trip

Part of the charm of cottagecore lies in its nostalgic, vintage-inspired aesthetic. Packing the right items can help set the mood for your trip and make your Instagram photos even more magical. Here’s what you should consider bringing:

• Floral Dresses and Skirts: Flowy, floral prints are a must for capturing that romantic cottagecore vibe. Think prairie dresses, maxi skirts, and anything with lace or ruffles.
• Knit Sweaters and Cardigans: Layering is key when you’re spending time outdoors. Bring cozy knits that you can throw on during cool evenings or early morning walks.
• Vintage Accessories: Straw hats, wicker baskets, and dainty jewelry add the perfect finishing touches to your cottagecore outfits. Don’t forget a pair of sturdy but stylish boots for your countryside adventures.
• Polaroid Camera: Capture the magic of your trip with instant photos that you can keep as mementos. There’s something special about the tactile nature of Polaroid pictures that fits perfectly with the cottagecore theme.
• A Good Book: Whether it’s a classic novel or a collection of poetry, bring along something to read during your downtime. Picture yourself lounging in a hammock or by a crackling fireplace, lost in a good story.

Cottagecore Activities: Embracing Nature and Simple Pleasures

One of the best things about a cottagecore trip is the opportunity to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Here are some activities that will help you and your friends fully immerse yourselves in the experience:

• Picnics in Wildflower Fields: Pack a picnic basket with homemade sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a bottle of wine. Find a scenic spot in a wildflower meadow or by a babbling brook, and spend the afternoon lounging on a blanket, enjoying good food and great company.
• Flower Arranging and Foraging: Embrace your inner florist by picking wildflowers and arranging them into beautiful bouquets. You can also forage for herbs, berries, and other edible plants to use in your meals.
• Baking and Cooking: Cottagecore is all about homemade, rustic meals. Spend some time in the kitchen baking bread, making jams, or whipping up a hearty stew. Cooking together can be a fun and rewarding way to bond with your friends.
• Exploring Local Markets and Farms: Visit nearby farmers’ markets or farm stands to stock up on fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade goods. You might even find some vintage treasures to take home as souvenirs.
• Hiking and Nature Walks: Take advantage of your surroundings by going on hikes or leisurely nature walks. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the sights and sounds of the countryside, and let yourself unwind.

Creating the Cottagecore Ambiance in Your Accommodations

Where you stay can make a big difference in the overall vibe of your trip. To fully embrace the cottagecore aesthetic, look for accommodations that are cozy, quaint, and full of character. Here are some tips for setting the right ambiance:

• Stay in a Rustic Cabin or Cottage: Choose a place that feels like a home away from home, with features like wood-burning fireplaces, exposed beams, and vintage decor. Bonus points if it’s surrounded by nature!
• Decorate with Fresh Flowers: Bring the outdoors inside by placing vases of wildflowers around your accommodation. This simple touch can instantly make any space feel more inviting and cottagecore.
• Cozy Up with Soft Blankets and Pillows: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of soft blankets, pillows, and throws. Opt for natural materials like wool, linen, and cotton in muted, earthy tones.
• Light Some Candles: Set the mood with the soft glow of candles. Choose scents like lavender, vanilla, or cedarwood to complement the cozy, rustic feel of your surroundings.

Capturing the Magic: Tips for Photographing Your Cottagecore Getaway

Finally, you’ll want to document your cottagecore trip so you can relive the memories later. Here are a few tips for capturing the magic on camera:

• Take Advantage of Natural Light: The soft, golden light of early morning or late afternoon is perfect for capturing that dreamy cottagecore aesthetic. Try to take most of your photos during these times for the best results.
• Focus on the Details: Don’t just take wide shots of the landscape—focus on the little details that make your trip special. Close-ups of wildflowers, your picnic spread, or your friends laughing together will help tell the story of your getaway.
• Use Props to Set the Scene: Props like vintage books, teacups, or a picnic blanket can add an extra layer of charm to your photos. Arrange them thoughtfully to create a scene that feels natural and inviting.
• Embrace Imperfections: Cottagecore is all about celebrating the beauty in imperfection. Don’t worry if your photos aren’t perfectly staged or if the lighting isn’t just right. Sometimes, the most authentic moments are the ones that aren’t planned.

Your Perfect Cottagecore Getaway Awaits

Planning a cottagecore-inspired girls' trip is the perfect way to escape the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with nature and your closest friends. Whether you’re picnicking in a wildflower field, exploring a charming countryside village, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this kind of getaway offers a much-needed dose of tranquility and nostalgia. So gather your friends, pack your floral dresses, and get ready to create memories that will feel like they’ve been plucked straight from the pages of a storybook.

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