I’ve been hooked lately on what the future top 1% of short-term rentals will look like.
We've already covered Birdie Houses and their epic golf-focused properties, plus Edgecamp Sporting Club as “the Soho House for kitesurfers.” Both are perfect case studies of companies crushing it by going deep into a specific community and providing niche experiences.
But here’s the twist: you don’t have to be in a famous destination or a downtown hub to pull this off.
Meet Freewyld
Ever heard of Idyllwild, California? I hadn’t either. Tucked two hours from both Los Angeles and San Diego, this tiny mountain town feels like a world apart - yet it’s within driving distance of over 27 million people.
That’s where Freewyld comes in. Their entire concept is about offering an escape without the hassle of flying. Close enough for a weekend trip, far enough to feel truly disconnected.
The Niche: Digital Detox and Nature Connection
Unlike golfers or kitesurfing enthusiasts, Freewyld's tribe consists of people who simply want to disconnect from technology.
At Freewyld, every detail encourages guests to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with nature, loved ones, or themselves. They've built their vision around creating immersive stays where comfort meets adventure - a space free from screens, full of presence.
They encourage guests to "Step into Wyld Mode." Each cabin comes with a Wyld Mode Box (a simple but brilliant touch) where guests stash their phones to keep them out of sight and out of mind.
The design philosophy follows suit. Amenities aren’t built around tech or entertainment, but around nature: stargazing hammocks, picnic tables, and cozy gathering spaces that push guests to slow down and be present.
Freewyld clusters four cabins on two acres, designed like a village. Guests can rent individual cabins, or bigger groups can take over the entire property. Shared amenities reinforce that sense of community and presence.
The Numbers Don't Lie
According to Freewyld:
- Idyllwild market average: $97 RevPAR, 40% occupancy
- Freewyld performance: $190 RevPAR, 77% occupancy
That’s nearly double the revenue performance in the exact same market.
Here’s the key insight: People will happily drive two hours into the mountains and pay “big city” prices - if you give them an experience worth the trip.
The Pattern Continues
Whether it's golfers seeking the perfect trip, kitesurfers chasing ideal conditions, or city dwellers craving a true digital detox, the winning formula remains consistent: pick your niche, become the undisputed expert in serving that community, and build experiences so compelling that your property becomes the destination.
Bravo Freewyld
