Traveling is not just about visiting new places; it’s also about experiencing new ways of living. While luxury hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts have their charm, there’s something extraordinary about staying in a unique accommodation. From sleeping in a treehouse to living in a cave, here are ten unusual places to stay around the world, reviewed for their distinctive appeal and some tips on how to book them.
1. Treehotel, Sweden
Experience
Nestled in the forests of Harads, Treehotel offers a series of architecturally stunning treehouses suspended high among the pines. Each treehouse has its own unique design, from the reflective “Mirrorcube” to the UFO-like “The UFO.” The serene environment and panoramic views of the Lule River Valley create an unforgettable experience.
Booking Tips
Treehotel is popular, especially during the summer and winter months, so book well in advance. Check their website for seasonal offers and packages that include activities like dog sledding and northern lights tours.
2. Icehotel, Sweden
Experience
Located in Jukkasjärvi, the Icehotel is the world’s first hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Each winter, artists from around the globe create new rooms, making every stay unique. The experience includes sleeping on ice beds with reindeer skins and heavy-duty sleeping bags, and marveling at ice sculptures and intricate designs.
Booking Tips
Book early as the Icehotel is rebuilt annually, and availability can be limited. Consider staying for multiple nights to experience both the ice rooms and the warm rooms offered on-site.
3. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
Experience
Famous for its glass igloos, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers a chance to sleep under the northern lights in the comfort of a heated glass dome. The resort also features log cabins, snow igloos, and traditional Finnish houses. The surrounding wilderness offers activities like husky safaris and ice fishing.
Booking Tips
The glass igloos are highly sought after, so reserve your stay at least six months in advance. Visit during the aurora season (late August to April) for the best chance to see the northern lights.
4. Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Experience
Set in the outskirts of Nairobi, Giraffe Manor offers a unique experience where Rothschild giraffes roam freely around the property. Guests can interact with these gentle giants, feeding them from their breakfast table or even from their bedroom windows. The manor itself exudes old-world charm with its elegant 1930s decor.
Booking Tips
Giraffe Manor is a boutique hotel with limited rooms, so early booking is essential. Look for packages that include excursions to the nearby giraffe center and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
5. The Manta Resort, Zanzibar
Experience
The Manta Resort on Pemba Island offers an underwater room, a private floating island with a bedroom four meters below the surface. Guests can observe marine life from their bed, making it a surreal underwater experience. Above water, the resort provides stunning views and luxurious amenities.
Booking Tips
The underwater room is incredibly popular, so book well in advance. Ensure your stay includes meals and transfers, as the resort is quite secluded.
6. The Dog Bark Park Inn, USA
Experience
In Cottonwood, Idaho, you can stay in a giant beagle-shaped structure known as the Dog Bark Park Inn. This quirky bed-and-breakfast is a must for dog lovers, with canine-themed decor and artwork. The owners, who are chainsaw artists, offer a unique and hospitable experience.
Booking Tips
The inn is small, so reservations are necessary. Plan your visit during the warmer months, as the area can be quite remote and cold in the winter.
7. Cappadocia Cave Suites, Turkey
Experience
Cappadocia is famous for its unique rock formations and cave dwellings. At Cappadocia Cave Suites, you can stay in a luxurious cave room equipped with modern amenities. The hotel combines ancient history with comfort, offering stunning views of the region’s iconic fairy chimneys.
Booking Tips
Cappadocia is a year-round destination, but spring and fall offer the best weather. Book a hot air balloon ride early to experience the breathtaking landscape from above.
8. Free Spirit Spheres, Canada
Experience
In the coastal rainforest of Vancouver Island, Free Spirit Spheres offers spherical treehouses suspended in the canopy. These eco-friendly pods provide a peaceful retreat in nature, with the gentle sway of the trees adding to the tranquility.
Booking Tips
Due to their limited number and unique appeal, the spheres are often booked months in advance. Visit in the summer for the best weather and to take advantage of the nearby hiking and kayaking opportunities.
9. The Shire of Montana, USA
Experience
Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien will love The Shire of Montana, a hobbit-themed accommodation set in the mountains of Trout Creek. The hobbit house is built into a hillside, complete with a round door and cozy interiors. It’s a magical escape for those seeking a fantasy-inspired getaway.
Booking Tips
The Shire of Montana is open seasonally, so check availability and book early. Bring your own food and supplies, as the location is remote.
10. Attrap’Rêves Bubble Hotel, France
Experience
Attrap’Rêves offers transparent bubble tents in various locations around France. Guests can sleep under the stars while still enjoying modern comforts like a bed and private bathroom. Each bubble is set in a secluded area, providing privacy and a unique outdoor experience.
Booking Tips
Bubbles are available in different regions, so choose one based on the type of scenery you prefer (forest, countryside, etc.). Book in advance, especially for the summer months, and check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies.
These unique accommodations offer more than just a place to sleep; they provide unforgettable experiences that connect you with nature, culture, and creativity. When planning your stay, remember to book early, consider the best times to visit, and take advantage of any special packages or activities offered.
If you’re looking for all-inclusive tour packages with unique accommodations, please visit OneWorldAdventure.com.
