Travelling is not just about the destinations; it’s about the experiences that shape our memories. Imagine waking up underwater, surrounded by marine life, or gazing at the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo. These are not mere fantasies but real possibilities in the world of unique accommodations. From architectural marvels to nature-integrated retreats, the hospitality industry has pushed the boundaries of conventional lodging, offering travellers extraordinary places to rest their heads.
As the demand for experiential travel grows, so does the creativity in accommodation design. Hoteliers and property owners are transforming everything from historical structures to extreme environments into unforgettable stays. These unique lodgings not only provide shelter but also become integral parts of the journey, often overshadowing traditional tourist attractions.
Architectural marvels: unconventional accommodations worldwide
Architecture has always been a reflection of human ingenuity, and nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of unique accommodations. Visionary designers and hoteliers have created spaces that challenge our perception of what a hotel room can be, turning the act of sleeping into an adventure in itself.
Underwater suites at atlantis, the palm in dubai
Nestled in the opulent Atlantis resort on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, the underwater suites offer a truly immersive experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom and bathroom provide panoramic views of the Ambassador Lagoon, home to over 65,000 marine animals. It’s as if you’re sleeping in a private aquarium, with sharks, rays, and colourful fish gliding past your bed.
The suites blend luxury with marine wonder, featuring elegant furnishings that complement the aquatic theme without overshadowing the main attraction—the underwater world outside. Guests can enjoy the unique perspective of observing sea life from the comfort of their plush king-size bed, creating a surreal and unforgettable stay.
Mirrored cubes of treehotel in swedish lapland
In the pristine forests of Swedish Lapland, the Treehotel offers a collection of unique treehouses, each designed by a different architect. The most striking of these is the Mirrorcube, a 4x4x4 metre box clad in mirrored glass, reflecting the surrounding forest and effectively camouflaging itself in nature.
Inside, the minimalist Scandinavian design provides a cosy retreat with stunning 360-degree views of the forest. The cube is suspended around a tree trunk, accessed by a rope bridge, creating the illusion of floating among the treetops. It’s an architectural feat that challenges perceptions and offers guests a chance to disappear into the landscape.
Geodesic dome igloos at kakslauttanen arctic resort, finland
The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finnish Lapland has redefined winter accommodation with its geodesic glass igloos. These futuristic domes offer unobstructed views of the starry Arctic sky and, if you’re lucky, the mesmerising Northern Lights. The igloos are a perfect blend of comfort and spectacle, with thermal glass keeping guests warm while they gaze at the celestial show above.
Each igloo is equipped with luxurious beds positioned directly under the glass dome, allowing guests to fall asleep under the stars. The resort also offers activities like reindeer safaris and ice fishing, but many guests find it hard to leave the magical confines of their glass-enclosed sanctuary.
Cliff-side capsule rooms at skylodge adventure suites, peru
For thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, the Skylodge Adventure Suites in Peru’s Sacred Valley offer an adrenaline-pumping accommodation experience. Transparent capsules are suspended 400 feet up the side of a mountain, providing breathtaking views of the Andes and the valley below.
Reaching your suite is an adventure in itself, requiring guests to climb a via ferrata or hike an intrepid trail. Once inside, the capsules offer surprising comfort with comfortable beds, a dining area, and even a private bathroom. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the desire to push the boundaries of where we can create habitable spaces.
Nature-integrated retreats: immersive Eco-Experiences
As travellers seek deeper connections with nature, accommodations that seamlessly blend with their surroundings have gained popularity. These eco-retreats offer not just a place to stay, but a chance to immerse oneself in the natural world, often with a minimal environmental footprint.
Treehouse lodges in costa rica’s Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge
Costa Rica, known for its rich biodiversity, offers travellers the chance to sleep among the treetops in its lush rainforests. In the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, treehouse lodges provide an intimate experience with nature. These elevated structures are designed to have minimal impact on the forest while offering guests unparalleled access to wildlife.
From your private balcony, you might spot howler monkeys, toucans, or even sloths in their natural habitat. The lodges are often constructed using sustainable materials and powered by renewable energy, aligning with Costa Rica’s commitment to eco-tourism. It’s an opportunity to live out childhood fantasies while contributing to conservation efforts.
Overwater bungalows at soneva fushi, maldives
The Maldives is synonymous with luxury overwater bungalows, but Soneva Fushi takes the concept to new heights—literally. Their new Water Retreats are the largest overwater villas in the world, featuring private pools, water slides, and retractable roofs for stargazing. What sets these bungalows apart is their commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury.
Built with eco-friendly materials and powered by solar energy, these villas offer guilt-free indulgence. Glass floor panels allow guests to observe marine life directly beneath their feet, creating a constant connection with the ocean. It’s a perfect example of how luxury tourism can coexist with environmental consciousness.
Glass igloos for northern lights viewing at levin iglut, finland
Levin Iglut in Finnish Lapland offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows—the Aurora Borealis. The glass igloos are heated and equipped with motorised beds that can be adjusted for optimal sky viewing. Unlike traditional accommodations, these igloos blur the line between indoor comfort and outdoor wonder.
The design of these igloos is a marvel of engineering, using specially treated glass that remains clear in sub-zero temperatures. Guests can enjoy the warmth of their igloo while feeling completely immersed in the Arctic landscape. It’s an unparalleled way to experience the magic of the Northern Lights.
Eco-pods at whitepod, swiss alps
In the heart of the Swiss Alps, Whitepod offers a unique blend of eco-tourism and luxury. Geodesic dome pods dot the mountainside, each heated by a pellet stove and decorated with locally sourced materials. The pods are designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising guest comfort and connection to nature.
In winter, the pods blend seamlessly with the snowy landscape, while in summer, they offer a base for hiking and mountain activities. The resort operates on sustainable principles, from water and energy conservation to waste reduction. It’s a testament to how luxury accommodation can be both comfortable and environmentally responsible.
Historical transformations: repurposed structures as lodgings
The adaptive reuse of historical structures for accommodation not only preserves architectural heritage but also offers guests a chance to sleep within the pages of history. These transformations breathe new life into old buildings, creating unique stays that tell stories of the past while providing modern comforts.
Converted defence tower at spitbank fort, portsmouth, UK
Off the coast of Portsmouth, England, Spitbank Fort stands as a testament to Victorian-era naval defence. Built in the 1860s to protect against French invasion, this sea fort has been transformed into a luxury hotel. The conversion maintains much of the fort’s original structure, including the thick granite walls and gun ports, now serving as unique windows.
Guests arrive by boat to this exclusive island retreat, where they can explore the fort’s history, enjoy a drink in the former ammunition store turned bar, or relax in the rooftop hot tub with panoramic views of the Solent. It’s a rare opportunity to experience a slice of military history in supreme comfort.
Revitalised prison cells at malmaison oxford, england
The Malmaison Oxford offers guests the unusual experience of sleeping in a converted prison cell. Located in the former Oxford Castle prison, this hotel retains many original features, including iron doors and barred windows, cleverly juxtaposed with luxurious furnishings and modern amenities.
The transformation from penitentiary to plush hotel is nothing short of remarkable. Where prisoners once served time, guests now enjoy spacious suites, fine dining, and a unique glimpse into Victorian penal history. It’s a prime example of how creative repurposing can turn a forbidding structure into a desirable destination.
Refurbished train carriages at santos express, south africa
Parked permanently on Santos Beach in Mossel Bay, South Africa, the Santos Express offers accommodation in refurbished train carriages. This unique hotel provides guests with the romance of rail travel combined with stunning ocean views. Each carriage has been lovingly restored, maintaining the charm of vintage rail travel while providing modern comforts.
Guests can choose from various cabin types, from cosy compartments to larger suites, all with the sound of the waves as a constant companion. The dining car serves meals with a view, and the beach is just steps away. It’s a nostalgic nod to the golden age of rail travel, reimagined for the modern traveller.
Cave dwellings and underground havens
Throughout history, humans have sought shelter in caves, and today, these ancient dwellings have been reimagined as unique accommodations. Modern cave hotels offer a blend of primal connection to the earth and surprising luxury, creating experiences that are both grounding and indulgent.
Cappadocia’s ancient cave hotels in göreme, turkey
The otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, with its distinctive “fairy chimneys” and honeycombed hills, is home to some of the most remarkable cave hotels in the world. In the town of Göreme, ancient cave dwellings have been meticulously restored and converted into boutique hotels, offering guests a chance to sleep in rooms carved from volcanic rock.
These cave hotels seamlessly blend historical authenticity with modern luxury. Many rooms feature hand-carved furnishings, locally woven textiles, and modern amenities, all while maintaining the unique character of the cave. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surreal landscape from terraces cut into the rock face, experiencing a connection to both the earth and the rich history of human habitation in the region.
Sala silvermine underground suite, sweden
For those seeking the ultimate in subterranean stays, the Sala Silvermine in Sweden offers a truly unique experience. The world’s deepest hotel room is located 155 meters underground in a former silver mine. This exclusive suite is carved directly into the rock, surrounded by winding tunnels and caverns.
The journey to the room is an adventure in itself, involving a mine cage descent and a guided walk through dark passages. Once in the suite, guests find surprising comfort with plush bedding, silver furnishings, and ambient lighting that accentuates the rock walls. The absolute silence and constant 18°C temperature create an otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for those seeking solitude and a break from the outside world.
Desert cave hotel in coober pedy, australia
In the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, where summer temperatures can soar to 47°C, residents have long found refuge underground. The Desert Cave Hotel offers visitors the chance to experience this unique way of living. Guests can choose between underground rooms carved into the sandstone or above-ground rooms, though the subterranean options are undoubtedly the main attraction.
The underground rooms maintain a constant, comfortable temperature without the need for air conditioning, showcasing the natural insulation properties of the earth. Despite being underground, the rooms are surprisingly spacious and well-ventilated. The hotel also features underground shops, bars, and an opal interpretive centre, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the town’s unique culture and history.
Innovative mobile accommodations
The concept of mobile accommodation has evolved far beyond traditional caravans and RVs. Today’s innovative mobile lodgings offer the flexibility to change locations while providing comfort and style that rivals stationary hotels. These movable retreats cater to the growing desire for freedom and spontaneity in travel.
Roving hotels: cabin’s relocatable wilderness retreats
Cabin, a start-up company, has reimagined the concept of hotels with its fleet of relocatable cabins. These modern, minimalist structures can be placed in various wilderness locations, offering guests ever-changing views and experiences. The cabins are designed to be self-sufficient, with solar power and composting toilets, allowing them to be situated in remote, pristine environments.
What sets Cabin apart is its subscription model, where members can book stays in different locations throughout the year. One month you might be overlooking a serene lake, the next perched on a coastal cliff. It’s a revolutionary approach that combines the comfort of a boutique hotel with the adventure of camping and the flexibility of a nomadic lifestyle.
Luxury airstream trailers at AutoCamp, joshua tree
AutoCamp has elevated the classic American road trip experience with its collection of beautifully refurbished Airstream trailers. At their Joshua Tree location, these iconic silver bullets are set against the backdrop of the Californian desert, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern comfort.
Each Airstream is outfitted with luxurious bedding, a spa-inspired bathroom, and a private patio for stargazing. While the trailers themselves don’t move, they capture the spirit of mobile living, allowing guests to enjoy the comforts of a hotel room with the ambiance of camping. The surrounding Joshua Tree National Park provides a stunning natural playground for hiking, rock climbing, and desert exploration.
Floating capsule hotels on kawaguchiko lake, japan
On the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, with views of Mount Fuji, a unique floating hotel concept has emerged. These capsule-like pods can be detached from the shore and float freely on the lake, offering guests an unparalleled connection with the water and surrounding landscape.
Each pod is equipped with transparent walls and ceilings, providing 360-degree views of the lake and sky. At night, guests can stargaze from their bed, with the gentle rocking of the water lulling them to sleep. During the day, the pods can be moved to different locations on the lake, allowing for varied perspectives of Mount Fuji and the surrounding scenery. It’s a mobile accommodation that combines the tranquility of water with the excitement of a constantly changing view.
Extreme environment lodgings
For the most adventurous travellers, accommodations in extreme environments offer the ultimate escape from the ordinary. These lodgings not only provide shelter in inhospitable conditions but turn the very challenge of their location into a unique selling point, offering experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
Ice hotels: sweden’s ICEHOTEL vs. canada’s hôtel de glace
Ice hotels represent the pinnacle of seasonal, extreme environment accommodations. Sweden’s ICEHOTEL, located in Jukkasjärvi, is rebuilt each winter using ice from the Torne River. Artists from around the world sculpt rooms and suites, creating a unique gallery of ice art that guests can sleep in. Similarly, Canada’s Hôtel de Glace near Quebec City offers a North American alternative, complete with ice bars, chapels, and intricate snow carvings.
Both hotels provide thermal sleeping bags and expert advice on staying warm, turning the challenge of sleeping at sub-zero temperatures into an adventure. The ephemeral nature of these structures, which melt away each spring, adds to their allure, making each stay a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience
Fogo island inn’s contemporary design in harsh newfoundland climate
Perched on the rocky shores of Fogo Island off the coast of Newfoundland, the Fogo Island Inn stands as a testament to innovative architecture in extreme environments. Designed by Todd Saunders, this striking structure appears to float above the rugged landscape, supported by stilts that minimize its impact on the delicate coastal ecosystem.
The inn’s design is a bold interpretation of traditional Newfoundland outport architecture, featuring sharp angles and a stark white exterior that contrasts dramatically with the wild North Atlantic backdrop. Floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the 29 suites offer panoramic views of the oft-tumultuous sea and ever-changing sky, immersing guests in the raw beauty of their surroundings.
Despite its remote location and challenging climate, the Fogo Island Inn offers world-class amenities, including a cinema, library, art gallery, and rooftop hot tubs. The inn’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of locally sourced materials and furniture crafted by island artisans. It’s a place where luxury meets wilderness, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience the harsh beauty of Newfoundland in comfort.
Skeleton coast shipwreck lodge, namibia’s desert-ocean convergence
On Namibia’s haunting Skeleton Coast, where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, the Shipwreck Lodge offers an otherworldly accommodation experience. Designed to resemble the numerous shipwrecks that litter this treacherous coastline, the lodge’s wooden cabins appear to have washed ashore, half-buried in the sand dunes.
Each of the ten cabins is a masterpiece of eco-friendly design, powered by solar energy and constructed to withstand the area’s extreme conditions. Inside, guests find unexpected comfort, with wood-burning stoves to ward off the desert chill and large windows framing views of the desolate yet mesmerizing landscape.
The Shipwreck Lodge not only provides shelter in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments but also serves as a base for exploring this unique ecosystem. Guests can embark on desert safaris to spot desert-adapted wildlife, visit the famous clay castles of the Hoarusib River, or simply marvel at the interplay of mist, sand, and sea that defines this remote corner of the world. It’s a rare opportunity to sleep comfortably in a place that has claimed countless ships and lives, offering a profound connection to the power and beauty of nature.
