The10 Most Unique Hotels in the World
PC - Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Lapland, Finland
If you are are an adventurous traveler, you are always looking for unusual experiences. Hotels can be very repetitive, soulless, and unimaginative. They generally have the same amenities, layouts, breakfasts, etc. Some are better than others, but most of the time hotels are basically the base from which you explore the region.
But wait – there are some hotels which are bucket-list worthy. These unique hotels are awesome destinations on their own. If you stay at these iconic resorts, you don’t need to step out of the premises to have an amazing experience. I have compiled a list of hotels where you must stay once in your lifetime. You decide what is your preference – decadent luxury, stunning locations, jaw-dropping architecture, or surreal experiences. These legendary resorts will burn a big hole in your pocket, but they are definitely worth it. You will have a one-of-a-kind experience that you will treasure all life.
1. Hotel Kakslauttanen, Finland
Most of the travelers already have this ‘million-star hotel’ in their bucket-list. Hotel Kakslauttanen is located in Saariselka in Finland, 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The rooms are shaped as Igloos and made of glass. From the warmth of your cabin, you can have an unobstructed view of the stars and even the Northern Lights (if you are lucky). The city of Saariselka is one of the best places to watch the northern lights. The spectacular natural light show is visible from late August to early April. If you have had your fill of stargazing, you can explore the Arctic wilderness through husky and reindeer safari, drive through the snow on a snowmobile, go cross-country skiing or visit Santa’s house nearby.
The glass Igloos come in different sizes and shapes – small igloos, large igloos, Kelo igloos, luxury Kelo igloos. Though they are very expensive, don’t expect super luxury. The small igloos only have a small toilet and have to use communal shower facilities. The larger ones can accommodate a family of four with private bathroom and shower facilities. Besides the Glass igloos, you have the option to stay at Chalets and Snow Igloos. The resort has 6 onsite restaurants, gym, and airport transfers (on charge).
Cost per night – Starts from $450 per room
2. Giraffe Manor, Kenya
An exclusive boutique hotel situated on the outskirts of Nairobi, Giraffe Manor is another unique hotel to be added to your bucket-list. The elegant property built-in the 1930’s with its manicured gardens, timeless interiors, and the stately facade is a coveted property in its own right. What makes it unique is the herd of endangered Rothschild giraffes which roam about freely on the resort premises. The resident giraffes visit the dining areas and poke their long necks through the windows looking for treats from the visitors. Every room is stocked with food for the long-necked giants.
The 12 acres iconic property is one of the most Instagrammed properties in the world. The Manor has 12 luxury suites and is closed in April-May for one month every year. The resort is expensive no doubt, but you are going to have one of the most unique and amazing experiences of your life. Kids are going to love it.
Cost per night – Starts from $1000 all-inclusive
3. Ashford Castle, Ireland
Perfect opportunity to fulfill all your fantasies of living in a castle. The sprawling 13th century Ashford castle has been built over the centuries and was opened as a luxury resort in 1939. The 350-acre castle had massive renovations in recent years restoring it to original splendor and finesse. It has 83 luxury rooms/suites, multiple dining options, 32-seat movie theatre, elegant public lounges, full-service spa, and library. You will not only witness antique splendor but also enjoy excellent service and warm Irish hospitality. The Afternoon tea will definitely take you to a bygone era.
Ashford Castle has a wide range of on-site activities to keep you entertained for days – falconry, hiking, zip-lining, riding, golf, and much more. There is a gallery to showcase the celebrities who have stayed in the castle. Perfect getaway for romantic breaks and family holidays.
Cost per night – Starts from $300 per room
4. The Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania
The Manta Resort is a remote paradise located on the tropical island of Pamba in Tanzania. The five-star resort is for those who are looking for solitude and remoteness. What makes the resort unique is the Underwater sea room from where you can admire the exotic marine life glide past your window. The floating luxury suite anchored in an ocean floor has three levels – landing deck having lounge and bathroom, top deck offering amazing star gazing views, and then the submerged bedroom sitting four meters beneath the crystal clear waters. The breathtaking thriving coral reef around the tiny private island makes it a perfect getaway for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The unique experience of sleeping under the waves cannot come cheap. So be ready to shell out a hefty sum for a stay at the Underwater Room at The Manta Resort.
Price per night – From $1700 per room (minimum three nights)
5. Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru
If you are an adventure freak, Skylodge Adventure Suites should definitely be on your bucket list. The luxury capsules clinging to the steep cliffside are located 1200 ft up on the mountains in the stunning Sacred Valley of Cusco. You will have to climb 400 meters up a Peruvian mountain via Ferrata or hike through zip lines to reach the 24-ft-long suspended capsule. The cliff-hanging suites are completely transparent providing you with a breathtaking view of the mystical Sacred Valley. There are curtains if you need some privacy from the passing birds
The hand-crafted suit is made of aerospace aluminum and is weather resistant. The Nature Vive Skylodge has three capsule pods, each having four beds, an ensuite bathroom, and a dining area. Besides the impressive view, you are treated to yummy breakfast and gourmet dinner which is carried by the guides on their backs.
Price per night – From $430 per person all-inclusive
6. Icehotel, Sweden
If you have dreamt of living like an Eskimo, this is your chance. Icehotel located in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden is the first ice and snow hotel of the world. Built in 1989, the hotel takes a new shape every winter and is rebuilt using snow and ice from the neighbouring Torne River. The rooms have a bed sculpted out of ice which is covered with fur blankets and a thermal sleeping bag. The ‘Cold rooms’ are decorated with hand-carved ice sculptures and ice decor which are carved by new artists every year. ‘Warm rooms’ are also available.
Situated 200 kms north of the Arctic Circle, the Icehotel only runs from December to April. It is a unique experience where guests are brought to the property in snowmobile or dogsled. The hotel has ice gallery, ice chapel, ice bar, heated restaurants and wilderness camps.
Price per night (Cold Rooms) – Starts from $400 per person
7. Viceroy Los Cabos, Mexico
The stunning architectural wonder designed by Miguel Angel Aragones will mesmerize you with its modern, minimalist design. Located on the Sea of Cortez in Baja California, Viceroy Los Cabos is a dramatic and futuristic marvel with reflecting pools, looming white buildings, polished glass, and abundance of natural light. The waterfront landmark has 192 guest rooms connected by elevated walkways that run across the gleaming water. The stylish rooms are decorated in shades of white, cream, and aqua and have floor-to-ceiling windows so that you can enjoy spectacular views of the sea.
The Sushi restaurant ‘Nido’ shaped like an inverted bird’s nest is the perfect centerpiece for the stylish resort. There are four dining options, roof-top bar, must-visit spa, multiple pools, and movie theatre.
Price per night – From $500 per room
8. Treehotel, Sweden
Who wants to miss a chance to live amongst the tall pine trees and enjoy the breathtaking views of mystical forests and gushing the Lule river. Treehotel in Harads, Sweden is the perfect place to fulfill this dream. The tree rooms are suspended 4-10 meters above the ground and can be reached by bridge, electric stairs or ramp. The hotel blends seamlessly into the surroundings, giving you an opportunity to experience nature in a most memorable way.
Treehotel has seven tree rooms, each having a uniquely designed exterior – Bird’s nest, UFO, Mirrorcube, 7th room are the popular ones. The suspended tree-top accommodations are equipped with underfloor heating, electricity, air conditioning, refrigerators, incinerating toilets, and other facilities. Meals are served in Treehotel Guesthouse restaurant. Snowmobile safari, Northern Light hunt, white water rapids, ice skating, ski trail are some of the activities you can enjoy depending on the season.
Price per night – From $500 per room
9. Lakepalace, Udaipur
In the middle of serene Lake Pichola in Udaipur, floats the ravishing Lake Palace hotel. Formerly known as Jag Niwas, the white marble palace was built in 1746 for Prince Jagat Singh II and was converted into a luxury hotel in the 1960s. Majestic exterior, open-air courtyards, manicured gardens, and pillared terraces give a very romantic feel to this iconic architectural marvel. The fact that you can reach the property only by boat, adds to the charm of the palace. The grandeur and traditional hospitality will give you a glimpse of the lifestyle of Indian royalty.
Lake Palace has 66 rooms and 17 suites which have retained their original splendor and offer breathtaking views of the Lake Pichola, charming Udaipur city, and the surrounding Aravalis. The hotel has specialty restaurants, elegant bars, and a fully-equipped spa. The popular hotel has been the site for the shooting of the James Bond film, Octopussy. Many eminent personalities like Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy have stayed at this legendary hotel.
Price per night – From $380 per room
10. Palacio De Sal, Bolivia
Located on the edge of Sala de Uyuni in Bolivia, Palacio De sal hotel is the first hotel that is made up entirely of salt. The hotel, built-in 1998 by Juan Quesada Valda, must be on your bucket list because of its recuperative benefits. Walls, ceiling, sculptures, floor, and majority of the furniture are made of salt. The hotel with its chalk-white huts blends seamlessly in its dramatic surroundings.
The salt rooms are elegant and traditional with a contemporary touch. The sodium-themed hotel has a golf course, saltwater baths, spa, restaurants, and bar. The hotel is perfectly situated to explore the Solar de Uyuni – the largest salt flat in the world.
Price per night – From $150 per night
So which of one of these unique hotels inspires you to start saving, so t
