20 Unique Stay Options: Treehouses, Ice Hotels, Castles, and More

Looking for unique stay options can turn an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure. From treehouses to ice hotels and castles, some stays go beyond typical hotels.

Exploring unusual accommodations gives travelers a mix of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. These options often include incredible views, creative designs, and immersive experiences that make every stay special.

Why Choose a Unique Stay

Escape from Ordinary Hotels

Standard hotels can feel predictable. Unique stays offer an extraordinary environment, from sleeping in a tree to floating underwater.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Special moments like birthdays or anniversaries feel more memorable in unusual settings such as castles or luxury glamping sites.

Adventure and Novelty

These stays provide adventure, whether it’s hiking to a mountain cabin, staying in an ice hotel, or enjoying a floating villa.

Social Media and Memorable Trips

Sharing photos from these unique locations allows travelers to capture stories that last a lifetime.

Treehouses: Sleeping Among the Trees

Features and Benefits

Treehouse hotels offer elevated views, privacy, and a close connection with nature. They are perfect for escaping city life.

Popular Locations

Treehouse stays are popular in Costa Rica, Thailand, and the United States, often set in lush forests or near rivers.

Example Stays

Finca Bellavista, Costa Rica – Eco-friendly treehouse village with panoramic views.

Treehotel, Sweden – Modern treehouse designs surrounded by nature.

Tips for Staying

Check accessibility and local weather before booking. Some treehouses require climbing stairs or walking trails.

Ice Hotels: Sleeping in a Winter Wonderland

Features and Benefits

Ice hotels provide a magical experience with sculpted ice rooms, unique lighting, and winter-themed décor.

Popular Locations

Sweden, Norway, and Finland are well-known for their ice hotel experiences, with rooms reconstructed annually.

Example Stays

ICEHOTEL, Sweden – Iconic ice suites with ice art and cozy thermal sleeping bags.

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Norway – Arctic ice hotel with outdoor activities nearby.

Tips for Staying

Wear thermal clothing, book early, and prepare for limited indoor heating.

Castles and Historical Homes

Features and Benefits

Castle stays offer luxury, history, and grandeur, letting travelers sleep in regal surroundings.

Popular Locations

Ireland, Scotland, and France have a rich collection of castle accommodations.

Example Stays

Ashford Castle, Ireland – Historic castle with luxury suites and gardens.

Château de Bagnols, France – Medieval castle with elegant rooms.

Tips for Staying

Check for dress codes, seasonal events, and meal options available on-site.

Overwater and Underwater Hotels

Features and Benefits

These accommodations offer waterfront views, marine life encounters, and a sense of exclusivity.

Popular Locations

The Maldives, Bora Bora, and Dubai are top destinations for overwater and underwater hotels.

Example Stays

Conrad Maldives – Overwater villas with private pools.

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai – Underwater suites with aquarium views.

Tips for Staying

Book early, prepare for higher costs, and check if meals and activities are included.

Tiny Homes and Cabin Retreats

Features and Benefits

Tiny homes and cabins provide cozy, budget-friendly, and sustainable stays.

Popular Locations

They are widespread in the USA, Europe, and Asia, often in scenic or rural settings.

Example Stays

Tiny House, California – Compact, modern tiny homes in scenic locations.

Cabin Retreats, Switzerland – Secluded mountain cabins with stunning views.

Tips for Staying

Plan for limited space and check available amenities such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Unique Adventure Stays

Cave Hotels

Experience natural architecture in Turkey and Cappadocia, staying in rooms carved from rock.

Luxury Glamping

Glamping tents, yurts, and safari-style accommodations offer comfort with an outdoor experience.

Airstreams and Unusual Vehicles

Stay in refurbished vehicles for road trips with comfort, including kitchens and beds.

How to Choose the Right Unique Stay

Budget Considerations

Average costs vary widely. Some stays are luxury-focused, while others are more affordable.

Travel Logistics

Check accessibility, transport options, and seasonal availability to plan effectively.

Amenities and Comfort

Consider Wi-Fi, meal availability, private bathrooms, and heating or cooling facilities.

Experience Type

Choose based on your goal: adventure, relaxation, romance, or cultural immersion.

Booking and Safety Tips

Trusted Booking Platforms

Sites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and specialized boutique sites provide verified listings.

Safety Precautions

Check local regulations, emergency contacts, and insurance coverage before traveling.

Reviews and Ratings

Read verified reviews to ensure the quality and authenticity of the stay.

Making the Most of Your Unique Stay

Planning Activities Around the Stay

Local tours, hiking, photography, and cultural experiences can enhance the trip.

Enhancing the Experience

Plan according to the weather, seasonal events, and timing to enjoy the location fully.

Capturing Memories

Use photography, journaling, or social media to record unique moments.

20 Unique Stay Options Summary List

Treehouse in Costa Rica

Ice Hotel in Sweden

Castle Hotel in Scotland

Overwater Villa in the Maldives

Underwater Hotel in Dubai

Tiny Home in the USA

Luxury Yurt in Mongolia

Cave Hotel in Turkey

Safari Glamping in Kenya

Airstream Stay in California

Floating Cabin in Norway

Glass Igloo in Finland

Hobbit House in New Zealand

Lighthouse Stay in Ireland

Houseboat in Amsterdam

Desert Camp in the UAE

Jungle Lodge in Thailand

Mountain Chalet in Switzerland

Windmill Stay in Netherlands

Eco Dome in Iceland

Experience the Magic of Unique Stays

From treehouse hotels to ice hotels, castle stays, and luxury glamping, travelers can discover unforgettable experiences. Choosing these unique stay options allows for adventure, comfort, and memorable moments while exploring the world safely and creatively.

Sources

Booking.com 

Airbnb 

Conrad Hotels & Resorts