Most of the time, we vacation for the destination. Whether we are going to see the ancient pyramids of Egypt or the stunning beaches of California, there’s generally something about the area that compels us to visit. Other times, however, it’s worth vacationing just to stay in certain accommodations.
It may sound strange at first, but there are some hotels and lodges out there that are actually landmarks in and of themselves. Some of them, it turns out, you may just have to see to believe. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top ten unique vacation accommodations that you won’t actually believe exist. You’re sure to find more than one surprising option.
Let’s begin!
1. Hotel Casanus
We get it. Staying inside a metal hotel shaped like a human intestine isn’t everyone’s idea of a dream vacation. Still, Hotel Casanus, located near Antwerp, Belgium, is quite literally a one-of-a-kind place.
If it’s your goal to visit the world’s most unique accommodations, there’s no way you can leave this hotel off your list. Consider going if you want something a little bit different (although it’s understandable if you don’t have much of an appetite while you’re there).
2. Dog Bark Park Inn
Perhaps the cutest hotel we’ve seen, Dog Bark Park Inn in Cottonwood, Idaho is a must see for anyone traveling through the American West. The hotel is built in the shape of a giant beagle and stands guard over the city of Cottonwood.
Though the city itself has a population less than 1,000 people, the hotel is a popular tourist attraction for those seeking unconventional accommodations. Furthermore, though the hotel may not look like much, it offers quality rooming and fairly-priced souvenirs.
3. Ice Hotel
The Ice Hotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden is certainly unlike any other travel accommodation we’ve ever seen. Because the structure is made completely of ice, it must be rebuilt every year. This means that even if you stay in the hotel one year, you can expect a completely new design the next.
If you don’t mind a fair amount of ice and snow, this hotel is for you. And if you’re really into ice hotels, you should certainly visit a few more on our list of the best ice hotels in the world.
4. Hotel Marques de Riscal
You might have heard the name Frank Gehry—the guy who designed the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
As it turns out, he also designed this strange-looking hotel in Elciego, Spain. Built in modernist fashion, it’s certainly worth a double take. Though it may look crazy on the outside, it’s got all the world’s modern hotel conveniences on the inside.
In short, it’s certainly worth staying in if you take a trip to Spain.
5. Crane Hotel
Located in Faralda, Amsterdam, this hotel served as an industrial crane from the late nineteenth to the late twentieth centuries.
Today, it is home to three rooms and offers guests the unique experience of bungie-jumping off the crane’s top (165 feet high).
6. Tschuggen Grand Hotel
One hotel in Arosa, Switzerland is sure to catch any visitor’s attention.The hotel features a unique wedge-shaped design with multiple green buildings sticking up from a snowy expanse. Truly, it’s a sight that you must see to believe.
As if this weren’t enough, the hotel also offers private railway transportation to a nearby ski resort.In short, it’s highly unlikely you’ll ever see another travel accommodation such as this one.
7. Propeller Island City Lodge
What’s weirder than this post modernist lodge in Berlin, Germany? We’re not sure. From coffin-shaped beds to upside down rooms, Propeller Island City Lodge has it all.
Built as an art project to test the limits of architectural expression, Propeller Island City Lodge tests architectural expression and makes a unique environment for guests of all ages. Without a doubt, this is one hotel that’s worth the trip if you’re in Germany.
8. Sunrise Kempinski Hotel
Located near Beijing, China, this hotel is a must-see for any unique hotel enthusiasts. Designed in the shape of a rising sun, the hotel serves as a monument to China’s growing economic superiority throughout Asia and the world.
This symbolic building serves as a reminder of times long gone and as a wish for brighter times ahead. If you plan on visiting China any time soon, this hotel should certainly be on your bucket list.
9. Sandcastle Hotel
On the beaches of Weymouth, UK is a sandcastle hotel that’s as crazy as it sounds. The hotel, which costs fifteen dollars a night, is made completely of sand.
Of course, this means that you’ll be sleeping on sand, as well. Though the hotel doesn’t have a roof, it’s a unique stay and offers a one-of-a-kind experience for interested travelers.
10. Keemala Phucket
Located in near Patong Beach in Thailand, the Keemala Phucket (or Keemala Resort) offers visitors the opportunity to stay the night in birdcage-themed rooms.
With several room designs based off local customs and lore, this resort provides an interesting stay for anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime hotel experience.
