A hotel room is meant to be your home away from home on holiday or on business. A nice refuge from your every day where you can rest, play or work on the go where you don’t have to think twice about doing your own cooking and cleaning. A decent hotel with comfy beds, pillows and a fully stocked mini fridge (bonus!) can really add to the overall mood of your trip. But what if you’re like me – an experience junkie – and want to up the ante a little bit? Any hotel room can have a bed and pillows, why not have a little fun, and add colour, or a theme or live underwater with tropical fish?
Scratch everything you know about staying abroad and erase any memory of cheap motels with four walls on the side of the road. Forget gaudy carpet patterns on the floor, stiff bed sheets, and standard boring wallpaper because this list of incredible hotel rooms from around the world will blow you away.
Imagine staying in any one of these fantasy rooms – if that’s what you can even call them! They’re more like unusual spaces done up to mesmerize and stun the guests who stay in them. No fear of heights? Then #11 tucked away high up in the Italian Alps in a scene straight out of a James Bond movie is for you. Something a little more (okay, a TON MORE) luxurious? Then #1 is way up your alley with its opulent finishings and stunning display of color and style. Love dogs? There’s a beagle you and three of your nearest and dearest can stay at, in 26.
There is no shortage of suites, ranging from affordable to outrageous, each with their own mind-blowing set of sometimes strange, and other times regal features that are meant to delight the guests they cater to. But the real question is, how on earth do you decide which one to stay at?
Take a look to see 39 of the most incredible hotel rooms in the world.
39. The Mirrorcube Treehotel, Sverige, Sweden
Guests can expect to have all their childhood treehouse fantasies come true in this hideaway among the trees. The outside is made of mirrors that provide camouflage by reflecting the surroundings. It can accommodate two people and has a rooftop terrace. There is a toilet and no shower, but of course, has wifi and sprawling views as far as the eye can see!
38. The Penthouse in Four Seasons George V, Paris, France
Every frill is included in this one. With sweeping 360-degree views of the city including the iconic Eiffel Tower as the backdrop to your morning coffee on the terrace, guests get to enjoy the finer things in life in this majestic penthouse. It’s 1,630 sq. ft. with a full marble bathroom plus guest powder room, a king sized bed, infinity bath and dressing room. Supreme luxury.
37. Martin’s Patershof Church Hotel, Mechelen, Belgium
The incredible architecture of the church lends itself beautifully as a hotel. With its stained glass, towering archways and ample space, the suites in this neo-gothic church built in 1231, provide a cozy, warm and charming ambience for guests looking for an out-of-the-ordinary stay. It’s the perfect combination of whimsy, history and architectural glory.
36. The Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia
As if Australia wasn’t down under enough, this hotel is on an island off the southwest coast for an even more remote and rugged experience! A true luxury lodge, the unique space occupies a stretch of the coast that offers completely uninterrupted views of the island’s wild and untouched wilderness. Even though it’s remote, all the trappings are luxurious and ultra modern, providing the perfect platform to retreat and escape.
35. Free Spirit Spheres, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Cool and quirky, these spherical treehouses are made of wood and fibreglass, suspended from the trees in the Pacific Northwest on Vancouver Island. The idea is to approach innovation with a focus on sustainability and fitting in with nature. Although very eco-oriented, inside they are designed to be open-concept and are very ergonomnic.
34. Kokopelli’s Cave, New Mexico, United States
Built into the vertical cliffs of Tertiary Ojo Almo, this manmade Flintstones-like cave is carved 70 feet below the surface. It was meant to be a unique office for a geologist but has since become a 1,700 sq. ft. bed and breakfast that has a master bedroom, living area, dining area, kitchen, bathroom and waterfall shower and jacuzzi. There are two porches that provide a stunning view of the southwest sunset over the La Plata river. Has a caver ever sounded this good?
33. La Cabane en l’Air, Multiple Locations, France
What’s better than one treehouse? A connecting network of them hanging amidst the greenery of the French landscape. Elegantly designed, there are over 100 to choose from each with their own rope bridge perched high in the trees. They appear to be a little “hut” like, but inside they are perfect for a family or sweet escape.
32. Sala Silvermine Hotel, Sala, Sweden
Tucked away 155 meters underground, this is for those with a fear of heights. In the deepest hotel room on the planet, which is an old mine that took miners ten years to carve out, of course, everything is furnished with silver. You can forget about finding a cell phone signal – an intercom is used to contact staff that has to be called on to bring down visitors and bring them back up.
31. The Capsule Hotel, Japan
I can’t imagine anyone would want to set up shop here for an extended amount of time, but for a night or two when you’re just in and out of town, I think this would be a must-have experience – if you’re not claustrophobic. Compact and futuristic, it was designed for unexpected last minute stay. Missed the last train? No sweat.
30. Aescher Cliff, Weissbad, Switzerland
A staggering 65% of Switzerland comprises the Alps. Why not soak in all the beauty from a cozy restaurant (once a guesthouse) nestled into the side of a cliff? Open only during summer months, and best accessed by cable car, the 107-year-old hidden gem is known for their rosti (Swiss hash browns) sausage and beer.
29. Attrap Reves, Allauch, France
“Book a bubble” and get to live in one while in the great wilderness. These famous bubbles keep out humidity and insects (perfect for the glamper) and offer a pretty luxurious setting without being too far removed from nature. Some bubbles even include a Jacuzzi! (Attrap Reves, Allauch, France)
28. Hằng Nga Guesthouse a.k.a ‘Crazy House,’ Da Lat, Vietnam
Feeling like you want something straight out of Alice and Wonderland? Then this trippy, warped looking castle has your name all over it. It’s wonky architecture, bright colours and bold shapes really make this place stand out. Plus, there are a few themed rooms to keep things interesting, like the Termite Room and The Kangaroo Room (yes please).
27. Clink Hostel, London, England
Here’s one that’s a little out of the norm. Welcome to an old courthouse that’s been transformed into a hostel. It comes complete with prison cells that have been refreshed into sleeping quarters for visitors who want to know what it feels like to spend a night in an old prison. It’s a historical building with lots of whimsy – I mean, the courtroom has been transformed into a TV lounge and workspace! How oddly wonderful is that?
26. Dog Bark Park Inn, Idaho, United States
Time to tick off something crazy on your bucket list. If you’ve ever dreamed about staying over in the world’s largest beagle, this is it. Owned and operated by a pair of chainsaw artists (they use chainsaws to sculpt out of wood – how wild is that?!) they have a humble abode that sleeps four during the lodging season. And yep, it sure is a building that looks like a beagle.
25. The Cockpit Suite at Jumbo Stay, Sweden
This unique hotel has been converted from an airplane and it’s grounded at the airport. The most popular is the cockpit suite where guests can stay overnight and enjoy panoramic views of the airport. A shower is included in the room, along with a cafe and bar for all the guests on board.
24. The Boot, Tasman, New Zealand
Just like the fairy tale about an old woman who lived in a boot, now you too can live in one (but you can be any age and any gender). It’s a bed and breakfast furnished for two on 2.4 hectares of garden! There’s an outside fireplace, no TV and offers a tranquil and secluded setting that’s the perfect romantic hideaway.
http://truenz.co.nz/bed-and-breakfast/nelson/the-boot-at-jester-house.
23. The Royal Penthouse Suite at the Hotel President Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland
Hailed as the largest hotel suite in Europe, this grandiose 1,680 sq. m. penthouse occupies the entire top floor of the Hotel President Winston. There’s a wrap-around terrace that offers uncompromised views of Lake Geneva with a telescope to look at the stars. Not to mention the fitness room that comes with it, plus the panic room, bulletproof glass and 12 marble bathrooms.
22. Montana Magica Lodge, Panguipulli, Chile
This is truly at the intersection of dreams and reality. At first glance, it looks like a hobbit hole on steroids, equipped with a rope bridge (its only access point) and a mini waterfall shooting from the top and cascading down the side. It resembles a termite hill except it’s covered in lush green vegetation and seems so much more inviting! The fantastical element is strong on this one, and there’s no denying the curiosity surround this beautiful space.
21. Das Pak Hotel, Linz, Austria
A perfect example up upcycling! Once you get over the fact that these are sewer pipes (totally cleaned out and renovated, of course!) you realize how ergonomic the idea and design is. How adorable would it be to have a little neighbourhood of these? There are, however, only 5 for now and they are on the Danube River. Also, it’s a ‘pay as you wish’ business model, making a stay in these little pipe pods even more appealing!
20. The Witchery By The Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may have already seen rooms from this witchy looking castle in a steamy love scene. It’s antiquey but luxurious with a little bit of seediness. The ornate tapestries and decadent finishings are as alluring as they are magical. Plus, the price includes a bottle of champagne and a breakfast hamper. Perfectly debaucherous!
19. VIP Suite in Palacio de Sal, Bolivia
High on my bucket list is Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flats where visitors revel in taking advantage of its endless photo opportunities. Located smack dab in the middle of this natural phenomenon is the hotel and – you guessed it – it’s made of salt. So are the walls, tables, chairs and beds! And, there’s a strict no licking the walls rule! Makes sense.
18. Glass Igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
While I’ve never been a fan of cold and ice, this one might change my mind. Lie in bed snuggled up and cozy, while you gaze out through the glass dome to watch the northern lights (let’s not forget the stars and sunrise and moon and everything in between…). Each igloo has a bed, shower and toilet and looks very warm considering you’re in the middle of the Arctic.
17. V8 Hotel, Stuttgart, Germany
Car lovers, you might find your hearts racing for this one. Set up in a former state airport, this hotel has 34 rooms themed around motorcars and sport. There’s a petrol pump and a vintage car converted into a comfy looking bed. Even the couch and table fit into the theme, and the walls match too. Apparently, the v12 Mercedes suite is where it’s at though, spread out over four floors with stunning panoramic views of the sprawling landscape.
16. The Kingpin Suite at the Palms Resort, Las Vegas, United States
It’s pretty hard to get bored in Las Vegas, but if you do, this is the room you want. You can’t possibly feel hard-pressed to find something to do when you can have a party in a room like this. With two full bowling alleys, a pool table, theatre sized tv screen, bar and private butler service, it’s a 24/7 high roller party in this room!
15. The Hardwood Suite at the Palms Resort, Las Vegas, United States
And for the ballers and shot callers, having an indoor basketball court is exactly what you never knew you needed. Equipped with a full-sized locker room plus living room, dining room and bedrooms, you might just never have to leave. Or at least, you’ll be able to improve your game ten-fold because you can invite ANY team you want to the $20,000 a night suite and learn a thing or two!
14. The Lighthouse at No Man’s Fort, Portsmouth, England
Reached only by ferry, this 23-room hotel is a lighthouse. Each room offers neverending sea views as far as the eye can see. There are five bars, rooftop hot tubs, a cabaret club and a fire pit. Well, at least you’ll never get lost!
13. Underwater Suite at the Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island, Maldives
This one is still under construction, but the suspense is real! It’s cost $15 million dollars to build but sounds like a dream. Imagine being able to live underwater, because that’s what it’s going to be. Visitors will be able to spend the night in an underwater suite that is like staying in a large luxurious aquarium. There will be a gym, kitchen, and dining deck. #dreambig
12. Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya
I’ve had some pretty cool roommates here and there over the years, but I think these long-necked creatures might just be the best ones yet! Set on 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest, this stunning manor brings its visitors back in time to the 1930s. Plus, having breakfast and tea while a giraffe casually pops in to say hi isn’t too shabby either. I don’t think I’d ever want to leave!
11. Bivacco Gervasutti, Mont Blanc, Italy
Only for the brave of heart, this capsule hotel looks like it was dropped in the middle of nowhere from the future. It’s named after the Italian alpine climber and although it looks precariously balanced, it is in fact perfectly safe and cozy. The 12-person hotel is located 9,300 feet above sea level, perched on the Frebouze Glacier. It even has wifi!
10. Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
The world famous hotel with art exhibition is reborn EVERY winter in the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, located 100 km north of the Arctic Circle on the Torne River. It’s, uh, a little cold so bring warm clothing, socks and pyjamas because the temperature drops well below zero. If you feel like throwing your wedding up here, you totally can, and you get a sleeping bag for two.
9. Costa Verde, Costa Rica
Looking for a little greenery in your life? This 70-room hotel is nestled away in the jungle canopy, each room with its own breathtaking view of the Manuel Antonia National Park and the Pacific Ocean. The really cool part, however, is the two-bedroom space in a fully refurbished 1965 Boeing 727 airplane, equipped with all the comforts of home. You can even sit on the terrace and make friends with your monkey and toucan neighbors.
8. Crane Hotel Faralda, Amsterdam, Holland
If you’re looking for a room with a view I think this one is up there. Situated in the River Ij and only minutes away from the city centre, this unusual option offers three uber luxurious suites – in a crane! While it may not be the first spot you think of when you’re looking for somewhere to stay, the coolness factor attracts international DJs and fashion brands who love this unique hotel space. Sign me up!
7. Royal Two Bedroom Suite at The Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
Dubai is the chic playground (perhaps more apt, “sandbox”) for the ultra-rich to splurge and enjoy, and this suite is nothing short of opulent. With a cinema room, Jacuzzis, and 14 types of pillows to choose from (!!!!) every need and desire is catered to. Plus, there’s a small army of butlers on hand, so for $27,000 USD a night, your wish is the staff’s command.
6. The Penthouse Suite at The Hôtel Martinez Cannes by Hyatt, Cannes, France
Cannes drums up visions of movie stars and sandy beaches with swaying palms in the background and with this 17,976 sq. ft. penthouse, you can play the part easily. The $41,000 a night suite boasts four master bedrooms, two living rooms and two dining rooms. And with its private terrace in the middle of all the action, surely this spot has seen its fair share of Hollywood tomfoolery.
5. The Shahi Mahal Presidential Suite at The Raj Palace Hotel, Jaipur, India
In this restored ancient royal castle, if the sparkling Presidential suite glimmers enough for the Maharaja, surely anyone can stay there too. With six bedrooms, a dining room, theatre, library, and kitchen staff for four floors, this suite is finished in gold leaf, ivory and silver with dangling chandeliers. It doesn’t get more regal than this.
4. Hotel Casanus, Antwerp, Belgium
Perhaps the strangest (and maybe the grossest…), visitors have the chance to stay in a piece of art. It’s a giant sculpture of the human intestine, with the sphincter included. It is a vital part of the human digestive system, and now you can stay in it! Dutch Artist Joep Van Lieshout created it and even added some veins on the outside for a more realistic effect. Don’t worry, it’s pretty inside!
3. The Ty Warner Penthouse at The Four Seasons Hotel, New York City, United States
Fabulously centred in the heart of Manhattan, this elite, sky scraping suite is on the 52nd floor of the Four Seasons Hotel. There is only one bedroom, but with a private spa that can be converted into another room upon request, plus four balconies and wildly eclectic ornate furnishings that include exotic calfskin leather, Venetian velvet, Chinese onyx, Japanese silk – this is still a “castle in the clouds.”
2. The Penthouse Suite at The Mark Hotel, New York City, United States
#4
Once ranked #1 in The World’s 100 Best City Hotels by Swiss magazine Bilanz, this space is quite possibly le creme de la creme. For $86,000 a night, guests can enjoy the five-bedroom, duplex penthouse with a living room and grand piano plus a 2,500 sq. ft. rooftop terrace. Room service means a chef is at your beck and call, as well as Bergdorf Goodman tailoring and in-suite hairstyling from the Frederic Fekkai Salon – all 24/7.
1. La Ville Du Comte Suite in The 13, Macau, China
Straight into the lap of luxury and like a scene out of Scarface, this over-the-top Baroque style room (with its own elevator to ensure the privacy of guests…) takes up 2,000 square feet and also comes with 24/7 butler service, a 6-8 person Roman bath, faceted chrome furniture and Rolls Royce transportation.
Are you wowed? Feel like taking a trip around the world to stay in one or 18 of these astounding places straight out of a fairy tale? Yeah me too. Might only be able to go to some of these in my dreams, but one can always hope!
