We’ve all checked into a run‑of‑the‑mill chain at some point—think Holiday Inn or similar. Yet a vacation should feel like a story, brimming with excitement, novelty, and a dash of wonder from the moment you step through the door. In this guide we’ll unveil the top 10 unusual hotels that transform a simple night’s sleep into a full‑blown adventure, each one a destination in its own right.

Top 10 Unusual Hotels Overview

10 The Giraffe Manor: Nairobi, Kenya

Constructed in 1932 by Sir David Duncan, the Giraffe Manor was modeled after a classic Scottish hunting lodge and perched on a sprawling 115‑acre estate overlooking Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Ngong Hills. The manor opened its doors as a hotel in 1984, and shortly thereafter the Rothschild giraffes, displaced from their natural habitat, were invited to make the grounds their new home. Guests at this unique sanctuary can watch the gentle giants saunter up to their windows, where they’ll often poke their long necks inside for a friendly hand‑feed or an unforgettable photo‑op. Staying here truly feels like sharing a breakfast table with wildlife.

9 The Library Hotel: Manhattan, New York

For bibliophiles and curious minds, the Library Hotel turns the very concept of a lodging into a literary pilgrimage. Each of the ten floors is dedicated to one of the main Dewey Decimal Classification categories—arts, religion, philosophy, mathematics, and more—so you can literally sleep among the subjects you love. The rooms are stocked with curated books that match the floor’s theme, allowing you to curl up with a good read that perfectly complements the décor. It’s a quiet haven for anyone who’d rather spend a night surrounded by knowledge than a night of ordinary hotel buzz.

8 Karostas Cietums Hotel: Liepaja, Latvia

Born out of a Russian‑era prison, Karostas Cietums retains its stark, foreboding atmosphere for those daring enough to spend a night within its stone walls. Upon arrival, guests are handcuffed, escorted to their cell, stripped of personal belongings, and served the minimal fare of bread and water. The sleeping platform is a simple wooden or iron mattress, echoing the austere conditions of the past. Open only from May 1 to October 1 each year, the hotel is rumored to be haunted; faint whispers and unexplained noises echo through the corridors, offering an authentic (and slightly chilling) glimpse into the lives of former inmates.

7 Utter Inn: Lake Malaren, Sweden

The Utter Inn is the brainchild of artist Mikael Genberg, a whimsical art project that masquerades as a bright red garden shed floating on the tranquil waters of Lake Mälaren. The living quarters sit three metres beneath the lake’s surface, accessed via a sturdy ladder. Panoramic windows circle the underwater bedroom, granting guests an uninterrupted view of fish gliding by. Above the water, a modest deck invites you to lounge, and a rowboat is provided for leisurely exploration of the lake or nearby island. It’s a perfect blend of minimalist design and immersive nature.

6 Propeller Island City Lodge: Berlin, Germany

Artist Lars Stroschen’s Propeller Island City Lodge turns each room into a surreal playground. One suite features a “flying” bed that seems to levitate over slanted floors, while another is an “upside‑down” space where every piece of furniture clings to the ceiling, and a hidden trapdoor leads you down to the sleeping area. There’s also a padded chamber entirely lined in plush green leather, and for the goth‑inclined, a coffin‑styled bedroom where you can rest among the macabre. Every stay promises a different, mind‑bending experience.

5 Hotel de Glace: Quebec, Canada

Each December, a team of visionary artists erects a temporary ice palace in Quebec, open from January 7 through March 27. Constructed from roughly 400 tons of ice and a staggering 12,000 tons of snow, every element—from the grand fireplaces to the drinking glasses—is sculpted from frozen water. Despite the icy surroundings, the hotel offers heated washrooms and outdoor hot tubs for a comforting contrast. A standout feature is its wedding chapel, which has earned a reputation as one of the top ten wedding venues worldwide, making it a frosty yet romantic setting for vows.

4 Das Park Hotel: Austria, Austria

Das Park transforms massive concrete sewer tubes—normally seen on construction sites—into cool, minimalist sleeping pods. Each tube weighs about 9.5 tons and requires only a light coat of varnish to protect the cement from moisture. Austrian artist Thomas Latzel Ochoa decorates the interiors, softening the industrial feel with creative touches. The concrete stays naturally cool, providing an ideal summer retreat. Open from May to October, guests pay what they feel the experience was worth, embracing a flexible “pay‑what‑you‑think‑it‑was‑worth” model.

3 V8 Hotel: Baden‑Württemberg, Germany

The V8 Hotel caters to automotive aficionados, located at the city’s inaugural airport. Every room celebrates a different motoring theme—one mimics a Mercedes‑Benz car wash, another recreates a Morris Minor garage, and a third channels the iconic Route 66 vibe. Beds are designed to echo the room’s concept, looking like a stretch of road or a sleek vehicle. From reception to the restaurant, the entire property is drenched in car memorabilia, making it a true pilgrimage for gearheads.

2 Capsule Hotel: The Hague, Netherlands

Set on an oil‑rig‑style platform, the bright orange Capsule Hotel offers compact survival pods for up to three guests. Each pod supplies a basic sleeping bag, while a premium “silk‑lined” option adds luxurious bedding. Packages range from a James Bond‑inspired basic survival experience to an upgraded version that includes a full library of 007 films, silk sheets, champagne, and even a disco ball. Bikes are provided for city exploration, though the constant sway of the pods may be disorienting for those prone to seasickness.

1 Hang Nga Hotel: Da Lat, Vietnam

Nicknamed the “Crazy House,” Hang Nga Hotel is a whimsical, fairy‑tale‑like structure tucked into the hills of Da Lat. Its architecture defies convention, featuring a maze of twisting corridors, quirky cubbyholes, and bridges that connect rooms in unexpected ways. Inside, you’ll discover caged birds, intricate spider‑web installations, oversized animal sculptures, and other curiosities that evoke a surreal, storybook atmosphere. It’s a place where every turn feels like stepping deeper into an imaginative dreamscape.

When you think of a hotel stay, you probably picture a comfy bed, a tidy bathroom and maybe a continental breakfast. Yet 10 hotels offer experiences that push the boundaries of luxury, whimsy, and outright oddness. From goldfish roommates to robot concierges, these resorts have turned the idea of “extras” into an art form, delivering unforgettable moments that guests will be talking about for years.

10 hotels offer unforgettable over‑the‑top experiences

10 Happy Guest Lodge

The moniker says it all: at the Happy Guest Lodge in Warrington, United Kingdom, the staff are devoted to making every visitor feel genuinely pleased. Their dedication runs so deep that they’ll even provide a scaly sidekick for the night. If a guest feels a little lonely, the hotel will place a goldfish named “Happy” in the room for a modest fee of £5.

This fin‑tastic service is billed as a comforting companion that brings joy, a listening ear, and unconditional affection after a long day of travel. The hotel’s website proudly claims that the world‑renowned goldfish creates a uniquely pleasant atmosphere, and travelers can reserve Happy ahead of time to ensure the little swimmer is waiting upon arrival.

Why a goldfish, you ask? The owner believes that the gentle presence of a fish offers calm, a sounding board, and a dash of unconditional love. Some guests even report missing Happy between stays, but fear not—Happy (or a stand‑in) will be ready for your next visit.

In short, the Happy Guest Lodge turns a simple aquatic pet into an unforgettable part of the guest experience, proving that even the smallest creature can make a big splash in hospitality.

9 Family Pillow Fight Package

Mix the nostalgic chaos of a slumber party with the polished service of a five‑star resort, and you get the Family Pillow Fight Package at the Ritz‑Carlton in Palm Beach, Florida. This whimsical offering is designed for families who want to reconnect over a flurry of feathers and giggles.

Priced at $60, the bundle includes a sack of luxurious satin pillows, a curated CD of upbeat tracks, and a booklet of family‑friendly games. The CD is packed with energizing tunes like “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” guaranteeing that the pillow‑war will be anything but dull.

While the price may raise eyebrows, the Ritz‑Carlton believes the experience fosters genuine bonding, turning a simple pillow fight into a memorable family tradition that guests will cherish long after the feathers settle.

8 Swimsuit Vending Machines

Ever rushed to a vacation and realized you left your bathing suit behind? The Standard Hotel chain has solved that panic with sleek vending machines that dispense high‑quality swimwear on demand. Forget the dreaded birthday‑suit swim or a sub‑par gift‑shop purchase.

The machines stock reputable brands such as Quiksilver, offering a range of styles for both men and women. Sizes and colors cater to every preference, and the designs reflect the hotel’s own aesthetic, ensuring you look as stylish as the property itself.

For a touch of local flair, the vending unit prints nearby hot‑spot recommendations on the waistband, guiding guests to the best post‑pool activities. Prices start at $75, making it a convenient—if not cheap—solution for the forgetful traveler.

7 Dog Surfing Lessons

The Su’ruff Camp at Loews Coronado Bay Resort & Spa in San Diego gives your four‑legged friend a chance to ride the waves. This specialized surf academy teaches dogs of all breeds to balance on a board, turning your pooch into a bona fide wave‑rider.

Each year the resort hosts a dog‑surfing contest, where canines showcase their newfound skills and vie for the title of best surfing pooch. Beyond the surf lessons, Loews pampers pets with walkers, sitters, and even a dedicated room‑service menu featuring canine delicacies.

6 Fragrance Butler

Rosewood Hotels understand that a signature scent can elevate a stay, especially when airline liquid restrictions limit what travelers can bring on board. To solve this, they’ve introduced a 24‑hour fragrance‑butler service that supplies guests with premium bottled perfumes and colognes.

The butler’s tray showcases elite houses such as Hermès, Chanel, Givenchy, and Dior. Each Rosewood property curates a scent collection that mirrors its locale, allowing guests to select a fragrance that resonates with the surrounding environment.

When a guest wishes to spritz a particular aroma, a quick call summons the butler, who arrives with a silver tray, ready to fulfill the request any hour of the day. It’s a luxe touch that turns a simple scent into a bespoke experience.

5 Bird Delivers Engagement Ring

At Ireland’s historic Ashford Castle, lovebirds can enlist an unexpected winged messenger to seal the deal. Dingle, a majestic European eagle‑owl who has called the grounds home since 1999, can be hired to carry an engagement ring straight to the hopeful bride‑to‑be.

The castle’s expansive falconry school lets guests explore ancient bird‑of‑prey traditions, but Dingle’s most popular role is his romantic delivery service. Guests can watch the owl swoop down during a candlelit dinner, adding a dramatic flourish to the proposal.

The all‑inclusive three‑night proposal package, priced around $2,000, bundles a couples’ massage, champagne, a private boat ride, and the unforgettable moment of Dingle presenting the ring. It’s a high‑end, limited‑availability experience that makes popping the question truly legendary.

4 V‑Day Haters Package

For those who dread the saccharine hype of Valentine’s Day, Night and the Time Hotels in New York have crafted an “I Hate Valentine’s Day” package that celebrates solo indulgence. The experience kicks off with a reservation for one at the upscale restaurant Serafina, where guests receive a complimentary double shot of liquor upon arrival.

If staying in is more appealing, the hotel pre‑loads the room’s entertainment system with an “adult entertainment” channel for a full 24‑hour binge. The turndown service, dubbed “Love Hurts,” features black candles, a box of tissues, two mini bottles of tequila, all‑you‑can‑eat ice cream, and a curated selection of breakup movies.

Morning after, the staff serves breakfast in bed alongside a stack of self‑help books, ensuring that even the post‑heart‑break recovery feels luxurious and comforting.

3 Best Man For Hire

South Carolina’s Wild Dunes Resort has turned wedding logistics on their head by offering a Best Man for Hire service. Recognizing that grooms often feel sidelined, the resort provides a professional wingman to ensure the groom receives the same spotlight traditionally reserved for the bride.

The hired best man handles everything from delivering a flawless speech to stepping in with emergency CPR should a wedding guest need assistance. The service is designed with a tongue‑in‑cheek sense of humor, yet it delivers serious support for the big day.

Pricing reflects the premium nature of the offering: $150 per hour, $650 for a half‑day, $1,000 for a full day, and $2,000 for an entire weekend. It’s a pricey but memorable way to guarantee the groom never feels left out.

2 Personal Oxygen Devices

Boston’s Revere Hotel has taken a breath‑of‑fresh‑air approach by selling Personal Oxygen Devices (PODs) to its guests. Though the city’s air quality is relatively clean, the hotel offers the sleek, portable bottles for those seeking an extra boost of pure oxygen during their stay.

Each POD costs $40 and contains 2.5 ounces of oxygen—enough for roughly 40 breaths, which works out to about $1 per inhale. The price may seem steep, but the convenience of a handheld oxygen source can be a lifesaver for weary travelers.

The compact 7‑inch bottle fits easily into a handbag, can be operated with one hand, and delivers a refreshing burst of clean air that revitalizes guests on the go. It’s a high‑tech, health‑focused amenity that adds a unique spin to the hotel’s service roster.

1 Robot Staff

Technology never ceases to amaze, especially at Japan’s Henn‑na Hotel, where robot staff—known as “actroids”—handle virtually every guest request. These humanoid robots check guests in, ferry luggage to rooms, and even brew coffee, mimicking the attentiveness of human concierges.

Actroids are engineered to resemble young Japanese women, complete with realistic hand gestures, facial expressions, and speech patterns. They’re programmed to giggle at jokes and can seamlessly switch between Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, ensuring clear communication with an international clientele.

Developed by Osaka University and manufactured by Kokoro—the same company behind Hello Kitty licensing—the actroids have been refined for over a decade. Their advanced software can even sense a guest’s mood, tailoring interactions to provide a truly personalized stay.

Lee DeGraw, a freelance writer with an insatiable curiosity, often finds herself tucked beside a campfire, nose buried in a good book, after experiencing the futuristic hospitality at Henn‑na.

When you think of the top 10 most talked‑about hotels, you probably picture luxury, drama, and a dash of danger. From haunted corridors that inspired iconic horror movies to bomb‑filled ballrooms that reshaped politics, each of these properties has a story that makes it far more than just a place to rest your head. Grab your passport of curiosity and let’s explore the ten most unforgettable hotels on the planet.

Top 10 Most Talked-About Hotels

10 Dreaming of The Shining

The 1980 horror classic The Shining tells the tale of a family isolated in a snow‑bound hotel, and its chilling narrative sprang from a real‑life visit by Stephen King. In the winter of 1974, King and his family were caught in a blizzard while touring Rocky Mountain National Park, forcing them to seek shelter at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado.

As the sole guests of the massive building, King awoke in the dead of night with a nightmare of his son, Joe, screaming as he fled through endless hallways. That unsettling vision spurred him to write the novel The Shining, published in 1977, which later became Stanley Kubrick’s famed film.

Kubrick altered several plot points for cinematic effect, much to King’s chagrin; the author blasted the movie as “a Cadillac with no engine.” Notably, the film’s infamous Room 237 was originally Room 217 in King’s book, and the external shots of the fictional Overlook Hotel were captured at Oregon’s Timberline Lodge.

King later produced a TV miniseries of his novel, filming it back at the Stanley Hotel. Today, the hotel proudly wears the title of “America’s most haunted hotel,” drawing ghost hunters and film fans alike. Legend has it that the ghost of chambermaid Mrs. Wilson haunts Room 217, while a former handyman named Paul is said to flicker the lights in the concert hall.

To keep the Shining legacy alive, the Stanley Hotel even loops Kubrick’s film in guest rooms, ensuring every visitor feels a shiver of the night King first set foot there.

9 War And Peace

The Grand Brighton Hotel, a stately seaside landmark, was the backdrop for a dramatic 1984 IRA bombing aimed at British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The hotel was buzzing with the Conservative Party’s annual conference when IRA operatives Patrick Magee and an accomplice checked in under false names.

They secured Room 629—just one floor above Thatcher’s suite—planting a nine‑kilogram gelignite bomb behind the bathtub wall, timed with a VCR timer to detonate 24 days later.

At 2:53 a.m. on October 12, the bomb exploded, ripping through the building, killing five people and injuring at least thirty. Remarkably, Thatcher escaped unharmed and delivered a defiant speech at the conference despite the devastation.

The IRA claimed responsibility, declaring, “Today, we were unlucky. But remember, we only have to be lucky once; you will have to be lucky always.” Police traced the bomb to Magee via fingerprints on his registration card, resulting in eight life sentences.

Following the Good Friday Agreement, Magee was released in 1999. He now collaborates with Jo Berry—daughter of Sir Anthony Berry, a victim of the blast—through the charity Building Bridges for Peace, working to resolve conflicts worldwide.

8 Pink Palace Protest

The Beverly Hills Hotel, affectionately dubbed the “Pink Palace,” has been a Hollywood icon since its 1912 debut. Its candy‑pink façade and palm‑lined grounds have hosted legends like Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack at the Polo Lounge, while Marlene Dietrich famously defied the dress code by strolling in trousers.

Hollywood royalty have also called the hotel home: Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton famously occupied Bungalow 5, requesting two bottles of vodka for breakfast and another two for lunch. Eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes once stored sandwiches in a nearby tree for his private consumption.

In 2014, the hotel’s new owner, the Sultan of Brunei, sparked a global boycott after Brunei enacted laws making homosexuality punishable by stoning. Celebrities such as Elton John and Ellen DeGeneres called for a boycott, and the city mayor urged a compulsory sale.

Despite the protests, the hotel’s management refused to bow, keeping doors open as demonstrations swelled. Over time, the backlash faded, and the Pink Palace reclaimed its status as a glamorous retreat for the world’s elite.

7 Picture Perfect

Since opening its doors in 1893, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City has become the most photographed hotel on the planet. Its fairy‑tale architecture draws inspiration from French Loire‑Valley châteaux, and its grand halls once hosted World War II strategists Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill as they plotted the Normandy invasion.

While Stalin was invited, he never attended, leaving the hotel’s wartime legacy intact. In recent years, the hotel has drawn a new wave of fans thanks to an unassuming antique mailbox in its lobby, which features prominently in the wildly popular Korean drama Goblin: The Lonely and Great God.

The series, viewed by 250 million people across Asia, showcases the mailbox as a pivotal plot element. As a result, Korean tourists flock to the lobby, joining official Goblin city tours to snap selfies with the now‑celebrated mailbox.

6 House Of Scandal

Cliveden House, a stately English country estate turned luxury hotel, gained notoriety when Meghan Markle stayed there before marrying Prince Harry. Yet the mansion’s glittering façade masks a darker past involving the powerful “Cliveden Set.”

In July 1961, Secretary of State for War John Profumo arrived as a guest, where he encountered osteopath Stephen Ward, who was also hosting model Christine Keeler and Soviet spy Yevgeny Ivanov. The trio’s evening together ignited a scandal that rocked Britain.

Keeler’s affair with Profumo, combined with her simultaneous liaison with Ivanov, created a security nightmare during the Cold War. Profumo denied wrongdoing, but Keeler sold the story to the press, forcing Profumo’s resignation and eventually leading to Prime Minister Harold Macmillan’s departure.

Ward was arrested on charges of living off immoral earnings and later took his own life, while Bill Astor, the estate’s owner, succumbed to stress‑related illness in 1966. The Astor family eventually handed Cliveden over to the National Trust.

Today, Cliveden operates as a five‑star hotel and spa, offering guests a chance to unwind in historic splendor for roughly £1,000 per night.

5 High Art

Renowned contemporary artist Damien Hirst designed the ultra‑exclusive “Empathy Suite” at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Priced at $100,000 per night, it claims the title of the world’s most expensive hotel room.

The two‑story, 836‑square‑meter residence boasts a 13‑seat curved bar, a media lounge for 52 guests, 24‑hour butler service, and an outdoor pool overlooking the Strip. Adding to its avant‑garde flair, the suite houses two bull sharks preserved in formaldehyde, displayed within a wall‑mounted tank.

High‑rollers with a minimum $1 million line of credit at the Palms can stay for free, making the Empathy Suite a coveted status symbol for the ultra‑wealthy.

4 Mean Queen’s Castle

In 1981, real‑estate magnates Leona and Harry Helmsley acquired the iconic Helmsley Palace Hotel in New York City. Leona, affectionately dubbed the “Queen of Her Palace,” fronted TV commercials herself, projecting an image of regal hospitality.

Behind the glamour, staff whispered about her ruthless reputation, earning her the moniker “The Queen of Mean.” She was notorious for firing anyone who crossed her, and even allegedly charged personal home repairs to the hotel to dodge taxes.

When contractors refused payment, they went public, accusing Leona of tax evasion. The ensuing trial revealed damning testimony, including a housekeeper’s claim that Leona once quipped, “Only little people pay taxes.”

Convicted on three counts of tax evasion and related offenses, Leona served 19 months in prison. She passed away at 87, leaving a $4 billion charitable legacy.

3 Cold Comfort

Deep in the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, roughly 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, the ICEHOTEL rises each winter from the Torne River’s frozen waters. Its walls, a solid meter thick, melt away each summer, only to be reborn anew with fresh artistic designs.

Each year, about 40 artists sculpt intricate ice installations. Guests can choose a “cold” room, where temperatures hover at –5 °C (23 °F), sleeping on compacted snow and ice topped with reindeer skin. For those less adventurous, a “warm” room offers a chance to admire the icy artistry without braving the chill.

2 Diana’s Final Hours

The Ritz Paris, overlooking Place Vendôme, has welcomed luminaries since 1898, including Oscar Wilde, Noël Coward, Cole Porter, and Coco Chanel. During World War II, Nazi forces seized the hotel, prompting staff to secretly stash fine wines in a hidden cave on the Left Bank.

In 1979, Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Al‑Fayed purchased the Ritz. A decade later, in 1997, Princess Diana began a romance with his son Dodi. After a dinner at the Ritz, the couple fled to Dodi’s apartment, but their driver, Henri Paul—deputy head of security at the Ritz—steered them into the Pont de l’Alma tunnel, where their car struck the 13th pillar, ending their lives.

The 2007 inquest released security‑camera footage from the hotel’s 43 cameras, capturing one of the last moments: Diana smiling in the gold‑mirrored elevator, seemingly at ease.

The Ritz closed for a four‑year, €200 million refurbishment in 2012, emerging with refreshed grandeur.

1 Death In Vegas

In late September 2017, Stephen Paddock arrived in Las Vegas and checked into Suite 135—later also Suite 134—on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel. On October 1, from that perch, he unleashed the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.

At 10:05 p.m., Paddock fired 1,100 rifle rounds into a crowd of concertgoers at a music festival, killing 58 people and wounding 851. Police stormed his suite, discovering 23 weapons, while surveillance cameras outside captured the carnage.

Paddock, a millionaire property developer whose father once featured on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, was described by neighbors as “weird.” After the massacre, he turned the gun on himself.

MGM Resorts, the hotel’s owner, filed lawsuits against over 1,000 victims, arguing it could not be held liable for the tragedy—a stance labeled by attorneys as bordering on unethical. Litigation has since been paused as the company seeks a settlement.

For true‑crime aficionados, the Mandalay Bay incident remains a grim reminder of how ordinary settings can become stages for extraordinary horror.

Tourist accommodation is a massive global industry, and you’ll spot ads for the “best hotels” everywhere you look—whether you’re scrolling on a laptop or flipping through TV channels. Most travelers chase the familiar comforts: reliable Wi‑Fi, a hearty breakfast, maybe a pool or spa. But for the truly curious wanderer, there’s a whole world of out‑of‑the‑ordinary lodging that flips the script on what a hotel can be. In this guide we spotlight 10 unusual hotels that turn a simple night’s stay into a story worth retelling.

Why 10 Unusual Hotels Capture Travelers’ Imagination

From literary hideaways to gravity‑defying crane suites, each of these properties offers a one‑of‑a‑kind experience that goes far beyond the standard room‑service checklist. Whether you’re a bookworm, a thrill‑seeker, or someone who simply loves a good Instagram moment, these 10 unusual hotels promise unforgettable memories.

10 Sleep In A Bookshelf

Many of us cherish the ritual of curling up with a good book before drifting off to dreamland. In Tokyo, that ritual becomes literal: guests can actually nestle inside a towering bookshelf for the night.

The inaugural “Book and Bed” opened its doors in Ikebukuro back in 2015, offering a quiet, off‑beat lodging option that quickly won over night‑owls and bibliophiles alike. Its popularity sparked a rapid expansion, and today six locations across Japan let travelers wander among massive shelves, pick a favorite title, and then slip into a snug “shelf” bunk for a night of reading.

Each private bunk is framed by sturdy plywood bookshelves and comes with only the essentials—basic bedding and a modest reading nook. The largest cubbyholes measure a modest 1.8 × 1.2 meters (about 6 ft × 4 ft), guaranteeing you’ll truly be “curling up” with your chosen story as the lights go out.

9 Sleep In A Toadstool Or Tree Stump

Imagine drifting off in the heart of a fairy‑tale clearing, surrounded by oversized mushrooms and gnarly tree stumps. That whimsical vision comes to life at Sweden’s Norrqvarn Hotel, perched beside the Gota Canal.

A talented chainsaw artist sculpted the quirky cabins from a blend of wood, concrete, and plywood, fashioning rooms that look straight out of a children’s storybook. Red‑spotted toadstools and weathered tree stumps serve as alternative guest quarters, each offering a playful nod to woodland fantasy.

Inside, the cabins are surprisingly comfortable, boasting enough space to accommodate up to four guests. Given Sweden’s brisk winters, these mushroom‑shaped retreats shine brightest during the warmer months, when the outdoor charm can be fully enjoyed.

8 Faralda Crane Hotel

Looking for a stay that mixes hospitality with a dash of adrenaline? In Amsterdam‑Noord, a decommissioned 45‑meter‑tall crane has been reborn as a boutique hotel, complete with a bungee‑jumping platform at its summit.

The towering crane now houses three sleek suites, each accessed via a glass‑enclosed elevator that offers panoramic city views. The very top of the structure features a private Jacuzzi and a dedicated bungee‑jumping spot, letting guests plunge into the sky after a night of luxury.

Although its industrial origins are evident, the crane now exudes high‑end elegance. Guests can even operate the crane’s swing mechanism for a personalized panoramic spin—just be prepared for a gentle sway in the wind as you take in Amsterdam’s skyline.

7 Hang Nga Guesthouse

At first glance, the Hang Nga Guesthouse in Da Lat, Vietnam, resembles something out of a nightmarish illustration. Inside, however, the design channels the whimsical spirit of “Alice in Wonderland” and other beloved children’s tales.

Locally known as the “Crazy House,” the guesthouse was imagined by a Vietnamese architect who wanted a surreal, tree‑like structure. From the outside it mimics a gnarled, ancient tree; step inside and you’ll discover a forest of spiraling staircases, winding bridges, and a maze‑like layout that feels like walking through an Escher drawing.

6 Silo Stay

From a distance, the sleek, cylindrical towers outside Christchurch, New Zealand, look like abandoned grain silos—hardly the sort of place you’d expect to find a comfy bed. Yet these shiny silos have been ingeniously transformed into award‑winning, eco‑friendly accommodation.

Each silo offers a ground‑floor living area complete with a kitchen, while the upper level houses a cozy bedroom and bathroom. The silo’s hatch opens up to reveal a star‑filled sky from the comfort of your bed, and the clever design also provides natural cooling during warmer months.

5 Sleep In A UFO

Science‑fiction lovers and curious travelers alike can now spend a night inside a UFO‑shaped haven. One such out‑of‑this‑world stay is a converted shipping container in Wales, rescued from the London Olympics and reborn as the “Spodonic’s” UFO‑themed Airbnb.

The interior boasts space‑suit décor, LED lighting, and an otherworldly ambience that makes you feel like you’ve landed on an alien planet. This isn’t the only option, however—Sweden also offers UFO‑styled rooms alongside bird‑nest and giant bauble accommodations, while a Chinese “UFOtel” lets guests enjoy underwater views from a partially submerged vessel.

4 Tree Pods In Cornwall

If you’re not squeamish about a little altitude, the Lost Meadow Tree Pods in Cornwall, UK, provide a charming, elevated retreat. These bauble‑shaped pods are suspended roughly three meters (about ten feet) above the forest floor.

The pods blend glamping comfort with a touch of early‑airship design. While a conventional bed awaits inside, the kitchen and bathroom facilities sit on the ground below. Inside each pod, a wood‑burner keeps you warm, and a movable wall panel lets you swing open to soak in forest vistas or greet the sunrise.

3 Dog Bark Park Inn

We all know the phrase “sleeping in the doghouse,” but the Dog Bark Park Inn in Central Idaho takes that idiom to a literal, larger‑than‑life level. The two‑story B‑B is fashioned in the shape of a massive beagle, affectionately nicknamed “Sweet Willy” by locals.

Crafted by a wood‑carving duo famous for their canine sculptures, the inn embraces a full‑on dog theme—from bone‑shaped biscuits served at breakfast to the wag‑tail décor throughout. The upper floor, perched atop the beagle’s snout, offers sweeping views of the surrounding Idaho landscape.

2 Volcano Hotel

Deep within Chile’s lush rainforests lies a man‑made volcano that feels straight out of a Tolkien novel. The Montana Magica Lodge, affectionately dubbed the “Volcano Hotel,” is cloaked in vines and features a dramatic water‑spout that mimics an erupting geyser.

The conical structure, while artificial, is completely covered in vegetation, with tiny gabled windows peeking out between the foliage. Guests can unwind in tree‑stump hot tubs, and a nearby rainforest golf course adds a playful twist to the natural setting.

1 Book A Sandcastle

Many of us spent childhood summers building sandcastles on beaches, dreaming of living inside those whimsical fortresses. In the Netherlands, you can now turn that day‑dream into reality by booking a stay in one of two meticulously crafted sandcastles.

These temporary sand structures, originally erected for an annual sandcastle‑making festival in the inland towns of Oss and Sneek, are reconstructed each summer. Each castle boasts elaborate turrets, moats, and sculpted sand walls that have been treated to resist crumbling. Inside, rooms are adorned with sand sculptures, while rugs line the floors to keep your feet sand‑free.

Lesley Connor, a retired Australian newspaper editor turned travel writer, shares these dreamy accommodations on her blog, inviting wanderers to relive their seaside fantasies without ever getting sand in their sheets.

We have compiled a list of some special, unique and unusual hotels from around the world. They can be found from Bavaria to Zanzibar.

Wherever your travels take you, whatever you have in mind: For almost every desire, no matter how extraordinary it may be, there is a right hotel. We take you on a journey through the world’s 10 most bizarre hotels.

10. Sand Hotel on Weymouth Beach

A dream of sand.

Let’s start our list with the most ephemeral hotels around the world – the sand hotel on Weymouth Beach in England. The place is considered a stronghold for sandcastle builder: The sand sculptures on Weymouth Beach are loud.

In addition to the impressive oversized sculptures, a hotel built by a whole team consisting of the best sand castle farmers of the world, within a week entirely of sand. 1,000 tons of sand was used in this case and a wall was formed along with high castle archway, ornaments and towers.

The interior consisted of sand beds and a complete lounge area, also formed of sand. The hotel offers a night under the stars, including sea view for £ 10 onwards. The only downer was probably that the castle builders had built no toilets. You might also like: 10 of The World’s Spectacular Beaches.

9. Salt Hotel in Bolivia Luna Salada

But after getting a taste?

Our second hotel lives up to its name. All the walls are made ​​of salt blocks, even the floor is sprinkled with salt crystals. Out of about a million salt blocks were built in the hotel, even for the furniture and ceilings, salt is used.

Located on a hill in the village of Colchani, from where one has a fantastic view of the famous salt lake. The Salt Hotel Luna Salada is unique in the world and offers one thing: Calm and relaxation amid salt you can feel your own body circulation and can let you go completely. For further relaxation there is a large saltwater pool and a sauna.

An overnight stay costs around $150, but only the experience that this hotel is worth the price.

8. Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht in Bavaria

One of the most extraordinary places to stay in Germany.

Would you like to spend the night outside in the great outdoors? Then you’ve come to the right place. But beware if you are afraid of heights, “Sleeping in the tree” is the style of hotel Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht.

Here you can sleep in so-called “Portal Edges” which are suspended from the thick branches of free standing trees. The ascent and descent is only possible with the help of rope and a previous climbing course. From up here you have the breathtaking mountain scenery Pfronten.

For $300 per night this is one of the sportiest whereabouts that you have ever seen. Here is another list, you surly like; 10 of the most romantic honeymoon places.

7. Magic Mountain Hotel in Chile

The mysterious mountain in the forest.

The Hotel Montana Magica Lodge in Chile is probably better known as Magic Mountain Hotel. It is located in Huilo Huilo Reserve in Patagonia

Here life is like in the Shire of JRR Tolkien “The Lord of the Rings”: In a grassy hill in the woods. The hotel is built like a mountain and accessible only via a suspension bridge. Surrounded by a dense forest area in Chile looks like the Montana Magica Lodge, as when they had grown themselves out of the ground. A waterfall makes its way from the top to the foot of the mountain. The construction consists exclusively of sustainable and high-quality materials and is in harmony with nature and the magic of the forest.

A single room costs the equivalent of 215 U.S. dollars. This unique hotel is not only aimed at eco-tourists, but also to adventurous travelers looking for something special. You may like; 10 must see places around the world.

6. Tree Hotel in Sweden

A night at designer tree house.

Do you have the dream since your childhood to have a private tree house? This dream can be fulfilled in northern Sweden now. In the quiet village of Harada’s, hotel room hanging up to six meters height from the trees.

The various rooms in the Tree Hotel are designed respectively by different architects. One room is called “Mirror Cube ‘and is particularly spectacular because its outer sides are completely mirrored and the rooms are completely arranged by the reflections in the landscape. To make this intervention natural as much as possible, a special ultraviolet foil was used to protect birds about to fly.

However, this is also reflected in the price, which is around $550 per night. You may also like 10 of The World’s Most Beautiful Tree Houses.

5. Ice Hotel in Sweden

Stay-cool.

We stay in Sweden and take you to where it is really cold. The Ice Hotel includes a whopping 6,000 square meters of snow and ice. Bundled up in a thermal sleeping bag you stay here on icy beds.

The ice hotel is about 13 km from Kiruna in Jukkasjärvi. Every year in November the ice hotel is newly built by artists. The ice is polished, sanded and carved up as the hotel rooms for the guests arise. Just because of this effort the hotel counts among the most exclusive in the world.

With its interior decoration made ​​of snow and ice sculptures also it is one of the most beautiful places to stay. A very special highlight is the own ice church of the hotel where even weddings take place. Because of the cold temperature, hotel for children under the age of 12 is not suitable.

A weekend costs around $1000, about 50,000 visitors each year take an ice room. Here is another list of ten coldest places around the world, you may like this.

4. Giraffe hotel in Kenya

Hotel on Safari.

A hotel with tame wild animals in their natural environment is available only in Kenya. Nowhere else in the world can you see giraffes up close?

As early as the morning, the giraffes are frolicking in the vicinity of the hotel, because they know that there will be food. On every breakfast table of guests, food for the animals is also available; the feeding is equipped at all the windows and doors of the hotel. This provides great interaction with the animals: you can pet them and take pictures and maybe you even can have one of the famous giraffe kisses.

The prices for an overnight stay vary according to season, however, lies in the higher price ranges, since it also supported by a foundation for the protection of the graceful creatures.

3. Kakslauttanen hotel in Lapland

An igloo made of glass.

The Kakslauttanen Hotel with his igloo village in Finland, where you can visit the best of deepest Finnish winter. You can experience warm igloo made ​​of glass in the winter wonderland.

Some rooms are equipped with an outdoor swimming pool. With a little luck you can admire the northern lights even at night. But even without the northern lights the view of the starry sky above northern Finland is clear from your bed.

Locally, exciting snow tours, from husky dog rides to snowmobile are available. Prices start around from $200 per night . Here is another list, you might like; 10 most beautiful villages of Europe.

2. Sala Silvermine in Sweden

Sleeping in the mine.

A suite in a silver mine or sleep in the underground: The Silvermine Underground Lounge in Sweden Sala, some 120 kilometers north-west of Stockholm, is probably the lowest-hotel in the world. What was silver mine earlier, is now a hotel about 155 meters depth.

It is advised by the management to take warm clothes, because outside the hotel rooms in the tunnel temperature is about three degrees. Your cell phone will have no reception down there, but do not worry, thanks to wireless devices; you are in constant contact with the surface.

The silver work of Sala is open all year round for groups and accommodation bookings. Prices range, depending on accommodation, at around 4,290 Swedish crowns. You may also like the list of 10 Most Scenic Drives in Europe.

1. Manta Underwater Room in Zanzibar

Under the sea.

The last hotel of our list exceeds all hotels mentioned so far on uniqueness and exclusivity. Off the coast of Tanzania you can have a bedroom underwater.

The hotel is in Manta Resort in Zanzibar a raft off the coast. The raft is divided over three floors. However, no matter if you are on the roof terrace for sunbathing or in the bedroom, you stay under water.

Manta Underwater Room is definitely one of the hotels that you will not want to leave during the holiday. A look at the underwater world of the Indian Ocean is crystal clear, and at night it ensures little floating lamps for a beautiful atmosphere. At the same time the soft light also attracts shy animals such as the octopus.

The accommodation costs for underwater experience can revolve around $1200. You may also like; 10 most amazing underwater hotels and relaxing resorts.