Unique Accommodations: Staying in Treehouses, Yurts, and More

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Ever dreamed of waking up in a treehouse, surrounded by nature’s sounds, or gazing at stars from a bubble dome? The world of unique stays invites you to experience extraordinary moments. These experiences are far beyond what a typical hotel room offers¹.

Picture yourself drinking coffee as giraffes look in at Giraffe Manor in Kenya, or exploring an underwater suite at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island². These unique places turn travel into unforgettable adventures.

In Sweden, the Icehotel offers icy marvels, while Whitepod in the Swiss Alps has eco-luxe pods². These places redefine hospitality. You’ll dive into cultural experiences that go beyond the usual, whether glamping in a yurt or floating on a houseboat.

Are you ready to leave the ordinary behind and embrace the extraordinary? Let’s dive into unique stays that promise to make your next trip unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Unique accommodations offer immersive experiences in nature and culture
• Treehouses, yurts, and glamping tents provide comfort in unconventional settings
• Ice hotels and underwater suites push the boundaries of hospitality
• Alternative stays can support sustainability and local communities
• Unique accommodations create memorable stories and adventures

The Rise of Alternative Lodging Options

The travel world is changing, and you’re in for a treat! Unconventional stays are taking over the hospitality scene. No more boring hotel rooms. Now, unique travel experiences are waiting for you at every turn.

Alternative accommodations are getting more popular, taking over 36% of the North American market in 2021³. These unique places aren’t just a trend; they’re beating traditional hotels. While hotels saw a small 7.6% growth, these places had a huge 45% increase³⁴.

So, you might be curious about this trend. Well, it’s huge! There are 44.8 million alternative accommodation units worldwide, which is 2.3 times more than traditional hotels⁴. In 2021, these places made up about 20% of the $300 billion in global lodging revenue⁴.

“The future of travel is all about personalization and unique experiences. Alternative lodgings are not just a trend; they’re reshaping the entire hospitality landscape.”

The big names in hospitality are taking notice. Even the Marriott CEO sees Airbnb as a big competitor³. It’s clear why, with Airbnb’s 46% growth and $8.4 billion in revenue in 2022³.

Want to join the movement? Embracing local customs and traditions through these stays can change your travel game. From treehouses in Thailand to glass igloos in Finland, these places are the adventure themselves!

As you plan your next trip, think about trying something new. With platforms like Sonder, Casai, and Getaway, you have endless options for memorable stays⁴. So, are you ready to make your travel dreams come true?

Treehouses: Childhood Dreams Come to Life

Imagine waking up in a cozy nest high above the forest floor. Treehouse travel has turned childhood dreams into reality. It offers unique stays for those who love adventure. These treehouses mix old-time charm with modern luxury, giving guests unforgettable moments.

Luxury Treehouses Around the World

Treehouses are popping up everywhere, from the U.S. to Italy, Australia to Indonesia⁵. Some have big living areas, others have snug little spots⁵. These places have top-notch features like full kitchens, queen-size beds, fireplaces, and private pools⁵.

In Sweden, you can find treehouse rooms with rooftop terraces for stargazing⁵. Imagine being 40 feet up, surrounded by greenery and amazing views⁵. In the U.S., Bolt Farm in Tennessee has treehouses with king-sized beds, hot tubs, and outdoor showers⁶.

Eco-Friendly Treehouse Retreats

Many treehouses focus on being green. In Costa Rica, a treehouse took three years to build and fits right into the jungle⁵. Pacuare Lodge in Central America is only reachable by raft or cable car and is all about being eco-friendly⁵.

In Peru, the Treehouse Lodge has 12 treehouses, from small nests to a big ‘Swiss Family Robinson’ style one for 6 people⁷. These places let you enjoy nature without harming it.

Treehouse Adventures for Families

Treehouse travel is great for families too. Some places have activities for kids and adults alike. Picture a treehouse camp with swings and a library, perfect for making memories⁵. In Wales, the Living-Room Treehouses have 6 spots for family vacations⁷.

For a mix of comfort and adventure, check out the Pan Treetop Cabins in Norway. They can fit up to 6 people with 4 single beds and 1 double, perfect for family trips⁷. Treehouse travel has something for everyone, whether you want peace or action.

Yurts: A Taste of Nomadic Living

Yurt stays mix history with modern comfort, offering a unique experience. These traditional homes from Central Asia have been around for over two and a half thousand years⁸. Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian, first wrote about yurts as homes for nomads⁸.

Now, yurts are versatile and serve many purposes. They come in sizes of 20, 24, and 32 feet, giving you space from 314 to 804 square feet⁹. You can find them as cozy homes, creative spaces, or even big meeting places⁹.

Yurt stays are great because they’re efficient and flexible. You can set up or take down a yurt in 30 minutes to 3 hours⁸. They can fit between five and 15 people, making them perfect for family or group trips⁸.

“Yurts offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern comfort, allowing you to experience nomadic living without sacrificing luxury.”

Yurts are becoming popular in luxury resorts around the world. They’re loved for being affordable and easy to set up – just 72 hours from start to finish⁹. You’ll see them as private rooms, spa spots, and places for gatherings in fancy places⁹.

If you want a glamping adventure or a unique wellness retreat, try yurt stays. These circular homes can handle any weather, so you stay comfortable all year⁹. Why not explore nomadic living and see the magic of yurts for yourself?

Glamping: Where Luxury Meets the Great Outdoors

Imagine waking up to birds chirping, surrounded by nature, but with hotel comforts. That’s glamping – a mix of glamour and camping that’s popular¹⁰¹¹.

Glamping is a hit for those wanting to escape city life but keep comfort. You can choose from safari tents, Airstream trailers, yurts, or treehouses. These glamorous outdoor stays offer many options¹⁰.

Top Glamping Destinations

Find luxury camping spots in stunning places worldwide. Imagine a plush tent with a view of Uluru in Australia or in the Swiss Alps. These spots are more than places to sleep; they’re gateways to memorable experiences.

What to Expect in a Glamping Experience

Glamping means enjoying the outdoors with hotel comforts. Look forward to soft bedding, private bathrooms, and fine meals. Some resorts offer activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and yoga outside¹⁰.

“Glamping is not just a vacation, it’s a chance to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort.”

Glamping Gear Essentials

Most glamping sites have the basics, but a few extras can make your stay better. Think about bringing:

• A cozy robe for chilly mornings
• Binoculars for wildlife spotting
• A good book for lazy afternoons
• A prepaid Visa gift card for unexpected adventures

Glamping is perfect for romantic getaways, family trips, or corporate retreats. It’s a unique way to enjoy nature without giving up luxury. Your glamorous outdoor adventure is waiting¹⁰¹¹!

Houseboats: Floating Accommodations with a View

Ever dreamed of waking up to gentle waves lapping against your bedroom window? Houseboats offer a unique twist on waterfront stays. They combine home comforts with the thrill of floating homes. These charming places bring you closer to nature and offer all you need for a cozy getaway.

Picture yourself lounging on a sun-drenched deck, sipping coffee as the world drifts by. Houseboats vary in size and style, from luxurious mansions to quaint vessels. Many have full kitchens, comfy bedrooms, and large living areas, perfect for families or romantic getaways.

At SōLSTAY, you’ll find a range of options to suit your needs. Their Lux Houseboats Ensuite can accommodate two people, with prices ranging from $275 to $375 per night¹². For a budget-friendly option, consider the Tiny Houseboats, which sleep two and cost between $150 and $180 nightly¹².

If you prefer more space, SōLSTAY’s waterfront cottages offer 2-3 bedrooms, sleeping 4-8 people, with rates from $275 to $425 per night¹². These floating homes have full kitchens and private bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Life is better on the water. Wake up to stunning views, fall asleep to the gentle rocking of waves, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Your houseboat adventure isn’t just about the accommodation. Many floating resorts offer exciting activities to enhance your stay. At SōLSTAY, you can enjoy paddle boarding, relax in a shared rooftop hot tub, or unwind in a floating sauna¹². Don’t miss the impressive 80-foot mural by graffiti artist Jules Muck, celebrating the beauty of Lake Erie and SōLSTAY¹².

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, houseboats offer a fresh perspective on travel. So why not trade your landlocked hotel for a floating oasis? Your next unforgettable vacation might just be waiting on the water.

Ice Hotels: Chilly Charm in Frozen Wonderlands

Experience the magic of winter at ice hotels that redefine luxury. These places mix art and adventure, letting you sleep among ice walls and sculptures.

Famous Ice Hotels Around the Globe

In Sweden, the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi is famous for its unique rooms, kept cold between 18 and 23 degrees Fahrenheit¹³. Finland’s SnowCastle in Kemi changes theme every year, using ice and snow from the bay¹⁴. These places show off the talent of ice artists and sculptors.

Surviving Your Stay in an Ice Hotel

Don’t worry about the cold! Ice hotels have cozy sleeping bags and warm areas for everyone. For more comfort, try Lapland Hotels Snow Village with its heated cabins and saunas¹³. Temperatures are between 0°C and -5°C, making it cool but not too harsh¹⁴.

Unique Activities at Ice Hotels

There’s more to do than just sleep. Many hotels offer ice sculpting classes, Northern Lights tours, and ice bars for drinks in ice glasses. For a special touch, visit the glass-roofed igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle for stargazing from your bed¹³.

“Sleeping in an ice hotel is like stepping into a frozen fairy tale – it’s an experience that will chill you to the bone in the best possible way!”

If you’re watching your budget, consider visiting during off-peak seasons. You can find more budget travel tips to make your trip affordable without losing the magic.

Hobbit Homes: Living Like a Tolkien Character

Step into the magical world of hobbit homes, where fantasy meets reality. These charming homes became famous after the 2001 “Lord of the Rings” movie. They capture the essence of Tolkien’s vision with their unique design¹⁵. Imagine living in a cozy home with round doors and stone walls, just like in the Shire.

Hobbit houses are small, about the size of a tiny home, with around 400 square feet¹⁵. Inside, you’ll find a simple, earthy style with lots of natural light¹⁵. The use of wood and stone makes it feel connected to nature, perfect for a themed stay.

“It’s like stepping into a storybook. The attention to detail in these hobbit homes is incredible!”

On Airbnb, you can find hobbit house rentals all over the world for fans of the Shire¹⁵. These unique places offer many amenities, like hot tubs and fire pits. Prices range from $140 to $490 a night for a weekend stay¹⁵.

Hobbit Homes Across the United States

Across the U.S., you can find hobbit-inspired retreats with their own special charm. From the Texas Hobbit Treehouse for 4 guests to the California Hobbit House for 2, there’s something for every group size¹⁶.

For a deep dive into hobbit life, check out Forest Gully Farms in Santa Fe, Tennessee. This place covers 15 acres and has three huts for up to eight people¹⁷. Made with durable materials, these homes blend modern comforts with hobbit charm¹⁷.

Whether you want a romantic trip or a family adventure, hobbit homes offer a magical escape. Book your stay and start your own hobbit journey!

Converted Transportation: Trains, Planes, and Automobiles

Step into a world of repurposed vehicles and nostalgic accommodations! You’ll find unique stays in converted trains, planes, and automobiles. These places blend vintage charm with modern comforts. They offer more than just a place to rest – they’re an experience in themselves.

Imagine waking up in a cozy train car, surrounded by the whispers of railway history. The Railroad Park Resort in Dunsmuir, California, lets you do just that. Open since 1968, this unique hotel features multiple converted train cars with king-size beds, full bathrooms, and even a dining car for meals¹⁸. You’ll enjoy amenities like a pool and communal fire pit, all while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere.

For those who dream of taking to the skies, Alaska offers a truly out-of-this-world experience. You can stay in a converted McDonnell Douglas DC-6 airplane for about $448 per night, or splurge on the newer DC-9 for $849¹⁹. These grounded aircraft have been transformed into cozy retreats, complete with spray foam insulation to keep you warm during chilly Alaskan nights.

If you’re looking for more urban adventures, several historic train stations across the U.S. have been repurposed into luxurious hotels. The St. Louis Union Station Hotel in Missouri boasts nearly 600 rooms after a $150 million renovation, while the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station offers 26 rooms in actual Pullman train cars inside the main building²⁰.

These repurposed vehicles offer more than just a place to sleep – they’re a ticket to a bygone era. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, aviation buff, or simply seeking a unique getaway, these nostalgic accommodations promise an unforgettable stay. So why settle for ordinary when you can sleep in a piece of transportation history?

Bubble Domes: Stargazing in Comfort

Imagine falling asleep under the stars, feeling the luxury all around you. Welcome to bubble domes, the newest way to connect with nature. These special places let you enjoy the stars while being very comfortable.

Best Locations for Bubble Dome Stays

Bubble domes are now in amazing spots across the U.S. Clear Sky Resorts started with eight dome rooms near the Grand Canyon. They’ve added five more near Bryce Canyon National Park, perfect for up to eight people²¹. These places blend into nature, giving guests stunning views of the wild.

The Technology Behind Bubble Domes

These structures are amazing feats of engineering. They handle all kinds of weather and keep you cozy inside. Most have climate control and Wi-Fi, so you can share your starry moments right away²¹.

Unforgettable Experiences in Bubble Domes

Stargazing Retreats in Camp Verde is a top choice, scoring an 8.6. Guests love the comfort (9.1) and how clean it is (8.9)²². Besides gazing at the stars, these places offer more fun. Clear Sky Resorts has s’mores, stargazing tours, movie nights, live music, and yoga at sunrise²¹.

Bubble domes cost more than regular hostels but offer luxury. You get comfy beds, private bathrooms, and sometimes hot tubs or decks²³. They’re perfect for those wanting a peaceful break, especially for couples or solo travelers looking for something special.

Underwater Accommodations: Sleeping with the Fishes

Ever dreamed of sleeping while colorful fish swim by your window? Now, underwater hotels make this dream come true. They offer guests a chance to sleep in rooms under the sea with amazing views of marine life. These places are appearing all over the world²⁴.

Imagine waking up to tropical fish swimming right by your window at the Atlantis the Palm in Dubai. Their Underwater Suites, named after sea gods, let you see marine life from your bed²⁴²⁵. For a unique experience, try the Manta Resort in Tanzania. You can sleep in a sunken bedroom 13 feet below sea level²⁴.

The Muraka at Rangali Island Resort in the Maldives is a mix of luxury and adventure. It’s called the “world’s first underwater villa.” Opened in late 2018, this place takes underwater rooms to a new level²⁴²⁵. If you like city views, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in China has underwater levels with a restaurant and rooms²⁴²⁵.

“Sleeping with the fishes has never been so luxurious!”

Whether you dive 21 feet down to Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Florida or enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from Reefsuites in Australia, these places offer amazing views of the sea²⁴. Why choose a regular land-based room when you can stay in an underwater paradise?

Unique Accommodations: Embracing the Unconventional

Step into a world of unique lodging where your stay is an adventure. Quirky stays are changing how we travel, offering more than just a place to sleep. From treehouses to underwater suites, these options are for travelers wanting deep experiences in special places²⁶²⁷.

Imagine waking up in a human-sized nest by the ocean at Treebones Resort in Big Sur, California. Or maybe you’d like sleeping underground in hobbit-like huts at Forest Gully Farms in Tennessee. These places let you live out dreams and make memories that last²⁶.

For those who love history, The Jerome Grand Hotel in Arizona is a former hospital turned haunted hotel. Or try Borden Flats Lighthouse in Massachusetts, where you can be a lighthouse keeper for a night²⁶.

Thanks to online booking sites like Airbnb and Canopy & Stars, finding these unique stays is easy. Travelers can now easily explore a world of unusual lodging with just a few clicks²⁸.

Whether you’re sleeping with the fishes in an underwater hotel or stargazing from a bubble dome, these places change how we travel. Embrace the unusual and make your next trip unforgettable²⁷.

Sustainability in Alternative Lodging

Exploring unique accommodations shows us that eco-friendly stays are getting more popular. More people now prefer sustainable brands when they travel²⁹.

Eco-Friendly Practices in Unique Accommodations

Treehouses, yurts, and other unique places are leading in sustainability. They use smart tech to cut down on energy use. You might find shower timers and occupancy-sensing thermostats in your room²⁹.

These places often use natural materials for their furniture. This adds a green touch to your stay²⁹.

Supporting Local Communities Through Alternative Stays

Choosing eco-friendly travel helps the planet and supports local areas. Many places source food locally, cutting down on emissions and helping the economy²⁹. Some sites, like Fairbnb, give 50 percent of their commission to local projects³⁰.

The Future of Sustainable Tourism

The future of travel is looking green, with a focus on reducing carbon footprints³¹. These places are not just about saving energy. They also help keep cultural traditions alive. They support music, dance, art, and crafts, keeping culture vibrant³¹.

Think about staying at these eco-friendly places for your next trip. You’ll have unique experiences and help with responsible travel. This benefits the environment and local communities.

Planning Your Unique Accommodation Adventure

Ready to leave behind the usual hotel room? Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of unique stays! Start by doing thorough research. Look into everything from treehouses to yurts. The more specific your search, the better your options³².

Don’t stop at just the first page of search results. There’s adventure waiting on the next pages! Try searching for things like “sleeping with the fishes in Florida” or “glamping with goats in California.” You might find a place that makes your trip truly special³². And think about staying with a local family. It’s cheaper and lets you experience life like a local, plus you might get great travel advice³³.

When booking unique places, timing is key. These spots book up quickly, so plan early³⁴. Check if pets are allowed and if there are electric vehicle charging stations. Always read the details and recent reviews before booking. You don’t want to end up in a place that’s not as advertised³²!

Source Links

1. Unique accommodations to stay in: treehouses, yurts, and more – Emerald Tourism – https://www.emeraldtourism.com/pt/unique-accommodations-to-stay-in-treehouses-yurts-and-more/
2. Unique Accommodations: Stay in a Treehouse, Yurt, and More – https://medium.com/@gheorghita.dana23/unique-accommodations-stay-in-a-treehouse-yurt-and-more-63bcf6a91a92
3. How Hotels Can Survive The Alternative Accommodations Boom – NewGen Advisory – https://newgenadv.com/2023/05/how-hotels-can-survive-the-alternative-accommodations-boom/
4. Alternative accommodation goes mainstream – HOTELSMag.com – https://hotelsmag.com/news/report-alternative-accommodation-is-going-mainstream/
5. 33 Stunning Treehouses Around the World That You Can Actually Rent – https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/house-tours/g3301/amazing-tree-house-homes/
6. Luxury Treehouses Rentals in Tennessee at Bolt Farm – https://www.boltfarmtreehouse.com/accommodations/treehouses
7. 11 Amazing Tree Houses For Rent – Unique Sleeps – https://uniquesleeps.com/tree-houses-for-rent/
8. Yurt – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yurt
9. What is a Yurt? Introduction, History, Benefits & Misconceptions | The Out Factory – https://theoutfactory.com/what-is-a-yurt/
10. Glamping: Where Luxury Meets Nature – https://www.giftcardgranny.com/blog/glamping-where-luxury-meets-nature/?srsltid=AfmBOoqgyJjMWfNHqgwSeDq9Icn-LxtgKmqfnWKf4B5_UCqfdxtWSXvj
11. Glamping in the Great Outdoors – www.themeetingmagazines.com – https://www.themeetingmagazines.com/cit/glamping-meetings/
12. SōLSTAY Lodging & Marina; Sandusky, OH – https://www.solstaylodging.com/
13. 10 Best Snow Hotels | Luxury Ice Hotels & Glass Igloos – https://luxuryhotel.com/guides/luxury-snow-hotels/
14. Find out where the best ice hotels in Finland are – https://www.nordicvisitor.com/blog/best-ice-hotels-finland/
15. 20 Real-Life Hobbit House Rentals in the World for Tolkien Fans – https://www.homecrux.com/seven-breathtaking-hobbit-homes-around-world/13406/
16. Rent an Amazing Hobbit Home for a Fantastic Vacation — SEE, SEEK, SLEEP – https://www.seeseeksleep.com/sleep/hobbit
17. Middle Earth in rural Tennessee: Forest Gully Farms offers visitors the chance to experience hobbit life – https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/forest-gully-farms-tennessee/
18. Railroad Park Resort: Sleeping in a Train Car in Dunsmuir – California Through My Lens – https://californiathroughmylens.com/railroad-park-resort/
19. The man turning jet planes into cool houses | CNN – https://www.cnn.com/travel/fly8ma-pilot-lodge-wasilla-alaska/index.html
20. All Aboard: These 6 Hotels Are Located in Former Train Stations – https://www.afar.com/magazine/6-former-train-stations-that-are-now-hotels
21. These clear dome hotels in Arizona and Utah offer stunning stargazing – https://www.ksby.com/clear-dome-hotels-arizona-utah-offer-stunning-stargazing
22. ★ Stargazing Retreats, Camp Verde, USA – https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/stargazing-village.html
23. Texas Dreaming: Experience Luxury at the Bubble Hotel! – https://www.missinghotel.com/blog/texas-dreaming-experience-luxury-at-the-bubble-hotel
24. 8 Underwater Hotel Rooms With the Most Spectacular Views of the Ocean – https://mymodernmet.com/luxury-underwater-hotels/
25. Sleeping with the fishes – 5 hotels with underwater rooms – https://traveltomorrow.com/sleeping-with-fish-5-hotels-with-underwater-rooms/
26. Quirky Accommodation: The Most Unusual Places to Stay in America – https://thedownlo.com/uncategorized/22weirdestplacesyoucansleepinamericathataredefinitelynotyourtypicalhotelorhostel/
27. “Unusual Accommodations: Staying in Treehouses, Ice Hotels, and More” – https://vocal.media/wander/unusual-accommodations-staying-in-treehouses-ice-hotels-and-more
28. How to Find and Book Unique Accommodations Online – https://medium.com/@aman103/how-to-find-and-book-unique-accommodations-online-4464ed20cd46
29. 25 Eco-Friendly Hotel Ideas for Sustainable Properties – https://www.cvent.com/en/blog/hospitality/eco-friendly-hotel-ideas
30. Alternative Accommodation Platforms Prioritize Social Connection, Community Care | Sustainable Brands – https://sustainablebrands.com/read/circular-economy/alternative-accommodation-platforms-social-connection-care
31. Make Your Stay Beyond Green – Eco-First Prestigious Luxury Holidays – https://staybeyondgreen.com/
32. How To Find The Best Hotel For Your Next Adventure – https://iamlostandfound.com/how-to-find-the-best-hotel-for-your-next-adventure/
33. Guide To Homestay Travel – BikeHike Adventures – https://www.bikehike.com/blog/guide-to-homestay-travel
34. 10 Tips on How to Plan the Perfect Vacation – https://selectregistry.com/blog/how-to-plan-the-perfect-vacation