From glass igloos to underwater suites, these unique stays redefine the travel experience. Why book a standard hotel room when the world offers magical treehouses, underwater hideaways, and ice palaces? Today’s travellers aren’t just chasing destinations—they’re chasing experiences. And nothing says “unforgettable” like falling asleep beneath the shimmering Northern Lights or waking up to waves crashing below your bed on a remote island off the coast of Canada. These extraordinary hotels offer more than just a place to rest your head—they transform your entire trip into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you’re craving Arctic wonder, forest serenity, or aquatic calm, these stays deliver the wow factor—all while honouring the land and the people who call it home.
Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Every winter in northern Sweden, a team of artists and builders come together to create a temporary masterpiece: the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi and is the world’s first ice hotel. Crafted entirely from ice and snow sourced from the nearby Torne River, this ephemeral hotel is an architectural wonder. Each suite is uniquely designed with hand-carved ice sculptures, icy furniture, and intricate frosted details.
Guests sleep in thermal sleeping bags on beds made of ice, topped with reindeer hides for warmth. While it may sound chilly, the experience is anything but cold—between the warm hospitality, the onsite Ice Bar, and optional winter excursions like dog sledding or ice sculpting, the Icehotel is a sensory wonderland.
Tips:
- Best time to go: December to April when the Icehotel is at its wintry best.
- What to pack: Layered thermal clothing and waterproof boots.
- Don’t miss: The Northern Lights photography tour.
- Stay duration: 1–2 nights in the ice suites is perfect; consider pairing it with a few nights in the “warm rooms” onsite.
Website: www.icehotel.com
Fogo Island Inn – Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Perched dramatically on the rocky shores of Fogo Island, off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn is more than just a hotel—it’s a community-driven beacon of responsible travel. This 29-suite inn is owned by a charitable foundation that reinvests all profits into the local economy, preserving both the island’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Designed to embrace the landscape rather than dominate it, the inn’s architecture seems to hover above the waves, offering panoramic views of icebergs, whales, and stormy seas—depending on the season. Inside, guests enjoy handcrafted furniture, cozy wood-burning stoves, and art created by local artisans. The experience is immersive, peaceful, and deeply rooted in a respect for land and people.
Whether you’re hiking ancient footpaths, watching wild Atlantic weather sweep across the ocean, or learning about outport traditions from local “community hosts,” your stay supports a rare model of regenerative tourism that honours place over profit.
Tips:
- Best time to go: Spring for iceberg season, or fall for dramatic coastal storms and foliage.
- How to get there: Fly into Gander, Newfoundland, then drive and take a ferry to Fogo Island.
- Pack for: Layers—weather changes fast. Bring sturdy shoes for coastal hikes.
- Stay duration: 3–5 nights is ideal to unplug, recharge, and connect with the community.
Website: www.fogoislandinn.ca
Manta Resort – Pemba Island, Tanzania
Looking for the ultimate romantic escape? Head to The Manta Resort on Pemba Island, where the star accommodation is an underwater room floating in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This unique, three-level suite includes a rooftop deck for sunbathing, a sea-level lounge for sunset views, and a submerged bedroom with 360-degree views of vibrant marine life.
By day, snorkel or dive among coral reefs. By night, drift to sleep with fish gliding by your window—it’s like living in a real-life aquarium, passively observing marine life in their natural habitat without intrusion.
Tips:
- Best time to go: July to October for clear skies and calm waters.
- What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera.
- Ideal for: Honeymooners and ocean lovers.
- Stay duration: 3–4 nights to fully immerse yourself in island serenity.
Website: www.themantaresort.com
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Saariselkä, Finland
Ever dreamed of watching the Northern Lights dance overhead while snuggled under a duvet? At Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you can. Located in Finnish Lapland, this resort is famous for its glass igloos—cosy, heated domes with uninterrupted views of the Arctic sky.
Beyond the igloos, guests can stay in log cabins, try their hand at ice fishing, or take a sleigh ride with reindeer. In winter, the snow-covered forests are breathtaking. In summer, the midnight sun casts an ethereal glow over the landscape.
Tips:
- Best time to go: Late August to April for the Northern Lights.
- Activities to try: Reindeer safaris, ice swimming (for the brave), and Finnish sauna experiences.
- Northern Lights tip: Book at least 3 nights to increase your chances of seeing them.
- Stay duration: 2–4 nights depending on your cold-weather comfort zone.
Website: www.kakslauttanen.fi
Treehotel – Harads, Sweden
High above the forest floor in northern Sweden, Treehotel offers a playful yet luxurious escape into nature. This isn’t your average treehouse—each structure is a design marvel, ranging from a mirrored cube that reflects the forest around it, to a UFO-shaped pod and a minimalist bird’s nest.
Designed by leading Scandinavian architects, the treehouses blend seamlessly into their surroundings while offering comfort, style, and eco-friendly principles. Guests enjoy modern amenities, panoramic views, and the peace that only the deep woods can offer.
Every stay supports local conservation and forestry stewardship, with the added bonus of complete immersion in stillness and natural beauty—perfect for passive observation of wildlife and starry skies.
Tips:
- Best time to go: Year-round! Snowy winters are magical, but summer offers the midnight sun.
- Pack for: Rustic adventures—there are nearby hiking and dog sledding opportunities.
- Top pick: The Mirrorcube is the most iconic design, but the Dragonfly is best for families or groups.
- Stay duration: 2 nights to enjoy the treehouse and surrounding activities.
Website: www.treehotel.se
Honourable Mentions
While the above five are legendary, here are a few more unusual stays worth adding to your travel bucket list:
- Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru – Sleep in a transparent pod on a cliffside in the Sacred Valley (requires a climb to access!).
- Palacio de Sal, Bolivia – A luxury hotel made entirely of salt, located near the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats.
- Attrap’Rêves, France – Transparent bubble tents for stargazing in the Provençal countryside.
Travel That Sparks Wonder
In a world where experiences matter more than souvenirs, these unique accommodations offer something rare: a deep, emotional connection to place. Whether you’re drifting beneath the waves, nestled among the trees, or savouring solitude on a remote island, these hotels remind us that travel can—and should—be magical.
Each of these extraordinary stays invites us to observe the world with curiosity, gratitude, and a gentle footprint. After all, the most meaningful journeys begin when we respect the land, the ocean, and all of their inhabitants.
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet. Safe and mindful travels!