Ever wondered where you can find unique accommodation on your travels? Where are the quirky places to stay around the world?

Have you experienced a night in a treehouse, or in a houseboat or ice hotel? There are some incredibly unique escapes across the world to experience. 

Here’s a roundup featuring top travel blogger recommendations of some of the most quirky places to stay around the world From cave hotels, safari lodges, treehouses, to glass roof cabins.

Unique accommodation

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Aurora Cabin Lapland

You can tick off some serious travel bucket list goals by staying in an Aurora cabin in Apukka Resort in Finnish Lapland.

This amazing resort is definitely one of the best places to stay in Rovaniemi. It honestly looks like something out of a fairytale.

There are wooden, snow-covered cabins and ice cottages surrounded by dense forests and wandering reindeer. Apukka Resort is outside of the bright city lights.

This makes it the ideal place to see the beautiful and elusive aurora borealis, dancing in the night sky.

Taskonaklar Cave Hotel, Turkey

Located in central Turkey, the region of Cappadocia is known for winding underground cities, unique rock formations known as “fairy chimneys” and hot air balloon rides at sunrise.

Cappadocia is also famous for their spectacular cave hotels, that have been built directly into the rock!

If you’ve ever dreamed of spending the night in a cave, but would rather forego the dirt and the bats, Cappadocia is the perfect place to visit.

Cave hotel Cappadocia

Taskonaklar is a boutique cave hotel that combines history and luxury. It’s a really unique hotel in Turkey. 

The architect kept the integrity of the ancient cave ruins in designing the gorgeous suites that you can sleep in today.

Rounded stone walls and dim lighting create the ambience of a cave, while plush bedding and beautiful antique furniture will ensure you have a comfortable stay.

Opt for the deluxe room with the private outdoor jacuzzi tub so you can have a sunrise soak while watching the hot air balloons float through the valley below! Chosen by Wandering Wheatleys.

Hobbitenango, Guatemala

Hobbitenango is a beautiful eco-property in the hills outside Antigua, Guatemala. The cute little hobbit-style Casitas have round doors and round windows, a living grass roof, and are built into the hillside. They all offer a stunning view overlooking the valley below.

It’s completely off-grid and runs on solar and wind energy. Hobbitenango is truly an eco-friendly project that’s good for the environment and good for the soul.

Eco stay Guatemala

During your stay you can spend the day hiking in the surrounding hills, swinging on the rope-swing, visiting the animals that live on the property, playing games like corn hole and giant dice, or just relaxing on the restaurant terrace.

After a delicious farm-to-table dinner in the onsite restaurant, you’ll return to a roaring fireplace slowly heating up your hobbit house.

Snuggling into bed with the fireplace crackling, while looking out the window at the twinkling lights of Antigua in the valley below, will make you feel like you’ve drifted right over to Middle-Earth. Chosen by Where Is The World.

Timber Ridge Treehouse Illinois

We found a unique treehouse lodging experience in Southern Illinois. The Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins in Illinois offers tree houses for an unusual glamping experience.

Luxury lodging surrounded by nature and half a day’s drive from Chicago. Guests can enjoy an amazing glamping experience with kayaking and horseback riding adventures nearby.

Nestled in woodlands, these treehouses offer you an opportunity to disconnect from the world and appreciate beautiful nature. It’s a really fun and unique place to stay. Chosen by Travel with Sara.

Mill House Studio, Inn at Vaucluse Spring, Virginia

Spring water flowing through the millrace lulls you to sleep in the Mill House Studio, one of several unique accommodations at the Inn at Vaucluse Spring in Stephens City, Virginia.

The historic cottage is perfect for a romantic getaway from busy Washington DC. It’s definitely one of the more unusual places to visit in the US.

The two-story cottage sits at the edge of the millpond, where a private stone patio and two Adirondacks capture reflections of the sky and woods.

Inside, a comfortable sitting room with a fireplace and wet bar is supplied with easel, sketchpads, pastels, and pencils encouraging guests to explore their creative side. There is no TV, and you’ll have to visit another building for wifi, so you have every excuse to relax. At night, a plush king-size bed and lovely bath welcome you to sleep.

Vaucluse Spring Virginia accommodation

There are five more guesthouses and cabins at the Inn, from a former tobacco barn to an elegant Manor house, built in 1785.

All guests visit the Manor house for a delicious three-course breakfast and, optionally, an elegant prix fixe dinner.

When you’re ready for a little activity, head to nearby Winchester Virginia to explore its pedestrian-friendly downtown full of restaurants, shops, and history. It’s one of the most unique romantic getaways in the USA. Chosen by Fun in Fairfax VA.

Sheki Karvansaray Hotel, Azerbaijan

The small town of Sheki in northern Azerbaijan lies at the crossroads of east and west. From the second century BC, merchants travelling the fabled Silk Road passed through Sheki on their way from China to the Mediterranean. Inns called caravanserais were built all along the road to accommodate traders and their goods.

After a period of abandonment, the caravanserai in Sheki, a magnificent two-storey stone building, re-opened as the Sheki Karvansaray hotel in the 1990s.

Azerbaijan hotel

Some of the 600 separate chambers were converted into modest hotel rooms, each with a private bathroom.

The real highlight of the Sheki Karvansaray Hotel is the common areas, a spectacular central courtyard and arched cloisters. It’s a unique accommodation in Azerbaijan for sure. Chosen by Wander-lush. 

Ice Hotel Jukkasjarvi, Sweden

There are ice hotels and there are ice hotels. And then there is THE ice hotel. The one in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, where the sculptures make Disney’s Frozen look like a mud-tinged, lopsided snowman dribbling away at the side of the road.

Rebuilt every year, the Ice Hotel attracts artists from around the world. Fancy sleeping in a life-sized London Underground Tube train made of ice? Done!

A menacing montage of Clockwork Orange style film? You got it! Or, of course, there are the classics: flowers, reindeer, castles… snow.

Ice Hotel Sweden

As the first commercial Ice Hotel in the world (its reindeer-skin doors opened in 1989) it’s concocted a slick routine to keep guests happy.

Keep them active by day – think snowmobiling, husky-sledging and the time it takes to get dressed – and in the bar by night (spirits only, as the ice glasses freeze all beer and wine.)

But is it warm enough to actually get any sleep? Yes, with a bit of effort. Guests undergo a “training session” before snuggling into a double sleeping bag and hoping they won’t need the loo.

Reindeer skins rest on the ice and staff wake dozing layabouts (like us,) with hot lingonberry juice in the morning. Chosen by Inside the Travel Lab. 

Traditional Travellers Caravan, Wales

Get back to the simple life at Melin Mabes in Pembrokeshire. This traditional caravan is located on a private site, near the pretty town in Narbeth, one of the most Instagrammable places in Wales. This rustic retreat is the perfect romantic accommodation for couples.

You can snuggle up in authentic fairytale Romani vardo for a romantic and secluded evening away for two. This super pretty caravan sleeps two adults in a double bed amongst luxury bedding. There is also a wood-burning stove inside t keep you warm throughout the night.

If you are looking for a technology-free holiday, this is the place for you. There is no TV or gadgets inside the caravan. Just twinkling fairy lights and a reading lamp. It’s a unique glamping site in Wales and is really worth a visit.

Hocking Hills Caboose

In the hills of Southeast Ohio, USA sits a unique, cabin-like property. The Hocking Hills Caboose is a restored train caboose that sleeps 5. 

Equipped with a full bathroom and kitchenette, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of hiking. Our family enjoyed sitting on the deck and watching the stars come out each evening.

Staying in a Caboose Ohio

There was a fire-pit to enjoy s’mores and a barbeque to make dinner. Hocking Hills State Park is Ohio’s premier outdoor destination.

From kayaking to climbing waterfalls, Hocking Hills has a lot to offer people of all ages. The Caboose is great for couples looking for a unique getaway, or families wanting to make memories that don’t involve WiFi.

For those that aren’t comfortable in a tent, this is a taste of glamping. It’s certainly a unique place to stay in the USA. Chosen by Yoder Toter.

Granó Beckasin, Swedish Lapland 

Granö Beckasin is a tranquil retreat in Swedish Lapland. Situated next to the Ume River and surrounded by thick forest, Granó Beckasin is ideal if you’re looking for a blissful escape. The treehouses, nicknamed Bird Nests, is a unique accommodation option in Granö.

Built from sustainable and recycled materials, the treehouses are nestled in pine trees near the main lodge.

Inside, they’re luxuriously comfortable. By day, you’ll get expansive views of the river. And by night, you can stargaze from your bed, as each treehouse has a skylight.

You can stay in a Birds Nest at any time of year, as they’re cosy and snug during winter. It’s super Instagrammble accommodation in Sweeden Chosen by The Idyll. 

Yellow Dog Lodge, Yellowknife

One of the coolest things about exploring the Canadian Northwest Territories is the sheer isolation of it all.

Its huge size coupled with an extremely low population means there’s a lot of untouched nature teeming with wildlife.

One of the best things to do in the northwest territories of Canada is to take a floatplane to a secluded lake for fishing, hiking and aurora borealis viewing.

Yellowknife accommodation

However, if you want to take your isolation one step further, you can also sleep on a floating barge at Yellow Dog Lodge.

It’s a very unique accommodation in Canada for outdoor lovers. We had a blast hearing our voices echo across the lake.

We also loved sleeping under a blanket of stars, and waking up to nothing but the sound of the water hitting the sides of our barge. It was a magical experience. Chosen by Live Limitless.

Swags, Australia Outback

One of my absolute favourite places I have rested my head on my travels was on the dusty floor of the Australian Outback! Why, you ask?

Well because I fell asleep after gazing for hours at the mesmerizing starry sky above me and there are few experiences as special as that.

Now I’ve seen some pretty awesome scenery on my travels but the spectacular night sky was one of the prettiest things I’ve ever seen, with no light pollution to dim the brightness of the stars.

Camping in the Australian outback

On my 3 day trip into the Outback, we slept in swags. These are essentially sleeping bags with in-built mattresses.

You can zip them up so that just your eyes are poking out and they sure are quick to pack up than a tent!

I have to admit the possibility of sharing my swag with a snake, spider or scorpion crossed my mind, but luckily that did not happen!

But once I was gazing at those stars, all thoughts of creepie crawlies disappeared and I fell into one of the most peaceful nights of sleep I’ve ever had! It’s definitely a unique camping experience in Australia. Chosen by The Globetrotter GP.

Houseboat, Kerala

Spending a night in a houseboat on the backwaters of Kerala in southern India is a unique accommodation experience and something you shouldn’t miss when exploring Kerala!

The backwaters are a huge network of rivers and most people book a houseboat (including captain and cook) for two days, giving you enough time to float through the backwaters and to enjoy the beautiful views.

You’ll see the locals living on the edge of the rivers going about their everyday work and at the end of the day, you’ll enjoy an incredible sunset.

The houseboats have cabins and bathrooms, ranging from basic to extremely luxurious, depending on your budget. Chosen by German Backpacker.

Elephant’ Eye safari lodge, Zimbabwe

Elephant’s Eye Safri Lodge offers upscale accommodation in eight tented chalets looking out onto the African bush. It’s located on a private estate near the entrance of Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.

Game drives and guided bush walks are an option, and wildlife visits the camp’s two water holes. Meals are served in an open-sided dining room, from where it’s possible to observe creatures such as elephants, antelope and warthogs while dining.

Safari Lodge Zimbabwe

The roomy chalets have verandas and are raised on stilts. The king-size bed is draped with a mosquito net. The shower is outdoors, overlooking the bush, and the bathtub is by the window.

It’s a gorgeous place to stay if you appreciate nature, wildlife and luxury. Chosen by Go Eat Do.

Two Seasons Island Resort & Spa, Coron

The Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa is located on a private island near Coron and is a 100% self-sustaining island resort. This swish resort has 42 high ceiling bungalows spread among the island’s lush tropical gardens.

I stayed in an Island Tip Bungalow with a private jacuzzi on the verandah, a great place to watch the sunset and the beach.

Coron Resort

The two restaurants provide 5-star resort dining, my favourite dish was the ‘Crocodile in Coconut Milk’.

The resort organises diving and island hopping tours with their own private boats, rents transparent kayaks and Stand-Up Paddle Boards and also offers Wake-boarding and snorkelling tours. Chosen by Universal Traveller.

Geodesic dome, Vermont 

If you’re looking for a unique way to unplug and find solitude, head to Putney, Vermont in the mountains of New England, USA.

Not only will you find incredible hiking trails, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes, but you can also stay in cosy geodesic dome nestled in the woods.

The geodesic dome at Quarry Brook Farm makes a lovely weekend getaway, and it’s a fabulous way to escape from reality.

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Glamping Vermont

The dome as all the necessities, but no indoor plumbing (you have to use the outhouse) and no kitchen.

There’s a woodstove indoors to keep you warm on chilly evenings, and a fire pit outside for hanging out under the stars.

A queen-size bed with luxurious linens is one of the cosiest you’ll ever sleep in, and you can step out your door and head right into the woods to explore the many trails that criss-cross more than 20 acres of private woodland.

If you’re a hearty soul and want to try glamping in Vermont, this geodesic dome in Putney may be exactly what you’re looking for. Chosen by Back Road Ramblers. 

Shiva Camp in Faralya, Turkey

Sleep in a Teepee in Turkey for the night! If you had childhood dreams of sleeping in a teepee, make this wish come true while travelling in Turkey.

On the country’s southwestern coast are a handful of cliffside villages, secluded beaches with turquoise waters and lush valleys straight out of a fairytale.

In the midst of it all is Shiva Camp, a collection of bungalows and teepees. We opted to stay in the latter! 

To be completely honest, spending the night in a teepee is much like a traditional tent. However, with a mattress and access to a shared bathroom and shower, you certainly won’t be roughing it too much.

Plus, the location of Shiva Camp is out of this world! You’ll wake up with views over the ocean and you can peek down the cliffside and glimpse Kabak Beach, one of the most picturesque stretches of sand we’ve ever laid eyes on.

Camping in Turkey

Another huge perk to this accommodation is the incredible homemade meals that are served buffet style.

For breakfast, enjoy a huge spread of traditional Turkish dishes, like fruits, fresh cheeses, bread, and jam. Oh, and you can’t forget the Turkish coffee! They also serve lunch and dinner for an additional cost.

Hang out at the pool with a book, enjoy a cocktail at the bar, or wander down to Kabak Beach, which can only be reached on foot.

This epic spot has million-dollar views, but it is not just for the rich. In fact, at around $40 USD you’ll get a teepee that sleeps 2 people as well as a super satisfying breakfast.

It is a super affordable way to spend the night in a teepee while in true paradise! Chosen by Two Wandering Soles.

Castle Leslie, Glaslough, Ireland

Located just an hour’s drive from both Dublin and Belfast, Castle Leslie is one of the few Irish castles to remain owned by the original resident family.

The Leslie family was granted 50,000 acres by Queen Elizabeth I for saving her life, but the current property sits on a sprawling 1,000 acres surrounding Glaslough, a preserved lake that is popular for pike fishing.

Staying in an Irish castle

With miles of trails to suit both equestrian and pedestrian excursions, Castle Leslie offers a unique, historic getaway.

The castle was even the backdrop for Sir Paul McCartney’s wedding to Heather Mills. Request the Red Room where he stayed on the night of their marriage. Or stay in the luxurious Blue Room, as we did.

Rest assured that your deluxe bathroom will be en-suite, as this was the first establishment in Ireland to enjoy indoor plumbing. Happily, the bathrooms still feature historic fixtures with a few modern updates. Chosen by McCool Travel.

Dordogne tree house, France

France’s Dordogne is a delicious part of France to visit both for the natural beauty and for the number of French products that can be enjoyed there. As if all that isn’t reason enough to go, you can also stay in some of the most unique accommodation in France. 

Stay in a treehouse in Dordogne

Châteaux dans les Arbes are tree houses that are uniquely built to look like the real castles that dot the cliff tops along the Dordogne River.

You’ll want for nothing in these luxury treehouses, complete with private jacuzzis on the deck of each treehouse. Homage is paid to the mouth-watering seasonal products of the Dordogne, with meals prepared by a local restaurant and catered right in your treehouse.

There’s plenty to do in the surrounding area from kayaking the Dordogne River to wine tasting in Bergerac or Monbazillac. Chosen by Luxe Adventure Traveler.

Native hut in Tibiao, Philippines

While backpacking across the Philippines, we stopped by the municipality of Tibiao in Antique. Tibiao has a very provincial feel – lots of farms, forest mountains and so on. We booked an overnight stay in a local native hut.

The hut is in itself very simple. There’s a mattress on the floor and an adjoining toilet, and that’s it. But we loved it.

The hut is located beside a river, so it’s easy to be lulled to sleep with the sound of gushing water. It’s also very cool despite the lack of an electric fan.

We kept the window open and saw a very clear starry sky. It’s one of the most memorable stays we’ve had in all our travels. Chosen by Tara Lets Anywhere.

Timbivati Game Reserve Tree House, Kruger

My husband and I celebrated our tenth anniversary with a bucket list trip to Africa. While staying in the Timbivati Game Reserve bordering Kruger National Park, we had the opportunity to spend the night in a bona fide treehouse overlooking a watering hole.

The staff at our camp supplied us with strict instructions not to leave the treehouse and gave us a radio for emergencies, but otherwise, it was up to us to pass the night.

At one point, we looked out to see the most beautiful moonlit white rhino taking a midnight sip of water. It was truly an experience to remember. Chosen by We Go With Kids.

Japanese Temple Koya-san, Japan

As far as unique accommodation goes, staying in a Japanese temple is right up there. We decided to stay in one in the town of Koya-san, a religious community.

Using a website called Japanese Guest Houses, we discovered several temples in town and settled on one called Shojoshin, a working Japanese temple where everything is traditional Japanese; tatami floor mats, bedding on the floor, robes and no shoes.

Staying at a Japanese Temple

At registration, the monk advised us that morning prayer would take place at 6 am. “How quaint”, I thought. I assumed he was telling me this so I wouldn’t be surprised so early with the sound of chanting monks. Little did I know he actually expected us to attend services.

The following morning, we dutifully appeared at the 45-minute service and found it quite beautiful and mellow.

The next big surprise was the multi-course Japanese style vegetarian dinner. It is called a kaiseki ryori and is very elaborate, sometimes consisting of over 20 different, small dishes.

The best part of the stay was the visit to Okunoin cemetery right next door. This 1200-year-old cemetery is the largest and oldest. It offers night tours which make for a fascinating experience as you absorb the local culture.  Chosen by Travels with Talek.

Underground Hotel, Coober Pedy

Recently we stayed in an underground hotel in the Outback of Australia. The tiny town of Coober Pedy is best known for its opal mines and for its underground homes, called dugouts.

The town residents keep cool in the scorching summer heat by digging out their homes from the rocky hills and enjoying the natural air conditioning of being below ground.

There are lots of hotels in town where travellers can get a taste of underground living. We stayed at the Comfort Inn Coober Pedy and it was a really neat experience. In addition to being a great escape from the heat, it made sleeping in really easy. Chosen by 5 Lost Together.

Maldives scuba diving liveaboard

The Maldives is an archipelago of thousands of islands, and one of the best ways to explore this island nation is by doing a scuba diving liveaboard. We spent 7 wonderful days on the Emperor Leo’ in The Maldives.

The boat was our cosy home base room for a week, while we navigated this beautiful paradise. There’s nothing quite as special as falling asleep every night on a yacht in the middle of the ocean.

Even better, we had a chance to explore what the Maldives is famous for, underwater beauty. Chosen by The Round The World Guys.

Our Jungle House, Thailand

Our Jungle House just outside of Khao Sok National Park is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Thailand’s wild jungles.

The rainforest in which Our Jungle House sits leads right to a river abutting a giant cliffside, all of which can be seen from your bungalow or treehouse.

The sounds of the surrounding nature float through the air, from Great Hornbills to giant cicadas, and of course, macaques and gibbons.

Staying in a treehouse Thailand

Our Jungle House provides a unique jungle experience in that the bungalows and treehouses are open to the jungle itself.

Their commitment to being eco-friendly is perfect for those who wish to spend their trip unplugged, as only the restaurant has wi-fi and no air conditioning is on-site – don’t worry, though, as tubes can be rented to cool off in the river.

The resort has everything you would need for your visit, including a delicious restaurant and bar offering up a variety of tasty Thai and Western meals. Only a fifteen-minute walk away is the entrance to Khao Sok National Park, where you can hike and explore on your own.

Excursions can be booked directly with Our Jungle House, including bird watching tours, nocturnal wildlife tours, hiking, and much more! Chosen by Expedition Wildlife.

Henry VIII, Thornbury Castle, Bristol 

Henry VIII, Thornbury Castle, just outside of Bristol, England, is the perfect place to step back in time and feel like a member of the Royal family.

Dating back to the 10th Century, Thornbury offers individually decorated rooms containing four-poster beds and period furniture.

Its grand sitting room is the perfect setting to enjoy a classic Bristol gin cocktail before heading to dinner in the castle’s dungeon.

Don’t worry, head chef Andrew Chan won’t be serving bread and water, rather quite the opposite with his focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Stang in a castle Bristol

Guests enjoy world-class meals, fit for a king. For a further taste of Tudor life, Thornbury offers guests the opportunity to try their hand at archery on their beautifully manicured lawns and for the brave at heart, falconry.

Not everything at Thornbury is a trip to the past. If you are looking for an escape, Thornbury offers a range of treatments and massages in its state of the art spa.

Located about 25 minutes outside the centre of Bristol, Thornbury Castle is a unique hotel experience with the perfect combination of the past and the present.  Chosen by With husband in tow. 

Samode Palace Hotel, India

You can live like a Maharaja or Maharani in India!  Many former palaces and merchant houses (havelis) have been turned into heritage hotels.

One of my favourites is Samode Palace Hotel. This 475-year-old palace is the former residence of a maharaja.  Today is an opulent hotel.

The entrance is up to a steep driveway and through an arched entrance just big enough for an elephant and rider.  You will be greeted with the traditional bindi on your forehead and a refreshing drink while you are checking in.

Staying in a palace in India

Rooms are individual, but all of them are beautiful.  You can take a tour of the palace when you stay there and see the Darbar Hall, hand-painted in intricate designs, and the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors).

There are several courtyards within courtyards, as well as an outdoor pool area, and tiled and painted lounges in which to relax.  You will feel like you have stepped back in time.

For special events, the stairs are lined with colourful fresh flower petals and flaming torches, and the building is lit with designs created by thousands of tiny fairy lights.

This is a truly magical place. The palace is 40 km north of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. Chosen by Travel Collecting.

Snow Hotel, Norway  

Travelling to Norway in the dead of winter is a cold affair. Going to see the Northern Lights often means hours of waiting in the middle of the night for the light to appear. If that isn’t cold enough, try staying at the Snow Hotel Kirkenes. 

What is the Snow Hotel? It’s a hotel made of ice. Located in Kirkenes, Norway, the hotel is a very large igloo with 20 rooms. It is only open in the winter—it melts in the spring!

Ice sculptures come from around the world to do carvings in the hallways. There is even an ice bar with ice glasses for drinking.

Ice Hotel Norway

As far as sleeping, there are beds with sleeping bags. It can be cosy when you first get in and they recommended not wearing too many layers. In the morning when you wake up….well, it is a bit cold.

Fortunately, there is a building with saunas and hot showers right next door. A careful walk (the floors are ice) and you can defrost.

 You can also do some other activities while there—king crab fishing, viewing the Northern Lights, among other things. Chosen by Travel for life now. 

Hostel Celica, Ljubljana

Hostel Celica in the heart of Ljubljana in Slovenia offers a quirky touch that makes it more than your average budget hostel.

With the magic of art and inspiration, this former prison has turned into a colourful getaway for travellers, artists, and free spirits. It is proof that art can transform even the darkest place into something amazing.

Unique hostel Ljubljana

At Hostel Celica, your cell is assigned to you upon booking. Although you will be spending your sleeping hours behind bars.

This unique hostel has beautifully designed common areas for your waking hours. Meet your fellow inmates for a meal or a drink at the Slovene Gostilna Restaurant. Or maybe pop into the Western Cafe or the Oriental Cafe for a coffee.

For a bit of quiet contemplation and prayer, the Point of Peace has six niches for the 5 world religions.These include Christianism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and your own personal beliefs.

Take a look at the works of local and international artists at the Srecisce Art Gallery and perhaps wander into the basement to see evidence of Celica’s grim history in the Museum of Confinement. Chosen by Karolina Klesta.

Parador in Plasencia, Spain

Paradores in Spain are historic buildings that have been converted into luxury hotels. They are government-run and can be surprisingly affordable.

When you take into account not just the level of comfort provided but the opportunity to sleep inside a centuries-old convent, castle or fortress, a stay in a Parador is incredibly good value.

Staying in a Parador in Spain

The Parador in Plasencia, in the Extremadura region of Spain, is housed in a 15th-century building that was once the Santo Domingo Monastery.

Many of the monastery’s original architectural features have been preserved, such as the peaceful cloister, which is covered by a beautifully carved Mudejar ceiling.

Plasencia is well off the beaten track and sees very few foreign tourists, yet it is full of history and impressive architecture.

A stay here in the Parador is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the real, authentic Spain while experiencing a bit of luxury and history at the same time. Chosen by The Nomadic Vegan. 

Quirky places to stay

What do you think of this list of unique accommodation recommendations? Have you ever stayed in quirky accommodation on your travels? Let me know in the comments below!

Recommended travel resources

Flights: To find flight deals, check out sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare flight costs and book.

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Travel Insurance: I highly recommend you always get travel insurance – I use the Post Office Travel Insurance for single trip coverage and Safety Wing for comprehensive travel medical insurance.

Car Hire: I use Discover Cars to hire cars abroad as they have free cancellation, free mileage and no card fees.

Travel Money: I recommend Post Office Travel Money as you can get competitive rates and 0% commission for your holiday cash.

E-sim Cards: Use Airalo’s eSIM app to buy an eSIM for 200+ countries and stay connected when you travel abroad.

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