The whole idea of going on vacation is to go someplace different, see new things, have new experiences. And sometimes, a regular hotel just doesn't cut it. If you really want to have an out-of-the-box travel experience, book some time at one of these amazing, one-of-a-kind hotels. You'll never think the same way about holidays again.


Up Next: French Pyrenees

Location: Near Mirepoix (between Carcassonne and Foix), French Pyrenees
Details: This is for those of you who want to relive those old childhood camping experiences. Run by an Irish and French couple with a past life as circus artists, this unique home away from home is located near Mirepoix and features the only campsite full of Airstream caravans in Europe with breathtaking views. There's plenty to do, from walking and mountain biking in the forests and around the lakes, to hunting through local French villages...

Up Next: Ireland

Location: 3 miles east of Castlebaldwin, Ireland
Details: In a lot of ways, Ireland looks like you would imagine Middle Earth, and there's no better way to experience that than by staying in a 100ft-wide wooden ring-shaped home that looks like it came straight from the Shire. It boasts a cosy glass-domed library, open fireplace and a large movie screen so you can relive Frodo and Sam's adventures. There's plenty to do outside, too, as Sligo has a rich archaeological countryside for you to explore, and you can surf or walk in the Bricklieve mountains with a qualified guide. (And no, it's not Gollum!)
Up Next: South Africa

Location: Foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains, Garden Route, South Africa
Details: Awaken your inner Tarzan! High on the foothills is your own personal tented tree house, with the comfort and convenience of a fabulous bedroom, a fully-equipped kitchen and a leafy, luxury bathroom. The tree house even blends in with the forest. And there's no shortage of activities, either. You can swim in the Karatara river and have a picnic on its banks, hang out in the entertainment center and play games, or explore the forest gorge. One thing's for sure -- it'll be a vacation to remember.
Up Next: France

Location: La Rochegiron, Provence, France
Details: You wouldn't think of a windmill as being a fabulous place to stay, but this is a beautifully restored windmill from the 17th century, with top-quality materials, stone walls, exposed beamed ceilings, and overlooks lavender fields in the foothills of Haute Provence, just outside La Rochegiron. You can bike through town and check out the local markets, or relax in the garden and take a dip in the pool. Walking tours of the area are also highly recommended, as natural treasures await in this relatively untouched area of Provence.
Up Next: Italian Riviera

Location: Ventimiglia, Italian Riviera
Details: Nestled in the Ventimglia hinterland a few kilometers from the sea and the French border, this 13th century abandoned medieval village has been rehabilitated, with a permanent cultural center and a guesthouse. So what can you expect? Multiple rooms, a restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine with organic and locally-grown produce, a terrace perfect for sun tanning, the opportunity to go trekking, and the chance to learn pottery, cookery, yoga and massage.

Up Next: Turkey

Location: Cappadocia, Turkey
Details: When you think B&B, you usually think of a charming little Victorian with country style and croissants for breakfast. Not this eco-friendly spot! This 18-room cave hotel is actually located in a restored thousand-year-old Byzantine monastic retreat, and was recently used by Christian monks. But if you're worried there will be no hot water for your morning shower, relax. The cave is heated by solar panels and electricity comes from hydro electric sources. On top of that, the hotel kitchen uses organic produce, and you can even try your hand at yoga. Sounds like fun, no?
Up Next: Scotland

Location: Melvaig, Scottish Highlands
Details: This lighthouse will house 20 within its historic walls, which were erected in 1910 by a cousin of Robert Louis Stevenson. The views are stunning, with some of the finest mountain and coastal scenery around. Don't be surprised to see seals, sharks, dolphins, otters, and maybe even a whale will make an appearance for you. Visit the beaches, walk the cliffs and take in the historical sights to put the cap on this perfect getaway.

Up Next: France

Location: Dordogne Region of France
Details: If you're really looking to get away from the day to day rat race, book some time at this incredible cabin. There's no electricity, meaning you'll have to rely on solar power, candles and oil lamps when you're reading at night. The shower is heated by a wood burning stove, which is fueled by forest scraps. Waste is recycled and water use is regulated. You may go through some technological withdrawal... but it'll be worth it.

Up Next: Wales

Location: Machynlleth, Powys (in the heart of the Welsh Mountains)
Details: When you were a kid growing up, you probably played cowboys and Indians. Now's your chance to take part in the grown-up version. Here you'll find tipis and yurts decked out with beds in pure cotton and white linen spread out over a 1300-acre organic farm deep in the Dyfi Forest. You'll get the full retreat experience here, with organic fare, holistic therapies, a meditation tent and a visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology. And your showers? Fresh spring water.

Up Next: England

Location: 20 miles from Okehampton, Devon, England
Details: If you like uncrowded waterways, then you'll want to take a trip to North Devon, where you can charter a wide beam barge that has its own private jetty overlooking 35 acres of beautiful countryside. In addition to having a wood burning heat system, the boats are all solar powered and have water efficient toilets. Of course, you can fish for organic Rainbow Trout in the waters, or try horseback riding through the countryside when you're not enjoying a good book on the sun deck.

Up Next: More Lodging Stories

It's tempting to fill your days with activities and such, but few things feel as fabulous as finding a patch of deck somewhere away from the mel?e of other vacationers and soaking up some sun. Bonus points if you fall asleep ... just don't forget your sunscreen!


Up Next: Don't Do Everything

There's a ton of things to do on a cruise ship, from events and activities to stage shows to contests ... it can leave your mind reeling, especially if you try and cram it all into one trip. And if you try to do that, what will you do on your next cruise?


Up Next: Repeat Trip

Because really, you will want to do another one so you can repeat all the things you loved doing on your first trip and try all the things you didn't get the chance to on your second. Some people love cruising so much they don't ever get off the boat! A bonus? Sometimes if you book when you're on the trip or shortly thereafter, you can score some deals for being a repeat customer!

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