The Perch at Panguitch Lake

Unique Accommodations for Adventure Enthusiasts

Last Updated on April 6, 2024

Traveling is not just about the destination—it’s about the journey and the unique places you can stay along the way. I’ve always loved adventure, and for me, part of that excitement comes from finding accommodations that are out of the ordinary. 

 

Imagine falling asleep under the stars in a luxury desert camp or waking up in a treehouse surrounded by a lush jungle canopy. These aren’t just dreams; they are real places you can stay, offering not just a bed for the night but an entire experience.

 

As someone who thrives on seeking out thrilling new experiences, I know that the adventure begins the moment you step into a place you’ll be calling home, even if it’s just for a night. From the chilly allure of ice hotels to the novelty of underwater rooms that bring you face-to-fin with aquatic life, these accommodations are more than just a place to sleep—they’re an integral part of the adventure. 

 

In this article I will show you some types of unique accommodations that would definitely appeal to those looking for adventure. 

Key Takeaways

  • Unique accommodations add an extra layer of adventure to your travels.
  • The novelty of an unusual stay can make for unforgettable travel stories.
  • Adventure enthusiasts can find one-of-a-kind lodgings, from treehouses to underwater hotels.
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Exotic Treehouses

For me, there’s something truly special about tucking away into an exotic treehouse. It’s the mix of being in nature, unique designs, and unspoiled settings that makes them stand out.

 

Jungle Canopy Retreats

In these elevated escapes, you will find yourself immersed in the lush foliage of towering trees. A jungle canopy retreat often features wide decks or balconies that place me amidst the symphony of wildlife. 

 

Mountain Top Havens

Some treehouses are located at mountain tops and open up a world where panoramic views meet the tranquility of high altitudes. I enjoy treehouses perched in the hills. The thought of breathing in the fresh mountain air from my private treehouse getaway is exhilarating enough to start planning my next adventure.

Underwater Hotels

Imagine snoozing with the fishes—literally. I’m talking about the surreal experience of staying in an underwater hotel, where you get to witness the wonders of marine life right from the comfort of your bed. I know it sounds crazy but these type of hotels are gaining popularity around the world. 

 

Coral Reef Escapes

Have you ever wanted to wake up to a colorful reef and a school of fish gliding by your window? That’s what a night in an underwater hotel offers. Places like the Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Florida take you 21 feet beneath the surface in what was once a research lab. 

 

You have to scuba dive to get there, but the view? Unbeatable.

 

  • Location: Key Largo, Florida
  • Depth: 21 feet underwater
  • Accessibility: Scuba diving required
  • Rooms: 2 bedrooms, plus a common area

Submerged Luxury Suites

If you’re more about the posh life beneath the waves, luxury underwater suites are your jam. The Muraka in the Maldives is a perfect example. It’s a two-level residence with the lower level sitting 16 feet underwater, giving you the most exclusive peep into the aquatic world right from your bed. 

 

  • Examples:

    • The Muraka, Maldives
    • Manta Resort, Pemba Island
  • Features:

    • Two-level residences
    • Private underwater views
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Ice Hotels and Igloos

When I think about unique places to stay, ice hotels and igloos are at the top of my list. They’re not just accommodations; they’re bucket list-worthy experiences that combine art, nature, and adventure.

 

Picture yourself snuggled in a thermal sleeping bag surrounded by walls of intricately carved ice, with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights dance across the sky. That’s exactly what you get at places like the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Norway

 

They even sculpt a new design each year, which means even if you’ve been there before, you’re greeted with a new wintery art masterpiece every visit.

Desert Glamping

When I think of glamping, I envision the fusion of glamorous amenities with the rustic charm of camping. 

 

In the heart of the desert, my idea of a luxury sanctuary is a well-appointed safari tent. Places like Sedona Safari Tents offer spacious tents with amenities that rival a hotel room. 

 

Imagine waking up on a plush bed to the sight of red rock canyons, or unwinding in a private hot tub under the vast desert sky.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique stays that offer an adrenaline rush for adventure seekers?

I can’t get enough of the idea of sleeping with sharks at underwater hotels. There’s nothing quite like dozing off as marine life glides past your bedroom window. Think of destinations like the Maldives, where you can immerse yourself in the aquatic world from the comfort of your bed.

 

Can you suggest any hotels that provide a truly unique experience?

Certainly! For a truly magical stay, consider Sedona’s Orchard Canyon on Oak Creek, which offers cabins with enchanting views and a tranquil vibe. Or opt for the opulence of the El Portal Sedona Hotel, wrapping the red rock vistas into a luxurious package. 

 

Where can I find interesting accommodations that are perfect for thrill-seeking couples?

If you and your partner are yearning for a combination of romance and adventure, canvas tents at Under Canvas Grand Canyon could be your perfect hideaway. Open from April to October, this glamping spot is one of the most unique places to stay, letting you soak in the outdoors with a dash of comfort. The safari-inspired tents are a honeymoon dream for adventurous couples.

 

What are the most insane hotel rooms that one should not miss?

For an out-of-this-world stay, book a room that defies conventional. A prime example is the Explora resort, set in Torres del Paine, which offers more than 50 different outdoor activities. Its distinctive location and adventurous atmosphere make it an insane destination for thrill-seekers.

 

Are there resorts that combine unique stays with adventurous activities?

Absolutely. Adventure resorts like Explora allow me to indulge in hiking, horseback riding, and a host of other activities right on the doorstep of my lodge. Located near staggering peaks and pristine lakes, such resorts are havens for outdoor enthusiasts craving for adventure-packed lodges.

 

What options are there for experiential accommodations with a touch of luxury?

Luxury doesn’t have to exclude adventure. I’ve come across places that offer glamorous safari tents and eco-friendly pods that redefine indulgence in the wild. My favorite picks are the luxury outdoor accommodations designed for those who crave comfort amidst their quest for adventure.

Antonio Cala

Antonio was born and raised in Southern Spain, and quit his job in 2013 to travel the world full-time with his wife Amanda for 10 years straight. Their passion for adventure took them to visit 150+ countries.


They cycled 25,000km + from California to Patagonia, sailed over 10,000NM around the Caribbean & Sea of Cortez, rode their motorbikes 30,000 kms+ across West Africa (Spain to South Africa) and visited Antarctica, among many other adventure expeditions.


Today, they’re currently working their way to visit every state and National Park in the USA traveling with an RV.


Together they run the popular newsletter Adventure Fix, the travel community Summit, the resource-based portal Adventure Travel Hub, and their latest venture, Unique Places, where they share their knowledge about the places they’ve visited and the ones still remaining on their list.

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