Are you tired of traditional hotel rooms and resorts? This list will be perfect for your needs. If we call a hotel “unique,” we’re not just talking about its appearance. The following are the world’s most unusual, extraordinary, and jaw-dropping places to stay.
Imagine waking up to the Northern Lights from a cozy glass igloo. Envision sleeping in a treehouse, surrounded by curious jungle animals. Or consider a stay in a luxury suite carved from a cave. It’s these unique features that make a hotel stand out.
What makes these hotels even more memorable is the level of service they provide. Unique hotels are not just about their location or appearance. They also know how to treat guests like royalty. Warm hospitality, thoughtful touches, and small surprises will make you feel as though the hotel was built with you in mind.
That’s not all! Private Upgrades unlock exclusive benefits to elevate your vacation experience. Imagine VIP access, room upgrades, resort credit, and flexible check-in. These hotels await you if you are ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
The List: 12 Unforgettable, Truly Unique Hotels
Below are 12 of the most exclusive hotels on the planet.
Asia & Indian Ocean
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp
Imagine waking up to see elephants roaming outside your window. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp is one of the most unusual hotels in Thailand.
The uniqueness of this resort lies in its ability to blend luxury with an intimate connection to nature. On the Ruak River Plain, you can enjoy a leisurely walk with wildlife. These animals are looking for shrubs and leaves. The elephants are then bathed and watered by a local expert.
Other highlights include gliding down the Mekong River on a longtail boat or relaxing in your pool at sunset. Additionally, the Jungle Bubble is available to guests. Guests can immerse themselves in Thailand’s tropical rainforest and marvel at its lush beauty.
However, for the ultimate experience, book the Jungle Bubble Lodge. This lodge, as its name suggests, was built to place guests right in the middle of the jungle. There, they can interact with and observe rescued elephants up close.
The best time to visit is during the cooler, dry months of November through February. Private helicopter transfers from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai directly to the resort are also available. Plus, enjoy a 100 USD hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, and a chance for an upgrade on arrival with PrivateUpgrades.
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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers the opportunity to experience sleeping underwater. The resort stands out by providing three unique experiences across two islands.
You can enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the world by diving into the crystal-clear waters. You can also dine in Ithaa (the famous underwater restaurant) and sail through the lagoon during sunset.
Moreover, the Muraka underwater villa is perfect for those seeking the ultimate adventure. This is the most luxurious place in the entire world. The two-story, three-bedroom mansion suspends above and beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean. The master bedroom is submerged more than 16 feet below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
The best time to visit is from November to April, when the climate is dry and sunny. Besides, seaplane transfers make your journey to Malé feel more like an adventure. You’ll also get a 100 USD hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, and an upgrade on arrival (if available) through PrivateUpgrades.
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St. Regis Maldives Vommuli
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers island life at its best. The 77 suites, estates, and villas blend modern design with local craftsmanship. This creates an architectural masterpiece.
Its bold and modern architecture is what makes this resort so unique. The resort’s design includes all the ecological zones of Vommuli. This means it features lagoons, beaches, jungles, and coastal areas.
Visit Vommuli House for a new experience on your Maldives trip. You can choose from trampoline exercise, anti-gravity yoga, or even acupuncture. Or, you can leave your kids in the Children’s Club for a fun afternoon while enjoying some time alone on the beach.
Moreover, Whale Bar offers a spectacular view of the sunset. This chic bar features seafood, sundowners, and multi-course meals. It enhances the colorful skies above.
For the ultimate experience, book the John Jacob Astor Estate, a three-bedroom villa. This overwater villa is named for its founder, John Jacob Astor.
However, if you’re looking for calm waters and clear skies, the ideal time to visit this resort is between December and April. Besides, you can make your trip to the island even better. Get a 300 USD hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, and an upgrade on arrival (subject to availability) with PrivateUpgrades.
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Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
Mandarin Oriental Singapore is a Marina Bay hotel that stands out for its exceptional Singaporean design. Its atrium lobby offers a panoramic view of the hotel’s top floors.
The unique design of the central atrium, which mimics the hotel’s fan-shaped logo, is what makes this place so special. When the hotel opened its doors in 1987, it was a modern and stylish establishment. Now, the central atrium has a fresh feel.
Moreover, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool, surrounded by lush vegetation. You can also sample Cantonese food at Cherry Garden. Try the five-grain rice with sausages, pumpkin golden soup, and steamed garoupa topped with pickled peppers.
Additionally, the hotel’s Four-Star Spa provides the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Highly recommended is the spa’s Oriental Essence signature massage.
Book the Marina Bay Suite for the ultimate stay. This suite is stunning, featuring quadruple-glazed, floor-to-ceiling windows. The windows offer expansive views of the bay and skyline. The Marina Bay Suite also offers complete rest and peace, with its décor featuring soothing colors and a private patio.
Furthermore, the hotel is easily accessible, as it is just a 20-minute drive from Changi International Airport. The atmosphere is wonderful during Singapore’s New Year’s fireworks on the bay.
Moreover, enhance your stay with a 135 USD Food & Beverage Credit, a Daily Buffet Breakfast for two, plus early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability) through PrivateUpgrades.
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Europe & Middle East
Taj Lake Palace
This eighteenth-century palace is a real jewel of Lake Pichola. It is made up of a series of courtyards, halls, and pavilions, all inlaid with stone, gilt molding, and mirrors.
This white marble palace, built in the 18th century, seems to rise out of the water on Lake Pichola, like castles from storybooks. The hotel also offers cultural performances, guided heritage tours, and astrology sessions. Moreover, a fitness center with a hot/cold pool and spa is available 24 hours a day. A shopping arcade, games area, and business center are also available.
The Historical Suites are among the best areas on the property to sleep. These suites offer a warm and welcoming ambiance. They also have marble floors and Rajasthani paintings. Sheer fabric also allows sunlight to illuminate each room.
However, you should know that you can only reach the palace by taking a small wooden boat. It is best to visit between October and March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
Besides, when you book through PrivateUpgrades, you get great perks! Enjoy lunch or dinner for two on one occasion during your stay. Plus, you’ll have a daily breakfast for two. You’ll also receive an upgrade on arrival and enjoy early check-in and late check-out, but these are subject to availability.
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Ashford Castle
The Ashford Castle Hotel is in County Mayo, Ireland. It offers top-class royal treatment. This hotel, which has stood for more than 800 years, was once home to the Guinness family.
This 800-year-old castle offers a wide range of activities to showcase the Irish countryside. Visitors can enjoy falconry, where birds of prey are trained to land on their arms. They can also take part in a two-hour scenic cruise that includes a visit to Inchagoill Island.
Moreover, the Hideaway Cottage is the perfect place to stay for an unforgettable vacation. This cottage sits on the shores of Lough Corrib. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This cottage was once a boathouse from the Guinness era. It features original stonework as well as fireplace lintels.
You can reach Ashford Castle in forty minutes by car from Galway and Westport. This makes it a great base to explore Ireland’s West. Visit at the beginning of fall. Plus, you’ll enjoy a magical stay at this castle. You get a 100 USD Food & Beverage Credit, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade on arrival, and early check-in and late check-out (if available) through PrivateUpgrades.
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Aman Venice
This hotel is the home of high society soirées dating back to the 16th century. This former Palazzo Papadopoli is a grand Baroque building. It features Rococo and Neo-Renaissance decorations, along with original frescoes.
Additionally, it is one of the few hotels in Venice that still has its waterside garden. Although the garden is lovely in its own right, it’s just one example of how the property offers peace and tranquility.
Moreover, you can enjoy private gondola tours through the canals. Furthermore, the restaurant Arva offers creative, seasonal dishes, many of which are not found anywhere else in Venice. Guests may also enjoy cocktails while watching the wildlife from the garden terrace.
Additionally, the Canal Grande Suite offers the ultimate experience. It provides an unobstructed front-row view directly above the palazzo’s entrance.
Additionally, if you’re planning to stay at Aman Venice, it is recommended that you visit during the spring and autumn shoulder seasons. These seasons offer a pleasant climate, fewer crowds, and a beautiful landscape. Transfers by boat are also available.
Plus, enjoy the best Venetian experience with a 100 USD food and beverage credit through PrivateUpgrades. You’ll also get daily breakfast for two, an upgrade on arrival, early check-in, and late check-out.
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Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco
The place itself is not a large hotel, but its other aspects are impressive. Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco’s intimate hotel section is a small part of its bucolic setting. The 900-year-old agricultural estate, spanning over 5,000 acres, provides a stunning backdrop.
The resort’s own winery produces rich red Brunello di Montalcino vintages. Moreover, the La Canonica Cooking School offers classes in authentic Tuscan cooking. It is inside what used to be the village rectory.
The hotel also features its own golf course, where guests can enjoy a round of golf. It is the only private club in Italy. This property also offers tours of its wine cellar and winery.
The Borgo Suite is the best choice for a remarkable stay. This suite has one bedroom and exudes Tuscan flair. The interiors brighten the space and feature stylish Italian furniture.
The estate is only a 2-hour drive away from Florence. Additionally, from September 26 to 30, guests are invited to participate in the annual grape harvest. Furthermore, PrivateUpgrades invites you to live your Tuscan dream in style. Enjoy a daily 100 USD food and beverage credit, breakfast for two, an upgrade on arrival, and early check-in and late check-out if available.
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The Americas & Caribbean
Post Ranch Inn
The Post Ranch Inn is a luxury hotel on the Central Coast. It has won many awards for its outstanding service and views. It perches high above the Central Coast cliffs. This inn boasts one of the most spectacular locations on Earth.
Stargazing with powerful scopes is possible during the guided astronomy night. Yoga classes with private instructors and heated swimming pools are also available.
Moreover, the Pacific Suite will make your stay unforgettable. This suite features a unique Pacific Ocean view, private entrances, and custom-built furniture. It also has a wood-burning stove, radiant-heated flooring, and a fireplace.
Post Ranch Inn’s adults-only policy makes it a perfect getaway for couples. The scenic Highway 1 is the only route to get there. Additionally, you can enjoy a unique experience with a $100 food and beverage credit. You can also enjoy a daily breakfast for two, an upgrade upon arrival, and complimentary early check-in and late check-out. These perks are available through PrivateUpgrades, subject to availability.
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Amangiri
Amangiri and Camp Sarika blend into the red rock landscape on over 900 acres of the Colorado Plateau. They reflect two aspects of ancient desert terrain.
Many consider this property to be Aman Resorts’ crown jewel. It consistently ranks in the top three of the ultra-luxury portfolio. The property is also a magnet for celebrities, such as Ivanka Trump and the Kardashians.
Moreover, hot air balloons can take guests over canyons. The balloon flights take off at sunrise from the hotel, offering spectacular views over the 600-acre wilderness.
You can explore Amangiri’s 600 acres of wilderness on foot with the help of a private guide. Guests may also relax in the Aman Spa, which includes a water pavilion.
Additionally, the Amangiri Suite is the best choice for a truly unforgettable stay. This suite features a private pool and sun deck, as well as outdoor dining areas. It also offers views of the Utah desert.
There are several ways to reach Amangiri, including flights from Page Municipal Airport and a road trip from Las Vegas. Outdoor adventures can be enjoyed during the cool months, from October to April. Besides, the hotel provides a 100 USD Food & Beverage Credit through PrivateUpgrades. You also receive daily breakfast for two, an upgrade upon arrival, and early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability.
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Jade Mountain Resort
Jade Mountain, St. Lucia, is a shining example of innovation in design. Individual bridges lead to each sanctuary, allowing access to the infinity pools. Rugged stone columns also soar high into the air.
The “sanctuaries,” or rooms, are the hotel’s special features. Everyone is their own private oasis, with a pool that appears to float in the distance.
Moreover, skilled snorkelers can take guided boat trips to explore snorkeling sites in the area. The Jade Mountain Club also offers organic farm-to-table cuisine and an infinity pool with a view that extends into the distance.
The Galaxy Sanctuary is the ultimate way to experience luxury. Galaxy Sanctuary infinity pools are found at the following sanctuaries: JC1, JD1, JE1. These are at the southwestern corner of Jade Mountain. They provide stunning panoramic views and the largest space, averaging 2,000 square feet. Additionally, there’s an infinity swimming pool measuring 900 square feet.
The resort was designed with couples in mind, so the ideal time to go is between December and April.
Jade Mountain Resort also offers perks through Private Upgrades. You get a 100 USD hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, and an upgrade upon arrival. If you stay for 6 nights or more, you will receive an additional 100 USD credit. Early check-in and late check-out are available, subject to availability.
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Jade Mountain Resort is one of the most popular hotels in the world, and it's easy to see why. Its stunning location in the Caribbean
Four Seasons Hualalai
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is situated on the Pacific Ocean. It is framed by black lava terrain and white sand beaches. It epitomizes all the charm of a Big Island premier resort. This property is also perfectly positioned to enjoy a wide range of island and resort adventures.
Moreover, it’s family-friendly and has an optional Kids for All Seasons program. This program allows children aged 5 to 12 to explore the tropical resort. They can enjoy fun activities like building volcanoes and participating in treasure hunts. In the resort’s swimming pool, kids can also learn basic scuba techniques.
Guests can also enjoy a private King’s Pond made of lava rocks and learn to play hula and the ukulele in a cultural lesson. They can also relax at the spa, which uses Native American healing techniques.
The Kahuwai is the perfect suite for an unforgettable vacation. It is an oceanfront suite featuring two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a spacious living room, and more.
Furthermore, you’ll be happy to learn that this resort is only a few minutes from the Kona International Airport. Winter is also a great time to observe migrating humpback whales. Humpbacks start arriving in Hawaii by mid-fall. Whale watching also becomes more successful as the seasons advance.
Four Seasons Hualalai provides a 100 USD hotel credit through PrivateUpgrades.. Guests also get a daily breakfast credit of 45 USD per person for two at Ulu Ocean Grill. Additionally, there’s an upgrade available upon arrival, as well as early check-in & late check-out, both subject to availability.
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Rosewood Little Dix Bay
Rosewood Little Dix Bay sits on Virgin Gorda’s third-largest island, set across 500 acres with pristine beachfront. The island also boasts breathtaking vegetation and fauna.
The fact that Queen Elizabeth and her family enjoyed vacationing there is what makes this place so unique.
The half-mile-long crescent beach is a great place to relax, or you can take a swim in either of the two pools. There is also a 2-tiered infinity pool and outdoor relaxation areas. Moreover, a hilltop platform for yoga, as well as eight treatment rooms, is available. The spa also offers Caribbean-inspired treatments. It uses local botanicals.
The Columbus House Villa is the perfect place to stay for a truly unforgettable experience. It is a 2-bedroom villa nestled by the beach. This villa features spacious rooms and luxurious amenities. For those who enjoy cooking, a modern kitchen is fully equipped with all the necessary appliances.
Additionally, you’ll be pleased to learn that the resort can be reached by small aircraft or boat, which adds to its exclusivity. Winter is also the time of year when most people visit.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay also offers a variety of benefits. You’ll receive a 250 USD hotel credit for the 2 Bedroom Suite at Columbus Beach House and Laurance Beach House. Villa guests receive a 400 USD hotel credit. Also included are daily full American breakfasts for two and an upgrade on arrival, based on availability, through PrivateUpgrades.
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How PrivateUpgrades Perks Work
PrivateUpgrades offers a unique VIP experience for every booking. You can expect the following:
- VIP Status. You will receive upgrades upon arrival, a daily complimentary breakfast, and 100+ USD Hotel Credit.
- Exclusive members-only promotions for free nights.
- 24-hour Travel Designer Service with a Price Parity Promise for Peace of Mind.
- Sign-up is free and easy.
Sign up now to experience the difference your next hotel stay will make.
