10 Unique Hotel Destinations You Should Explore
When it comes to planning a holiday, we often find ourselves gravitating towards tried-and-tested destinations. While places like New York, Paris and Bali have undeniable charm, there's a world of captivating and unique hotel locations that travellers often overlook. If you're looking to head off the beaten path and experience something far from ordinary, we've compiled a list of ten incredible hotel destinations you probably haven't considered before.
La Mamounia – Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a treasure trove of history and culture—a city of sprawling souks, winding alleyways and spellbinding architecture worthy of your bucket list. Nestled within the heart of Morocco's Red City, La Mamounia is a 100-year-old palace hotel that blends traditional Moroccan elegance and modern luxury. This unique hotel, located close to Morocco's vibrant medina, offers an indulgent oasis with four restaurants, four bars, a wellness spa with two traditional hammams, and a luxurious range of rooms, suites and riads, each with a heated swimming pool and private terrace, making it one of the top hotels in Marrakech.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/lamamouniamarrakech/
Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane, Australia
Often overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane is a city quietly gaining traction as a must-visit destination, boasting a balmy subtropical climate, a thriving cultural scene, and a stunning riverside setting. Crystalbrook Vincent is the obvious choice when planning your Brisbane escape as one of the top hotels in Brisbane. This 5-star boutique hotel sits alongside Brisbane River in the Howard Smith Wharves, offering luxury accommodation, a glamorous rooftop bar and pool and unique dining experiences.
San Domenico Palace, Taormina, Italy
Italy is the ultimate summer destination, with iconic cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence often stealing the limelight. With its enchanting mediaeval streets, the warm waters of the Ionian Sea lapping at its shores, and Mount Etna in the distance, Taormina on Sicily's east coast, is a gem that deserves attention. Plan a stay at San Domenico Palace, perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque town, a former 14th-century convent turned luxury hotel featuring a cliff top infinity pool, lush Italian gardens, and Michelin-starred dining.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/fstaormina/
Vermelho Hotel, Melides, Portugal
Away from the bustle of the capital city, Melides—a serene coastal town south of Lisbon— is another destination to include on your holiday radar. Its unspoiled beaches, pine forests, and peaceful atmosphere provide an ideal escape from touristy destinations and the perfect place to experience the untouched beauty of Portugal. For a tranquil beach getaway, head to Vermelho Hotel, a unique 5-star Portugal hotel featuring just thirteen individually-designed luxury rooms, each filled with distinctive artworks, luxurious amenities and the finest local craftsmanship.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/hotelvermelho/
Trebartha East, Ahangama, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka may be a top travel destination, but lesser-known Ahangama on the southwest coast offers a truly unique experience. This sleepy fishing village is known for its surf breaks, stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. It's a paradise for surfers and those seeking a quiet nature retreat, and Trebartha East The Roundhouse offers the best of both worlds. This tropical oasis, located atop a 12-acre cinnamon plantation and a 10-minute drive from the beach, features 360-degree views of rice paddies, lush jungle and the Indian Ocean. The unique hotel is a must-visit with its circular shape, 18m curved infinity pool, four luxury rooms with sweeping views and an all-day kitchen serving an array of Sri Lankan specialities.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/trebarthaeast/
Blue Lagoon, Grindavík, Iceland
While Iceland is known for its natural wonders, the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík takes relaxation to a new level with its serene landscapes, geothermal waters, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights. For the ultimate luxury hotel experience, stay at the award-winning Retreat Hotel with modern and minimalist suites, a subterranean spa, Michelin-starred dining, and a private lagoon sourced from the same healing waters as the Blue Lagoon.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/bluelagoonis/
The Hotelito, Todos Santos, Mexico
While Cabo San Lucas and Cancun are some of the country's most popular beach destinations, Todos Santos offers a more authentic Mexican experience. The town—a haven for creatives and those looking to escape the crowds— sits on the Tropic of Cancer and is known for its thriving arts scene, surf spots and white sand beaches. The Hotelito offers the perfect escape on the Baja Peninsula, with colourful casitas, private terraces with hammocks and a tranquil pool area.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/hotelitohacienda/
Limeri, Monolithos, Greece
For a more secluded experience away from the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini, head to Monolithos on the Greek Island of Rhodes. This hidden gem is best known for its quaint blue and white village, lively tavernas, stunning views, and the mediaeval castle perched on the hillside. Limeri sits on the fringes of Akramiti Mountain, offering a luxurious guesthouse stay with Rhodian-style rooms with views overlooking the rugged landscape and striking blue hues of the Aegean Sea and a restaurant serving up wood-fired bread, local cheese and authentic Greek delights.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/limeri.monolithos/
Les Cactus, Palm Springs, United States
While LA often takes centre stage, Palm Springs is a Hollywood hideaway offering the ultimate desert retreat, with its tranquil landscape, natural hot springs, mid-century modern architecture, stylish boutiques and relaxed desert vibe. Situated just 5 minutes from downtown Palm Springs, Les Cactus is a unique hotel that dates back to the 1930s, featuring 27 whimsical rooms, a salt-water pool and hot tub, and a chilled atmosphere that captures the essence of the California desert.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/lescactusps/
Montaña Mágica Lodge, Panguipulli, Chile
Head off the beaten path and discover Panguipulli— a small city tucked away in southern Chile. Just south of the city, nestled within the lush rainforest of Huilo Natural Reserve, is Montaña Mágica Lodge—a whimsical mountain-shaped hotel that offers a remote and one-of-a-kind experience. Entered via a monkey bridge, this unique hotel, with a waterfall running down the side, features super cosy hotel rooms, outdoor hot tubs and easy access to a range of activities, including the longest zipline in South America.
Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/huilohuilo_reservabiologica/
Venturing beyond the usual travel hotspots can lead to incredible discoveries and memorable experiences. From the vibrant markets of Marrakech to the pristine beaches of Melides and the enchanting rainforests of Chile, these unique hotel destinations offer a chance to take the road less travelled and immerse yourself in a whole new world.