Most of us associate a stay in a cottage with a classic Czech chalet, the ever-present smell of wood, and a modest but cozy interior. Here at Cottage Daisy we have modernized this concept and built a house where you can enjoy camp life in the middle of nature with the comforts and amenities of today.
However, we are not the only ones who have taken holiday accommodation to a new level. In recent years we have seen the growth of glamping. It’s luxury camping for those who wish to stay in close contact with nature but don’t want to sacrifice their comfort. The result is a
unique accommodation that can be found worldwide. In this article, we present our selection of the world’s top 10 most interesting cottages and hotels.
10. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Sodankylä, Finland
Have you ever dreamed of sleeping in an igloo as a child? In Finland, you can make this dream come true. This resort is just above the Arctic Circle, 5 km from the Urho Kekkonen National Park. The facility consists of glass-domed houses that can accommodate 2-4 people. Apart from enjoying views of the Northern Lights, you can relax in the sauna or go on a reindeer safari. For the more adventurous, you can spend the night in a real snow igloo built by the hotel. The temperature here in winter is around -3°C, but guests are provided with a warm sleeping bag and clothing.
9. Free Spirit Spheres – Vancouver Island, Canada
Let’s stick to childhood dreams. A tree house is every child’s fantasy. This has inspired several architects to create glamping homes. In Canada, for example, you can enjoy nature from above in one of three spherical cabins suspended high in the trees in the rainforests of Vancouver Island. Inside each cabin is a living room that can be converted into a bedroom for sleeping. The cabins are heated and have a power supply. There are even speakers that you can connect to your own device to enjoy undisturbed relaxation in the middle of the wilderness.
8. Dragon’s Nest – Bali, Indonesia
This dragon-themed villa is unique, especially for its exterior. The main feature is its two-level swimming pool, which is connected by a water slide and includes a small cave. The “Dragon’s Nest” offers, among other things, a panoramic view of the surrounding wildlife. The rustic interior is also impressive, giving the whole building a fairytale feel. Not only will you fall in love with this place, but you will also have original photos to take home as a souvenir.
7. De Bossche Kraan – ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
In the Netherlands, you have the unique opportunity to spend the night 12 meters above the ground in a converted harbor crane. Stylishly decorated and with breakfast included. But what’s the best thing about this accommodation? The crane is fully functional and operable, so you can change the view to your heart’s content! Want a view of the Old Town, the river, or the industrial area? Just go to the control room and rotate your entire room in the direction you want.
6. Vila Atri – Brålanda, Sweden
A stay in this cottage is ideal for those who want to get completely away from the civilization. It is designed to be completely self-sufficient. Not only does it generate its electricity, but it also has its greenhouse. Unique spaces, including a large winter garden, give the property a unique character. Combined with the tranquillity and unspoiled Swedish countryside, it’s a place you won’t want to leave.
5. Upside-down house – Harlingen, Netherlands
If the world sometimes seems a bit upside down to you, don’t go to Harlingen. There’s a holiday home for rent in the local marina that looks as if it’s been standing on its roof. In reality, the artistic effect is only visible from the outside; inside you will find modern amenities, a hot tub, and a beautiful view of the Wadden Sea.
4. Symphony Resort – Rasnov, Romania
If you’re a fan of art, and music, or simply an enthusiast of unconventional buildings, staying in this cabin in the middle of Romania is guaranteed to be a unique experience for you. Its shape resembles an acoustic guitar from the outside, with four large windows at the back. Inside the two-story apartment, you will find a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a bathroom, and a bedroom. There is an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy your morning coffee and views of the surrounding mountains.
3. 72 Hour Glass Cabin – Dalsland, Sweden
Living in today’s fast-paced and hectic world can be challenging and stressful for many people. There are several ways and methods to relieve stress and tension. In Sweden, they use local nature and the so-called 72-hour glass huts. In September 2017, a case study was conducted here to find out what effect the Swedes’ unique relationship with nature has. Five people with some of the most stressful jobs tried living in specially built glass huts under the watchful eye of scientists. After 72 hours, everyone’s blood pressure, stress levels and heart rate had dropped – and they’d become more creative, too.
So, if you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a glass hut in the beautiful Dalsland countryside could be just the place. The design is inspired by the tree houses the designers grew up in. After 72 hours here, your stress levels can be reduced by up to 70%.
2. UFO Experience – Redberth, UK
Are you a sci-fi fan? Then we have something for you. There’s a campsite in South Wales with a unique UFO-shaped cabin. It combines the iconic look of flying saucers with modern, imaginative facilities. Access is via a remote-controlled retractable staircase. The interior is a modern homage to interstellar travel, with impressive details such as a laser display of the night sky. It accommodates up to four people (or astronauts?) and, alongside the beds, there’s a dining table and a games console with retro games such as Space Invaders and Defender. The campsite has a fire pit, barbecue area and communal bathrooms.
1. Private Jet Villa Uluwatu – Bali, Indonesia
Finally, we had found a “cottage” that you would never have dreamed of. This accommodation is a converted Boeing 737. And what does it include? A heliport, a hot tub in every room, a terrace on the wing overlooking the sea, an infinity pool with an outdoor Jacuzzi, a fireplace, an unlimited bar and, last but not least, a private chef. It is also a 9-minute walk from Nyang Nyang Beach. No wonder it is a popular venue for weddings and engagements. This villa is a true symbol of luxury.
Bonus: Smurf Village in Jesenice u Rakovníka
Although we’ve shown you beautiful and unique accommodations around the world, you don’t have to travel far for a unique experience. The Jesenice Hotel Resort in Central Bohemia offers accommodation in 7 mushroom-shaped cottages from the popular fairy tale The Smurfs. Each cottage has its own bathroom and two bedrooms and can accommodate 4-5 people. There is also a children’s playground, restaurant and spa. This cute accommodation is sure to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
Did you like our selection? If you’ve come across a unique accommodation during your travels, feel free to share it with us on Facebook or Instagram! And if you are looking for a place where you can spend your holiday undisturbed in the heart of nature, come to us at Chalupa Daisy Posázaví. We look forward to seeing you!