– Book with Adventures by Sky to unlock exclusive perks –
Are you tired of the same old hotel rooms and resorts? If so, this list of Bucket List Hotel Stays (+ links to book) is for you! These are the most extraordinary, jaw-dropping, and downright unique places to sleep (or stay) in the world.
As a seasoned travel agent who specializes in curating unforgettable experiences, I’ve handpicked these hidden gems just for you. But that’s not all! When you book with Adventures by Sky, you’ll unlock exclusive perks that take your stay to the next level. Think VIP access, room upgrades, spa treatments, and insider experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re looking for a bucket list hotel that’s truly unique, I have just the place for you. Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai is a hidden gem nestled right in the heart of the desert. It’s like stepping into another world—a tranquil oasis surrounded by rolling sand dunes and stunning views of the Hajar Mountains.
Imagine waking up in your own private suite, complete with a pool and views that seem to stretch on forever. But Al Maha offers more than just luxurious accommodations. Here, you can experience the magic of the desert firsthand. Think of exhilarating 4×4 adventures, camel treks, and even the chance to try your hand at archery or falconry. And with only 42 suites, each adorned with authentic Arabian antiques, it’s the perfect escape for those seeking something truly special.
Speaking of unique places to sleep, if you’re chasing the Northern Lights, look no further than the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finland. It’s a family-run spot, tucked away in Lapland, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But don’t worry about getting there—it’s surprisingly easy, just a short hop from the Ivalo airport.
The real draw here is the chance to sleep under the dancing aurora borealis in a glass igloo. Talk about a bucket list experience! The season for viewing the Northern Lights is long here, from late August to late April, and the clear skies offer unobstructed views of the celestial show. Imagine snuggling up with someone special or gathering with friends in your very own cozy igloo, watching the sky come alive with color. It’s truly magical. And with options for both couples and groups, everyone can experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Staying on a private floating island on Lake Titicaca at Titicaca Flamenco Lodge offers an unforgettable highlight on any bucket list. This unique homestay experience immerses visitors in the local culture, with a welcoming family providing both a cozy and comfortable stay. If you’re searching Lake Titicaca hotels, this unique homestay experience immerses visitors in the local culture, with a welcoming family providing both a cozy and comfortable stay. The lodge offers excursions to neighboring islands that are man-made, crafted entirely from Totora reeds. The local family who runs the lodge teaches you about their traditions, takes you on a ride on one of their iconic reed boats, and the authentic touch extends to the meals, as the family prepares traditional dishes for you. This special and intimate experience offers a genuine glimpse into the lives of the local communities, making it a truly memorable adventure.
The Wadi Rum bubble hotel is a dream come true for those who want to sleep under the stars, but with a touch of luxury, I’ve got a place that’s out of this world—literally! Memories Aicha Luxury Camp in Wadi Rum, Jordan, is so unique it feels like you’ve stepped onto Mars. Nestled in a red valley surrounded by rugged mountains, this isn’t your average glamping experience.
Each of the 55 tents is like a futuristic bubble of comfort in the heart of the desert. Think plush furnishings, warm colors inspired by the surrounding landscape, and all the amenities you’d expect from a top-notch hotel—air conditioning, private showers, you name it. Some tents even have extra space for dining and lounging, making them ideal for families or groups who want to spread out.
Alright, wine lovers, this one’s for you! Have you ever dreamed of spending the night in a giant wine barrel? Well, at Quinta da Pacheca in Portugal, that dream becomes a reality. This bucket list hotel takes unique places to sleep to a whole new level, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley wine region.
Each “Wine Barrel” is a stylishly designed suite shaped like, you guessed it, a wine barrel! Imagine waking up surrounded by a peaceful vineyard with the scent of grapes in the air. It’s a truly immersive experience for any wine enthusiast. But it’s not just about the quirky accommodations; Quinta da Pacheca offers all the modern comforts you’d expect from a top-notch hotel. So, whether you’re sipping local wines on your private terrace or exploring the surrounding countryside, you’re in for a truly unforgettable stay.
Alright, let’s trade wine barrels for Tipis and head to Montana! If you’re planning a Yellowstone adventure and want a unique place to stay, the Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel might just be your perfect base camp. This isn’t your average camping experience—it’s glamping at its finest.
Picture yourself nestled in a spacious, well-furnished tipi, complete with cozy touches and stylish decor. As you gaze up at the night sky, you’ll be treated to some of the most incredible stargazing in Big Sky Country. And the fun doesn’t stop there. Gather around the nightly campfire with fellow travelers and furry friends (yes, they’re pet-friendly!), sip complimentary drinks, and share stories of your adventures. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day exploring Yellowstone’s wonders.
This next bucket list hotel wins the prize of having the longest name in this guide – the Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita in Matera lets you sleep in a cave! No, not a damp, dark cavern, but a beautifully restored and luxuriously appointed cave dwelling i. Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita is a bucket list hotel for anyone looking to experience history and comfort in a truly unique way.
Nestled in the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unique accommodation offers you the chance to sleep in authentic cave dwellings that have been lovingly restored. The rough-hewn walls, exposed stonework, and minimalist furnishings create an atmosphere that’s both rustic and luxurious.
The 5 Million Star Hotel in Iceland lets guests sleep under the stars while enjoying all the modern comforts. This bucket list hotel takes glamping to a whole new level, with transparent bubbles that let you soak in the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. Can you imagine anything more magical than drifting off to sleep under the Northern Lights, without even leaving your bed?
The 5 Million Star Hotel offers more than just a unique place to sleep—it’s about connecting with nature in a truly extraordinary way. With locations on both the Golden Circle and the South Coast, you can choose the setting that most speaks to you. Whether you’re surrounded by rolling hills or dramatic coastlines, you’ll feel like you’re floating in a world of your own.
How about spending a night in a hotel made entirely of ice? ICEHOTEL Sweden is perhaps one of the most unique bucket list hotels. It literally melts away each spring, only to be reborn in a new, stunning form every winter. It’s a testament to human creativity and the beauty of impermanence.
And guess what? You don’t have to wait for winter to experience the chill. The ICEHOTEL 365, a permanent addition to the property, offers a year-round taste of this Arctic adventure. That’s right, you can sleep in a room sculpted from ice even in the middle of summer! The massive ice hall is a sight to behold, with intricate ice sculptures, a five-course dinner featuring local delicacies, and even a bar where you can sip cocktails from glasses made of ice. It’s a truly unique way to embrace the cold and create memories that will last long after the ice melts away.
Let’s head back to Finland, where the Aurora Village in Ivalo is waiting to wow you. This family-run gem is all about embracing the great outdoors, no matter the season. And their glass-roof Aurora Cabins? They’re the ultimate bucket list hotel rooms for nature lovers.
Imagine lying in bed, gazing up at the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. Or, in the summer, basking in the glow of the midnight sun. It’s a truly immersive experience that connects you with the Arctic wilderness like never before. And if you’re feeling adventurous, step outside your cabin and explore the network of trekking paths right on your doorstep. Whether you’re chasing the aurora or simply want to soak in the serene surroundings, the Aurora Village is a unique place to sleep that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
Hotel Bambu Indah in Bali is a boutique tropical escape that maintains the essence of old-school Bali: peaceful, laid-back, and in perfect harmony with nature.
Each treehouse at Hotel Bambu is a handcrafted masterpiece woven from bamboo, perched high above natural spring-fed pools and the Ayung River. Here, you’ll fall asleep to the gentle sway of the trees and the soothing sounds of the water below.
If you book through Adventures by Sky, we can even snag you some exclusive perks to make your stay even more magical.
Ready for a dose of adrenaline? Hold on tight, because Skylodge Adventure Suites in Peru’s Sacred Valley will have you dangling off a cliffside! The adventure starts before you even reach your sky-high suite, you’ll need to channel your inner mountaineer and climb Via Ferrata, including crossing a hanging suspension bridge. Once inside your capsule, you’ll be surrounded by jaw-dropping vistas and unparalleled tranquility. The experience also includes a gourmet dinner and breakfast overlooking the Sacred Valley. To check out, you’ll take 6 exhilarating ziplines!
The Manta Resort in Tanzania takes the concept of a bucket list hotel to a whole new depth—literally! This underwater hotel is like something out of a sci-fi movie. Imagine drifting off to sleep surrounded by the vibrant underwater world of the Indian Ocean. The Manta Island Resort’ floating underwater room offers three levels of wonder. Above the water, there is a cozy lounge and bathroom. Below the surface, you’ll find your sleeping quarters, a glass-walled oasis where you can watch schools of fish glide past as you drift off to dreamland.
The Taj Nadesar Palace Hotel in Varanasi, India, allows you to live like the king/queen you are! Taj Nadesar Palace Hotel is a time capsule to an era of opulence and grandeur.
Nestled within a fragrant mango orchard and blooming jasmine fields, this 18th-century palace is a haven of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Varanasi. You’ll sleep in stately quarters adorned with the Maharaja’s own You’ll awake to the sound of peacocks roaming the grounds and enjoy strolls through rose-lined gardens.
The Ashford Castle Hotel in County Mayo, Ireland, is another hotel that offers guests the royal treatment. This bucket list hotel has stood for over 800 years and was once home to the Guinness family. Now a multi-generational resort that’s earned a Forbes Five-Star rating. Ashford Castle Hotel sits on the shores of Lough Corrib, surrounded by lush green landscapes that feel straight out of a storybook. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to see knights and dragons roaming the grounds.
If you’ve been dreaming of a tropical paradise, Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives is the perfect place to get away. This luxurious resort is tucked away on a remote atoll, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. It’s the kind of place where you can truly escape from it all and reconnect with nature.
The real showstoppers are the overwater bungalows that allow you to wake up to the gentle lapping of waves beneath your feet, stepping out onto your private deck for a morning swim, or simply lounging by your own plunge pool while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Plus, there’s direct access to the lagoon, you can snorkel or swim right from your doorstep.
The Clare Island Lighthouse in County Mayo, Ireland, lets you cross “sleep in a lighthouse” off your list of bucket list hotels! You’ll climb a winding staircase to your bedroom in the original light tower, surrounded by views of the sea that stretch for miles.
The Tower House suite is the crown jewel of this historic property. It offers a cozy sitting room and bathroom on the ground level and a circular bedroom nestled in the original light tower. The interior is thoughtfully designed with bespoke furniture and modern comforts. You’ll be telling stories about this stay for years to come.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, then Singita Ebony Lodge in South Africa is about to become your new bucket list hotel. This hotel recently got a stunning makeover, blending classic safari vibes with a modern, airy feel that’ll make you want to stay forever. The main lodge has been transformed into an open, inviting space where you can soak in the views of the Sand River and the surrounding wilderness.
And the rooms? Think plush furnishings, warm earth tones, and cozy fireplaces—the perfect blend of luxury and rustic charm. But what truly sets the Singita Ebony Lodge apart is the way it seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings, creating a sense of harmony between man and nature.
The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an underwater hotel that is redefining luxury. Their suites are two levels of luxury, with the master bedroom submerged more than 16 feet below sea level with panoramic views of marine life swimming by your bedroom. And when you’re ready to come up for air, head upstairs to the above-water living and dining areas, where you’ll be treated to the kind of indulgence only the Maldives can offer.
The final stop on our bucket list hotel guide is a real showstopper. The Sun Cruise Resort & Yacht in South Korea offers the unique opportunity to experience a full-fledged cruise ship experience without the sea sickness, because it’s on land!
The Sun Cruise resort offers luxurious amenities, delicious cuisine, and the nearby lull of waves crashing. Not to mention the most incredible sunrise you’ve ever seen. Located on the stunning coast of Jeongdongjin, this bucket list hotel boasts views that’ll leave you speechless.
There you have it—20 bucket list hotel stays that prove the world is your oyster (or, in some cases, your igloo, your treehouse, or even your underwater bungalow!).
Feeling inspired? Let me plan your next luxurious vacation! Reach out to me at Adventures by Sky, and I’ll help you navigate the booking process, secure those coveted reservations, and sprinkle in some exclusive perks that’ll make your trip truly unforgettable.
Follow My Adventures on Social Media Where the Inspiration Never Ends