Religious and Pilgrimage Destinations
How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
Europe is unique in every way. So, it’s no coincidence that it offers some of the most unique lodging options in the world. Whether you’re backpacking through Spain or you’re a spending a month in Norway for school, you’re sure to find an unforgettable place to sleep at night. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the most unique places to stay in Europe.
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Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Get closer to the natural atmosphere of Scandinavia than ever before at Sweden’s ICEHOTEL. It’s the world’s largest hotel built entirely out of snow and ice. You can find these creative quarters in the small town of Jukkasjärvi.
© Oshokim
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Hotel Bellevue des Alpes, Switzerland
Resting at the foot of the great Eiger Mountain in Switzerland, The Hotel Bellevue des Alpes is the quintessential mountainside hotel. The hotel’s unique location and superb Swiss amenities make it an ideal place to stay for any ski enthusiast.
© Alma Mollemans
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Pestana Palace Hotel, Lisboa, Portugal
The Pestana Palace in Portugal is one of the finest hotels in all of Europe. Esteemed amenities, subtropical gardens and unparalleled luxury are all accounted for in this five-star hotel. If you’re looking for the most elegant lodging in Portugal, look no further.
© Visit Finland
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Castle Hotel of Imatra, Finland
Enjoy the comforts and grandeur of a refurbished castle at the Rantasipi Valtionhotelli in Finland. Once a popular destination for Russian nobility, the castle hotel has some of the most relaxing accommodations in the country. And it’s all accentuated by the soothing sounds of the nearby rapids of the Vuoksi River.
© Visit Europe
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Juvet Landscape Hotel, Norway
The idea behind The Juvet Landscape Hotel in Norway is to bring visitors as close to the area’s natural beauty as possible. With a modern and open design, staying at this hotel feels almost like camping in the Norwegian treetops.
© Monmar Comunicació
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Cabanes als arbres, Spain
Built high in the countryside of Northeastern Spain stands 10 hotels that are more like tree houses. In fact, the name Cabanes als arbres directly translates to “tree cabins.” Here, you’ll find some of Spain’s best views, quaint cabin amenities and a one-of-a-kind experience
© Detlef Schobert
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Treehotel in Harads, Sweden
Spain isn’t the only country with treetop hotels. Sweden is home to the iconic Treehotel found deep in the heart of the forest area of Harads. The mirror exterior makes it virtually invisible from the outside. But inside, it provides a cool and spacious sanctuary from the forest below.
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Hotel Ještěd, Czech Republic
Hotel Ještěd sits high atop Ještěd Mountain in the Czech Republic. Known for its iconic tower, Hotel Ještěd is an architectural wonder. Stay here for elegant amenities and the best views overlooking the region of Bohemia.
© Pedro Plassen Lopes
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Katikies Hotel, Santorini, Greece
Clean, modern and comfortable, Katikies Hotel in Santorini is one of Greece’s most elegant hotels. Complete with clear pools, breathtaking views and the best Greek hospitality around, you’re sure to have a memorable stay at this hotel.
© commercial use
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Hotel Marques de Riscal by architect Frank Gehry, Spain
Part artwork and part hotel, Hotel Marques de Riscal is one of Europe’s most creative lodging options. Renowned architect Frank Gehry designed the hotel’s imaginative appearance. Inside, the hotel is topped off with a modern but timeless style.
© Tommy Sollén
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STF Kolarbyn/Eco-lodge, Sweden
Let Sweden’s natural serenity shine through by staying right in the middle of it all. At STF Kolarbyn, it’s only natural that you’re without electricity and running water. Instead, you enjoy the great outdoors right at your doorstep. It’s not for everyone, but it is one of Europe’s most unique places to stay.
© Terje RakkeNordic Life - Visitnorway.com
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Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Alta, Norway
The Igloo Hotel located in Alta, Norway, is exactly what it sounds like. Crafted out of ice and snow, the hotel is a surprisingly cozy place to sleep for the night. And with tasty food and fun activities on site, it’s sure to be a memorable stay.
© Visit Europe
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Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand, Austria
Located on the shores of Lake Constance, Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand is one of Austria’s finest lodging establishments. From the unrivaled comforts of the hotel’s rooms to the breathtaking views of the pier bathhouse, relaxation is at every corner when you stay here.
Galleries
Discover the Thermal Heritage of Europe
The therapeutic use of hot springs has been present in Europe from ancient times to the present day, giving birth to a number of spa towns well-known for the beauty of their buildings, or long tradition of welcoming guests and the healing properties of its springs.
European Mountains: Going Up and Coming Down
The mountains in Europe are some of the tallest summits in the world. They’re also some of the most fun. From skiing in Switzerland to snowkiting in Norway, discover the best ways to play on Europe’s mountains with this gallery.
Sea Cruises in Europe
Set sail on Europe’s high seas with a cruise. Explore the water and coastal destinations of one of Europe’s many cruise options, from big luxury cruise lines to chartering a small fishing boat.
Featured Experiences
Potato Dumplings with Sheep Cheese
The most typical Slovak national food is Bryndzové Halušky with bacon. This is made from potato dough mixed with a special kind of sheep cheese – „bryndza“ that tastes best in the so called cottages of shepherds or mountain chalets. The dish is topped by fried bacon lardons and some of the fat. Bryndzové halušky is best eaten with buttermilk or acidified milk. Slovakia can boast a remarkable world curiosity. Every year, in the mountain village of Turecká at the foot of the Veľká Fatra mountains, lovers of bryndzové halušky meet at the European championship for cooking and consuming of this dish.
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