Sleep somewhere a little different. These offbeat stays are unlike anything else out there.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period.
Now, discover 10 of the top winners in the Best of the Best Hotels category:
1. Taj Lake Palace, India
Taj Lake Palace floats like a dream on Lake Pichola, offering panoramic views and Mughal-inspired opulence. Each restored room feels like a step into royal history. Guests can take private boat rides, enjoy personalised service, and dine at a range of standout restaurants. The tranquil setting and storied charm make this one of India’s most iconic stays.
2. Ashford Castle, Ireland
When you think “castle hotel,” you’re probably picturing Ashford, with its stately canopy beds, manicured grounds, and slew of regal activities (think: falconry, archery). Bonus: It’s also kid-friendly.
3. Bambu Indah Resort, Indonesia
The suites at this eco-friendly sanctuary look like intricately woven baskets (the Copper House is particularly breathtaking). There’s also a spectacular cliff-top bar—a worthy reason to leave your room.
4. Fingal Hotel, United Kingdom
This ship may be permanently docked in Edinburgh’s buzzy Leith neighbourhood, but the elegant rooms here feel like a getaway all their own. Even if you’re not a guest, the afternoon tea is a can’t-miss.
5. Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Grab breakfast with some new giraffe pals at this hunting lodge-turned-sanctuary, where the gentle giants are known to peek their heads into the second-floor rooms.
6. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand
From your vantage point in the hotel’s luxe transparent bubble rooms, there’s no forgetting you’re in the middle of a bamboo forest: You’re bound to see families of elephants strolling by.
7. Nayara Bocas Del Toro – All Inclusive, Panama
Overwater bungalows may be par for the course in the Maldives, but they’re a rare treat in South America. Here, you’re never far from a swim, and the spa delivers full-body relaxation.
8. Valley Views Glamping, New Zealand
There’s no denying New Zealand’s landscape is breathtaking. The best ways to take it all in? An off-grid, geodesic dome with uninterrupted views from your bed. Or, say, an outdoor heated bathtub in the forest.
9. Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, Italy
Nourish your inner romantic in this hotel’s candlelit cave bedrooms, which are carved right into the hillside. The views of the Italian countryside at breakfast are unforgettable, too.
10. Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, South Africa
The rooms here are built into caves, which all but blend into the stunning surroundings. If you really want to be awed by nature, spend a night in an open-air suite—stargazing at its best.
Taken from: Tripadvisor