Tired of cookie-cutter hotel rooms? Check out our list of the top 10 extreme hotels in the world. Here you’ll find unique offerings across the globe, including a converted bullfighting ring in Mexico and an underwater hotel in the U.S.
1. Quinta Real Zacatecas
Quinta Real Zacatecas
Zacatecas, Mexico
From breweries to jails, we’ve seen our fair share of neglected properties repurposed into hotels. But?Quinta Real Zacatecas is among our favorites. Crafted from the grandstands of the restored nineteenth-century San Pedro bullfighting ring, which saw its last bullfight in 1975, this singular place welcomes guests with a glass of sparkling wine. Among the 49 colonial-style accommodations, many of which overlook a central patio, the most appealing are the high-end suites, featuring views of the cobblestone-paved bullring. The three-story house restaurant, La Plaza, resides in the sun stands, with views of the ring, aqueduct and Cathedral of Fatima. Also on-site is the brick-walled Botarel bar in the old bull pen, offering live music on weekends and wines from Mexico and around the world. Adding to the appeal of the experience is the surrounding town of Zacatecas. In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, guests can explore colonial-era architecture and take a cable car from a former mine to the top of Cerro de la Bufa. ?Ol?!
2. Attrap Reves Allauch
Attrap Reves Allauch
Allauch, France
Sure, not everyone dreams of starring in their own space odyssey, but for those who do,?this family-owned enterprise?provides an apt setting. Campy meets camping in six bubble accommodations with themes ranging from 1001 Nights to Zen. But these bubbles offer more than just a unique experience. Made from recycled materials, they are eco-friendly, and they are deflated at the end of the season, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding pine forest. Although the bubbles are sheer, privacy is ensured, from individual bathrooms to secluded locales within the property. Packages heighten the experience, with extras such as Champagne, gourmet dinner, massages and a telescope and star chart for the ultimate in bedtime star-gazing. Though this Proven?al property feels isolated, you can easily visit the pottery makers of Aubagne or nearby town of Allauch overlooking Marseilles. Better yet, if you enjoy this experience, you can check out Attrap’ R?ves’ other bubble destinations throughout France.
3. Taprobane Island
Taprobane Island
Weligama Bay, Sri Lanka
Built in the 1920s by a self-appointed count and later owned by the expatriate writer Paul Bowles (who penned Spider House here), this?two-and-a-half-acre private island boasts just one sumptuous, five-bedroom villa. Although guests can wade to their exclusive hideaway from the shores of Sri Lanka, it’s more fun to ride in on an elephant. The concept behind the villa’s design was to avoid closed spaces, which means that there are views of the sea from almost every point in the house, including the stunning infinity pool and the individual terraces attached to the four double bedrooms. Adding to the sense of luxury is the island’s attentive staff, which includes security guards and a dedicated chef whose many specialties include Sri Lankan curries.
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