As the holiday season jingles round again, why not shake things up this year with a little – or a lot – of extra sparkle? Booking.com shares its pick of the most exceptional accommodations around the world for those looking to take their festive break up a level and celebrate the holidays in a destination like no other.
Discover a fairy chimney getaway, gather your clan in a traditional igloo or hide yourself away in a wine cask. From ice-skating with family in sunny Dubai to trekking lava fields with friends in Iceland, these twelve extraordinary experiences are sure to bring a memorable glow to your year-end, and more than a little holiday-envy amongst those left at home!
Ice, Ice Baby
Hotel Kakslauttanen, Finland
Staying in igloo has to be the definition of pure wintery wonder. Experience the magical polar night surrounded by a snow dusted landscape in the middle of Lapland, cross the wilderness on a husky or reindeer safari and tuck into char-grilled fresh salmon under the starry sky. Don’t forget your snow boots!
It’s a fairy tale world
In the heart of Cappadocia, this Turkish treat is carved out of tufa rock cones making it a mystical place to discover. After exploring the unforgettable mountains and local lunar landscape, take some time to blow of steam in a traditional hamam before enjoying the local celebratory cuisine.
Ice-skating and sand angels
An unbeatable combination of heat and uber-cool. Skate the night away on the private ice rink at Hyatt Regency in Dubai, a five-minute walk from magical gold, spice and textile souks. Throw in a revolving restaurant, jaw-dropping views and a luxurious spa club for festive indulgence you’ll never forget.
Snow is falling and books are calling
After a year of hard graft it’s time to curl up in a comfy chair and discover another story. This beautiful, boutique hotel in fairytale New York offers a traditional American-themed library (plus tempting wine and cheese) while the rooftop bar and Poetry Garden provide literary inspired cocktails and stunning city views. And if that’s not enough, the New York Public Library itself is just two minutes’ walk away.
Welcome aboard the sleeper plane
Experience the high life for a night with this unique property set in a former Boeing 747 jumbo jet. Wake up aboard Jumbo Stay in the luxury suite in the converted cockpit, raise a toast on the balcony with panoramic runway views and plan where you might jet off to next. Ready for take-off!
Tucked between mountains and lava fields
A thrilling destination in the midst of majestic mountains and lava fields. Soak beneath the Northern Lights, trek a challenging glacier or catch a fly fish on one of the icy rivers. Ion Luxury Adventure hotel offers you the perfect environment to unwind while staying active this holiday season.
Young at heart
Revisit childhood memories of climbing trees with a visit to the Tree Hotel in Swedish Lapland. Explore this fairytale forest during the magnificent Fall or take the family on a beautiful sled ride through the glittering white landscape once Winter arrives. Add a visit to nearby reindeer pastures and enjoy a traditional Sami lunch for a festive experience without compare.
Frozen water land
Get ready for a cable car ride to this ice hotel, located 2000m above sea level. With rooms handcrafted by local craftsman from ice straight out of nearby Balea Lake, this place is cold yet heart-warming. Reindeer fur-blankets will keep you toasty warm while you take a well-deserved nap on your ice-bed after a day on the nearby ski slopes.
Wine wake-up
A good wine is one of the key ingredients for many a festive gathering. Ever woken up inside a 14.500 liter wine cask though?! It’s in this unique place in the North of the Netherlands where you can open your eyes each morning after nights of celebration. Cheers to a new year!
Incredible India
Take a deep breath and stretch. Yoga sessions in this majestic marble palace will help you fully relax over the holidays. Situated in the middle of Lake Pichola this one-of-a-kind destination even offers astrology sessions to maybe get a glimpse of the year ahead…
Joyful jungle days
For moments of reflection this tropical hideout is perfect to rest and relax, before enjoying Christmas Carols, Jazz piano and saxophone interludes in its excellent restaurant. Located in the ‘’Valley of Kings’’ representing Balinese royalty that lived here, you’ll feel like a king or queen yourself. Cool off in a stunning infinity pool and enjoy the uninterrupted jungle views on this exotic island.
Viva Mexico!
Pair festive times with elegance at this picturesque hotel built around a restored 19th century bullfighting ring. Right in the heart of the colonial city of Zacatecas, you can join in local celebrations as well as luxuriate in the warm and historic atmosphere of this exquisite and unusual hotel.