The Coolest Underground Hotels Around the World: Unusual Holiday Destinations You’ll Love

In the search for unusual holiday destinations, some travellers are looking for experiences that break the norm. If you’re someone who enjoys stepping off the beaten path, underground hotels might just be the adventure you need. Offering an experience like no other, these hotels combine history, creativity, and an undeniable cool factor. Whether you’re sleeping beneath a mountain or tucked away in a subterranean city, underground hotels around the world provide a truly unique way to experience your next getaway.

1. The Cave Hotel: A Stay Amongst the Rocks

Cave hotels offer an unforgettable combination of luxury and nature. The most famous example can be found in the heart of Cappadocia, Turkey . This region is known for its fairy chimneys, and the cave hotels are carved right into the soft volcanic rock formations. At the Argos in Cappadocia , guests sleep in rooms that were once ancient caves, some with original frescoes on the walls. The mix of history and modern comfort in these underground retreats makes for a perfect getaway for those seeking unusual holiday destinations.

These cave hotels also serve as a great way to learn about the local culture. The ancient rock dwellings in Cappadocia date back thousands of years, and staying in one gives you a tangible connection to the region’s rich past.

2. The Icehotel in Sweden: A Frozen Subterranean Escape

Though not strictly underground, Sweden’s Icehotel is carved into the frozen landscape, offering a cold but beautiful experience. Located in Jukkasjärvi , it’s constructed anew each winter using ice from the nearby Torne River . Guests sleep in beautifully sculpted ice rooms and have the chance to experience art made entirely from snow and ice. The hotel is part of the world’s unique underground and ice-based accommodations that redefine the idea of a winter holiday.

The hotel’s ice art gallery is constantly changing, making every stay a new adventure for those interested in the surreal and unusual.

3. The Cave Hotel in Italy: A Luxurious Time Capsule

Located in Matera, Italy , the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is set within the ancient Sassi cave dwellings. The hotel merges rustic charm with modern luxury in one of Italy’s most famous UNESCO-listed towns. The history of Matera goes back over 9,000 years, and staying in one of the restored cave rooms is a way to sleep in history while enjoying modern-day comforts.

This extraordinary underground hotel not only offers a place to sleep but allows guests to connect with the past, providing a perfect balance of culture and luxury. Matera’s architecture is truly unique, with its intricate labyrinth of stone caves and stone-carved homes that have been transformed into boutique accommodations.

4. The Underground Hotel in Australia: A Red Centre Stay

For a true desert escape, head to Australia’s Coober Pedy , where The Desert Cave Hotel offers rooms carved directly into the opal-rich earth. Located in the heart of the outback, this underground hotel is a cool escape from the scorching Australian heat. Coober Pedy is known for its opal mines, and many residents live in homes built into the earth to avoid the extreme temperatures.

The Desert Cave offers a unique way to experience Australia’s outback while staying cool and comfortable. The hotel features opal displays and mine tours, making it one of the most unusual holiday destinations for those intrigued by mining history.

5. The Green House in New Zealand: Eco-Friendly and Underground

New Zealand’s EarthHouse is an eco-friendly underground hotel that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Located in the Wairarapa Valley , the hotel is built into the earth, designed to minimise its environmental impact while offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. The structure is made with sustainable materials, and the energy-efficient design makes it a perfect choice for eco-conscious travellers.

What makes EarthHouse stand out is its use of the natural landscape. The rooms are carved into the hillside, and guests can enjoy a peaceful and secluded stay while being close to nature. This hidden gem is the ideal place for a sustainable getaway in an unusual holiday destination.

6. The Faralda Crane Hotel: Sleeping in a Historic Crane

For something truly different, the Faralda Crane Hotel in Amsterdam , Netherlands, provides a striking contrast to the typical underground hotel. Located in an old industrial crane on the waterfront, this quirky hotel offers luxurious rooms and panoramic views of the city. The rooms, while not underground, are perched high up, giving guests an elevated experience in a former shipping port.

This unusual holiday destination provides a sense of history and creativity, with a mix of industrial charm and modern luxury. Faralda Crane Hotel also offers a spa, pool, and other amenities that make this a truly memorable stay.

Why Choose an Underground Hotel for one of Your Next Unusual Holiday Destinations?

Underground hotels bring an exciting layer to your travels, providing not only a place to sleep but a unique experience that enhances your adventure. Whether you’re exploring the ancient caves of Turkey or staying cool in Australia’s desert, each of these destinations offers a memorable escape. Choosing an underground hotel allows you to connect with nature, history, and culture in ways that traditional hotels cannot offer.

For those seeking unusual holiday destinations , underground hotels give an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to any trip. Plus, staying in a place that’s literally out of the ordinary will make your holiday unforgettable.

Ready to Book one of our Unusual Holiday Destinations?

If you’re excited to experience one of these incredible underground hotels, let Jamie Wake Travel make your dream trip a reality. As an independent travel agency, we provide bespoke travel planning, tailoring holidays to suit your personal needs. Whether you’re drawn to the unique charm of Cappadocia’s cave hotels or the ice-cold allure of Sweden’s Icehotel, we’ve got you covered.

Why settle for the ordinary when you can book a trip to one of the world’s most unusual holiday destinations ? Get in touch with us today at 01495 400005 or fill out our holiday enquiry form to start planning your next adventure. Let’s make your next getaway as unique as you are!