MT Sobek Staff Picks: Best Unique Accommodations for 2027
MT Sobek Experts Share Their Favorite Places to Stay!
Calling all adventurers! We’re thrilled to unveil our favorite adventure stays for 2027! From remote Patagonian estancias and medieval European castles to island hot springs, eco-camps, and mountain lodges along the route to Machu Picchu, these extraordinary accommodations elevate the journey long after the day’s active adventure ends.
Picture soaking in a seaside onsen in Japan, gazing across a dramatic Spanish gorge, wandering Morocco’s ancient medina, or relaxing amid Sri Lanka’s lush tropical landscape. Hand-picked by MT Sobek experts, these unique stays are more than just places to spend the night. They’re an integral part of the MT Sobek experience, bringing you closer to the landscapes, cultures, and stories that define each of the bucket-list destinations we go to.
Keep reading for our favorite unique accommodations!
Heritance Kandalama, Sri Lanka:
Discover a hotel lost to the jungle!
Why We Love This: “Designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, Heritance Kandalama is one of Asia’s most celebrated eco-hotels! Built directly into a rock face and draped by vines and creepers, it blends into the cliff itself and the surrounding 211 acres of protected forest overlooking Kandalama Lake. Guests can spot wildlife from private balconies, take in sweeping lake views, enjoy exceptional Sri Lankan cuisine, and immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty during their stay here.” — Leah R. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & Africa
Preview the adventure here.
Mountain Lodges of the Salkantay Trek
Hike door-to-door between premier small lodges!
Why We Love This: “These four remote mountain lodges (including Salkantay Lodge, pictured above) connect ancient Inca routes to Machu Picchu without sacrificing comfort. Inspired by Inca building techniques, the stone, adobe, and straw lodges offer down bedding, hot showers, and hot tubs at 7,000 to 12,000 feet. Along the journey to Machu Picchu, enjoy moonlit mountain views, candlelit dinners, and a traditional Pachamanca feast—all before a final trek that affords a rare view of Machu Picchu rising from the jungle!” — Sharman F. MT Sobek Program Director for Latin America
Preview the adventure here.
Estancia Cerro Guido, Chile
Experience Patagonia’s guacho heritage!
Why We Love This: “Set within Torres del Paine’s oldest and largest working ranch, Estancia Cerro Guido offers an authentic glimpse into Patagonia’s gaucho culture. With just 21 rooms, this historic estancia is one of the region’s most sought-after stays. Guests can connect with a living ranching tradition while learning about one of Patagonia’s leading puma conservation projects, where tracking skills once used for hunting now help protect wildlife.” — Sharman F. Program Director for Latin America
Preview the adventure here.
Al Moudira, Egypt
Explore the Valley of the Kings from a Nile oasis!
Why We Love This: With ochre domes, ornate patios, and gorgeous gardens, Al Moudira is an elegant property on Luxor’s West Bank near the Valley of the Kings. High-ceilinged rooms feature hand-painted murals and intricate engravings, while ten courtyards, palm groves, and exotic gardens create a tranquil atmosphere. After a day exploring Luxor, guests can return to relax by the pool, unwind in the Turkish bath, and enjoy fusion cuisine at the Pavilion restaurant. — Leah R. Program Director for Europe & Africa
Preview this adventure here.
Riad Fes, Morocco
Lose yourself in Morocco’s most iconic medina!
Why We Love This: Tucked within the UNESCO-listed medina of Fes, Riad Fes blends traditional Moroccan architecture with modern comfort. Centered around a classic open-air courtyard, the beautifully restored riad offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets outside. Guests can relax on the panoramic rooftop terrace, taking in sweeping views of the ancient medina and surrounding mountains from one of Morocco’s most atmospheric settings. — Leah R. Program Director for Europe & Africa
Preview the adventure here.
Parador de Ronda, Spain
Gaze across Andalusia’s great gorge!
Why We Love This: “Perched beside the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, Parador de Ronda commands spectacular views over the 395-foot-deep El Tajo Gorge and the surrounding Andalusian mountains. Housed within Ronda’s historic 18th-century town hall, the property places you steps from the town’s cultural landmarks, restaurants, and centuries of history while offering one of Spain’s most remarkable settings.” — Leah R. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & Asia
Preview the adventure here.
Château Hrubá Skála, Czech Republic
Wake within a medieval cliffside castle!
Why We Love This: “Founded in 1353, this hotel that was once a genuine castle sits atop a cliff in the UNESCO geopark of Bohemian Paradise. Enjoy views of the old castle ramparts and striking rock formations, with trails that meander into fairy-tale-like landscapes. Spacious accommodations and a relaxing spa massage provide the perfect retreat after a day spent exploring one of Czech Republic’s most captivating destinations.” — Travis W. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & the Pacific
Preview the adventure here.
Onyado Shikishimakan, Japan
Soak in cypress baths in the heart of historic Kotohira!
Why We Love This: “We love this beautifully restored Meiji-era ryokan for its mix of history, comfort, and location. Set on Kotohira’s historic main street, just below the steps to Kotohira-gu Shrine, it features elegant Japanese interiors, lovely rooms, soothing public baths, and delicious meals. Guests can soak in cypress baths, slip into a yukata, and enjoy a stay that feels distinctly Japanese from start to finish.” — Amy H. Program Director for Asia
Preview the adventure here.
Flinders Island Eco Camp, Australia
Stargaze from a remote island sanctuary!
Why We Love This: “Reserved exclusively for MT Sobek groups, the Flinders Island Eco Camp offers a private wilderness glamping experience. Safari-style tents feature open ceilings for stargazing and panoramic views of the wild landscape around you. Guests who stay at the eco-lodge have private access to a beautiful beach about a 50 meter walk away. Enjoy thoughtful amenities, ample room, and thick sleeping pads!” — Travis W. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & the Pacific
Preview the adventure here.
Many Glacier Hotel, USA
Wake beneath Glacier’s towering peaks!
Why We Love This: “Set on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake inside Glacier National Park, Many Glacier Hotel has welcomed guests since 1915. Built by the Great Northern Railway, its spectacular lakeside setting is framed by rugged mountain scenery. Historic charm, old-world accommodations, and inviting dining options create a timeless national park experience, offering a comfortable retreat after days spent exploring Glacier’s legendary landscapes. This is the largest and grandest hotel in Glacier National Park!” — Christy H. MT Sobek Director of Vertical Operations
Preview the adventure here.
Casa cu Cerbi Guesthouse in Sucevita, Romania
Explore Bucovina from a heritage farmhouse!
Why We Love This: “Set in the Carpathian foothills of northeastern Romania, Casa cu Cerbi Guesthouse offers an authentic glimpse into traditional village life. This carefully restored heritage farmhouse is filled with antique furniture, family rugs, and historic local décor. Guests gather around homemade, family-style meals prepared with ingredients from the owners’ garden and orchard, all just a short distance from Bucovina’s famed painted monasteries.” — Leah R. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & Africa
Preview the adventure here.
Rios Lodge, Costa Rica
Paddle deep into rainforest wilderness!
Why We Love This: “Stay where Costa Rica’s ecotourism movement effectively began! Rios Lodge is Costa Rica’s original ecolodge, built on the banks of the Pacuare River by conservation pioneer Rafael Gallo — the same river he fought to keep flowing free of dams that would have destroyed it. There’s no road to Rios Lodge — the only way in is by raft or on foot. Fully off-grid and powered by its own hydroelectric and solar systems, it’s less a hotel than an outpost: remote, self-sufficient, and reachable only by earning the journey. Guests consistently rave about the food and service, and each traveler chooses their own courses from a genuinely excellent menu — a level of hospitality most wouldn’t expect this deep in the rainforest!” — Sharman F. MT Sobek Program Director for Latin America
Preview the adventure here.
Snowland Highest Inn, Everest
Reach one of Everest’s highest lodges!
Why We Love This: “At 17,000 feet, Snowland Highest Inn is one of the highest lodges featured on any MT Sobek Everest adventure and the final lodge before reaching Everest Base Camp. Set beneath the snow-covered summit of Pumori and the towering west face of Nuptse, it offers a remarkable high-altitude experience. Guests enjoy breakfast and dinner surrounded by sweeping views of the Himalaya, making every meal as memorable as the trek itself.” — Amy H. MT Sobek Program Director for Asia
Preview the adventure here.
Auberge de la Maison
Relax beneath Mont Blanc’s towering peaks!
Why We Love This: “Set in Italy’s Aosta Valley, Auberge de la Maison pairs alpine charm with sweeping views of Mont Blanc. This family-run, multi-generational retreat combines warm hospitality with luxurious comforts, including a renowned spa, outdoor pool, and mountain-view wellness facilities. After a day of hiking, guests can unwind with locally inspired cuisine and soak in one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain settings.” — Travis W. MT Sobek Program Director for Europe & the Pacific
Preview the adventure here.
Alyeska Resort
Soak in Alaska’s Nordic wilderness!
Why We Love This: “Set on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake inside Glacier National Park, Many Glacier Hotel has welcomed guests since 1915. Built by the Great Northern Railway, its spectacular lakeside setting is framed by rugged mountain scenery. Historic charm, old-world accommodations, and inviting dining options create a timeless national park experience, offering a comfortable retreat after days spent exploring Glacier’s legendary landscapes. This is the largest and grandest hotel in Glacier National Park!” — Christy H. MT Sobek Director of Vertical Operations
Preview the adventure here.
Boulder Mountain Lodge
Recharge in Utah’s red rock oasis!
Why We Love This: “Surrounded by cottonwoods in the tiny town of Boulder, Boulder Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Utah’s red rock canyon country. Home to the nationally acclaimed Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm, guests enjoy farm-to-table dining sourced from the property’s own fields. Spacious rooms, a private 10-acre bird sanctuary, and easy access to southern Utah’s remote hiking trails create a stay that feels both restorative and deeply connected to the landscape.” — Josh K. MT Sobek Program Director for North America
Preview the adventure here.
Shojoshin-in Shukubo, Japan
Immerse in centuries of Buddhist tradition!
Why We Love This: “Attached to one of Mount Koya’s oldest Buddhist temples, this shukubo has a long and fascinating history and retains traditional architectural features said to have influenced the design of the Kongōbuji-ji Temple! Originally built as a thatched hut more than 1,150 years ago, the property now features beautiful 150-year-old buildings, traditional guest rooms, and communal bathing areas within Hinoki cypress wood tubs. Lodging is run by the monk and guests dine on shojin-ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.” — Amy H. MT Sobek Program Director for Asia
Preview the adventure here.
Why Explore the World with MT Sobek
MT Sobek began operating adventure trips since 1969. True to our roots, we offer a range of immersive hiking and cultural experiences led by seasoned local guides, the best adventure travel experiences to take you all around the world. An adventure awaits everyone, from trekking to the highest summits to discovering stunning coastal towns, immersing in culture, or encountering wildlife.
So what does this rich history provide for MT Sobek guests?
- Carefully designed itineraries: A balance of iconic trails and hidden gems for a deeper experience of each unique destination. MT Sobek’s hiking adventures immerse guests in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Italy, Patagonia, France, Japan and more.
- Small group adventures: All MT Sobek trips are limited to no more than 16 guests, while some are capped at 12. Small group sizes create a more personalized and immersive experience.
- Seamless travel logistics: Permits, transportation, meals, activities and accommodations are expertly arranged so you can focus on the joy of adventure and cultural discovery.
- Comfort and immersion: Rewarding hikes paired with premier lodging and memorable meals create an enriching and relaxing experience.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable leaders share insights into local ecology, geology, wildlife, and cultural history, and ensure a commitment to safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Check out details for your favorite adventure and see how MT Sobek will help turn your adventure fantasies into reality.
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FAQs
Join us on the trail! Some of the world’s most distinctive stays at MT Sobek include Buddhist temple lodgings in Japan, eco-camps on remote islands, medieval castles in Europe, Patagonian estancias, lodges along trekking routes to Machu Picchu, and wilderness camps accessible only on foot or by raft.
Eco-lodges are typically designed to minimize environmental impact while creating meaningful connections with local nature and culture. Many feature sustainable operations, smaller guest capacities, conservation initiatives, and immersive outdoor experiences.
Some guest favorites include the mountain lodges along Peru’s Salkantay Trek, Patagonia’s Estancia Cerro Guido, Japan’s traditional ryokans and temple lodgings, remote eco-camps in Australia, and boutique wilderness lodges throughout Alaska, Utah, and Costa Rica.
MT Sobek carefully selects accommodations that reflect the character of each destination. Whether it’s a heritage farmhouse, mountain lodge, ecolodge, safari camp, or historic inn, these properties help create more immersive and meaningful travel experiences.
Some of the world’s most celebrated hiking destinations include Patagonia, the Alps, Nepal’s Himalayas, Kilimanjaro, Bhutan, Peru, New Zealand, and Utah’s canyon country. Each offers distinct landscapes, cultures, and levels of challenge.
Guided adventures like MT Sobek provide logistical support, expert local knowledge, route planning, safety oversight, and deeper cultural connections. Many travelers find they can experience more and worry less when traveling with experienced guides.
Since 1969, MT Sobek has been designing active adventures led by expert guides in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations! Small-group travel, thoughtful itineraries, seamless logistics, and immersive experiences allow guests to focus on discovery rather than planning.
Yes. Many solo travelers join guided hiking trips with MT Sobek because they offer a safe, social, and convenient way to explore iconic trails while meeting like-minded adventurers from around the world.
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