For avid hikers, few things top trekking across the world’s most bucket list-worthy destinations. From the tallest mountain peaks on the planet to tiny villages accessible only on foot and exotic, highly protected wildlife reserves, experiencing these places firsthand is a dream.
There is one thing that can make the journey even better, however: staying in memorable, one-of-a-kind accommodations in these magical locations. Just imagine slipping under the covers in an ancient medieval fortress, watching Bengal tigers from a private viewing platform, or cozying up in front of a fireplace in the Alps after an adventure-packed day!
These experiences are just some of the highlights on MT Sobek trips. Keep reading for over 25 of our favorite unique hotels, with options perfectly suited to every type of traveler.
Spain
1. Parador de Cardona – Catalonia
Comfortable
Live a real-life fairytale at this castle, loaded with medieval splendor and enchanting history.
- Hilltop location overlooks the Pyrenees and Catalonia
- Restaurant, sauna, and gym onsite
A 9th century fortress perched on a hill, Parador de Cardona offers awe-inspiring views over the valley. This regal retreat combines luxurious accommodations, rich history, and modern comforts, inviting guests to step back in history. Near trails and attractions like The Salt Mills, it’s also a fantastic launch point for the 9-day Spain & France Across the Pyrenees Hiking Tour.
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2. Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro – León
Comfortable
History and elegance intertwine at this hotel in the heart of León.
- Walkable location in the city center
- Authentic Roman architecture
Discover the Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro, an architectural gem showcasing Leon’s rich heritage. The hotel lets you embrace the past and savor contemporary indulgences with its Romanesque grandeur. On the Spain El Camino de Santiago Hiking Tour, guests will unwind in the luxurious accommodations after exploring nearby historic sites and sampling local cuisine.
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3. Hotel Alhambra Palace – Granada
Comfortable
A stylish, Moroccan-inspired hotel within walking distance of Alhambra Palace.
- Terrace with panoramic views of Granada
- Renowned service with top-tier amenities
Experience the epitome of Moorish luxury at the Hotel Alhambra Palace, where no detail is overlooked. At the top of a hill overlooking the iconic palace, the hotel transports you to a world of opulence. With impeccable service and a highly-rated restaurant, this promises to be an unforgettable stay to kick off the 8-day Spain Best of Andalucia Hiking Tour.
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Italy & Croatia
4. Hotel La Grisa – Bale, Croatia
Comfortable
Unwind at this tranquil hotel in the heart of the village.
- Rooms include air conditioning and free beach towels and wellness kits
- Popular restaurant with an extensive wine list
Set in old town Bale, the family-run boutique Hotel La Grisa is an urban oasis. It captivates with its fusion of modern design and rustic charm, and sits on the Istrian Peninsula, near several beaches. A favorite stop on the Croatia, Slovenia & Italy Village to Village Walking Tour, the hotel offers guests a gym, spa with indoor pool and hammam, and complimentary breakfast.
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5. Hostellerie du Paradis – Valsavarenche, Italy
Comfortable
A family-run alpine paradise with cozy rooms where guests feel like old friends.
- Indoor pool
- Endless walks nearby
Hostellerie du Paradis is set in the stunning Valsavarenche Valley, surrounded by majestic mountains. Genuine Italian hospitality combined with pristine wilderness makes it the perfect stopover for nature lovers on the Italy & Switzerland Heart of Gran Paradiso Hiking Tour. It’s also just 10 minutes from Gran Paradiso National Park and within walking distance of the village center.
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England & Scotland
6. The Broadway – Cotswolds, United Kingdom
Comfortable
Timeless elegance meets The Cotswolds’ beloved countryside at this 16th century inn on the village green.
- 19 bespoke guest rooms and cottages
- Afternoon tea served on the guest-only terrace
Situated in the “jewel of the Cotswolds,” this 16th century inn embodies everything the area is known for: rolling countryside, meandering rivers, charming villages, and small-town hospitality. A highlight on the England Cotswolds Village to Village Walking Tour, guests love starting their day with complimentary English breakfast and unwinding at Tattersall’s Brasserie.
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7. Coul House Hotel – Contin by Strathpeffer, Scotland
Comfortable
19th century mansion near Inverness with a restaurant, bar, and family-friendly amenities.
- Just off the North Coast 500
- Gardens with a fairy trail, mini-golf course, and playground
Nestled in the hills above the tiny village of Contin, Coul House Hotel provides comfortable accommodation for exploring the Scottish Highlands. The hotel is an 1820s mansion, comprising bedrooms with ornate architecture and lovely views. 25 minutes from Inverness and with a hearty restaurant, it’s a popular stop on the Scotland Western Isles Hiking Tour.
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Portugal
8. Hotel Fonte Santa – Monfortinho
Comfortable
An impeccably landscaped oasis with an infinity pool, spa, and breakfast guests rave about.
- Outdoor pool with bar and terrace
- Complimentary loaner bikes
The Fonte Santa is upscale, yet quaint, as evidenced by its location. Tucked into stunning rock formations in the village of Penha Garcia, the hotel is all at once remote, scenic, and convenient to other popular tour areas, including Monsanto. The wild landscape is stunning, and guests enjoy an infinity pool and spa, a welcome treat along the Portugal Historic Village Hiking Tour.
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9. Sapientia Boutique Hotel – Coimbra
Comfortable
Chic minimalist hotel in the center of Coimbra, offering stunning views and a tapas bar.
- Walking distance to the university and train station
- Rooftop with the area’s best views
Next to the UNESCO World Heritage University of Coimbra, Portugal’s oldest (1290), the Sapientia is a fantastic basecamp for exploring this vibrant area. The hotel is on a cobblestone street, honoring the region’s literary legacy with rooms named after writers and overlooking the renowned library. Experience it on the Portugal & Spain El Camino Portugues Hiking Tour!
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10. Parador de Santiago de Compostela – A Coruña
Luxury
The oldest hotel in Spain, oozing luxury and mere feet from the cathedral.
- Fantastic location in a historic building
- Large complimentary breakfast
Another highly anticipated stop on the 11-day Portugal & Spain hiking tour, the Parador de Santiago de Compostela is Spain’s oldest hotel. It occupies a 15th century pilgrim hospital at the heart of Santiago, facing the main plaza. In addition to the beautiful architecture and luxe furnishings, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast, a bar, four cloisters, and a terrace.
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Alps
11. Hotel Astoria – Canazei, Italy
Comfortable
Get an authentic taste of the Italian Alps at this chalet in the Dolomites.
- Full-service spa and pool with four areas
- Restaurant hosts weekly candlelit dinner with live music
Charming Hotel Astoria offers four-season recreation in the heart of the Dolomites. The inviting chalet-style lodging has 1- to 3-bedroom rooms, a piano bar, indoor pool, and wellness spa. While recharging during the Italy Best of the Dolomites Hiking Tour, guests can also take advantage of free breakfast, lift tickets, and mountain bike rentals.
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12. Les Grands Montets Hotel & Spa – Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Comfortable
Enjoy magical mountain views and renowned French Alps hiking or skiing.
- Free shuttle to Chamonix
- Spa with pool and sauna
Sitting at the base of the wildly popular Grands Montets ski resort, this modern lodge offers panoramic mountain views and loads of amenities. Lifts and several trails are just a five-minute walk, there’s a pool and spa, and guests rave about breakfast and the toiletries. See it for yourself on the Alps Tour du Mont Blanc Express Hiking Tour!
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13. Le Chalet Blanc Hotel – Montgenèvre, France
Comfortable
Located at the fifth-largest ski resort in the world, within walking distance of the lifts.
- Complete renovation in 2021
- Renowned spa
Enjoy a true Alps ski lodge experience in the Montgenèvre resort at Le Chalet Blanc. A welcome respite on the 14-day France Alps GR5 Trek Tour, a renowned historic route, this stunning hotel offers spacious rooms and warm hospitality. Highlights include a restaurant with terrace, multiple lounges with cozy fireplaces, a game room, and a spa with Turkish baths.
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South America
14. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa – Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Luxury
Top-notch, all-inclusive retreat overlooking Lake Sarmiento in Torres del Paine National Park.
- Custom-tailored excursions
- Full-service spa with indoor infinity pool and sauna
The all-inclusive Tierra Patagonia sits on the outskirts of Torres del Paine National Park. No detail is overlooked at the eco-luxury property, from the minimalist design complementing the natural surroundings to the impeccable concierge service. The soaking tubs overlooking the park are a highlight for those on the Argentina & Chile Patagonia Luxury Hiking Adventure Tour.
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15. Palacio del Inka – Cusco, Peru
Luxury
Historic landmark in central Cusco with authentic Incan stone walls and modern amenities.
- Sacred location in front of Temple of the Sun
- Baby alpacas onsite
Housed in a 500-year-old palace, Cusco’s Palacio del Inka makes an ideal launch point to explore Peru’s magic. The hotel is a short walk from the town square, and guest rooms feature local artwork and furnishings, plus balconies or terraces. Experience this stunning hotel’s luxury as part of the Peru Machu Picchu & Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek Tour.
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16. Salkantay Lodge – Soraypampa, Peru
Comfortable
Eco-friendly lodge combining traditional Incan building methods and rustic luxury.
- Secluded outdoor hot tub
- Organic Peruvian fusion cuisine
Nestled in a mountain valley, Salkantay Lodge is a small 12-room property along the Machu Picchu & Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek Tour. In addition to trekking, guests can go on other adventures such as horseback riding and mountain biking. There are large common living and dining areas with a bar, plus the lodge’s crown jewel: a hot tub facing the mountains.
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North America
17. Glacier Park Lodge – East Glacier Park, Montana
Comfortable
Historic, stunning national park lodge featuring rustic mountain furnishings.
- Seasonal restaurant, bar, pool, and 9-hole golf course
- Shuttle to the nearby Amtrak station
Just outside pristine Glacier National Park, Glacier Park Lodge is exactly what you want from a property in Montana. The large, welcoming lobby with real fir trees greets you, and there are numerous nooks and fireplaces to cozy up in front of. Enjoy television-free relaxation and natural beauty at this stop on the Montana Glacier National Park Hiking Tour.
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18. Hotel Saint George – Downtown Marfa, Texas
Comfortable
Enjoy the artistic splendor of Marfa’s local artists from this cozy hotel that has attracted high-profile visitors like Anna Wintour, David Byrne, and Natalie Portman!
- Generous accommodations to make your stay comfortable
- A trendy outdoor pool area equipped with a bar, grill, and a hot tub
Exploring America’s iconic Southwest national park on the Texas Big Bend National Park Hiking Tour is bucket list-worthy, but Hotel Saint George truly adds to the experience. Located in the remote town of Marfa, this newly opened hotel is one of the few available options! This full-service hotel has a fine-dining restaurant, a private dining room, bar and lounge, and a spectacular outdoor pool, perfect for socializing and relaxation!
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19. Cliffrose Lodge – Springdale, Utah
Comfortable
Relaxing riverfront mountain lodge in iconic Zion National Park.
- Hot tubs overlooking the river
- Zion shuttle stop
Complementing its jaw-dropping natural surroundings, Cliffrose Lodge shows off Zion’s massive red rocks and the tranquil Virgin River. The walkable, central location and amenities like a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and private balconies make this a favorite stay on the Utah National Parks Multi-Adventure Tour, hitting all of Utah’s Mighty 5.
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Asia
20. Tajimaya Minshuku – Nakatsugawa, Kiso Valley, Japan
Rustic
Authentic minshuku with a 100-year-old irori and private wooden soaking tubs.
- Japanese-style breakfast and dinner, followed by traditional song
- Air-conditioning
Tajimaya is a traditional minshuku, or family-run bed and breakfast, right along the ancient Nakasendo trade route. Guest rooms are minimalistic but very comfortable, and both dinner and breakfast are shared meals. Bathroom facilities are communal, although there are private wooden baths — a welcome treat after long days on the Japan Kyoto to Tokyo Walking Tour.
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21. Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace – Rajasthan, India
Luxury
5-star hotel built in 1911 by a former emperor.
- Excellent, elaborate breakfast
- Lake or garden view rooms
A stunning property that highlights the region’s natural beauty, the Lalit overlooks Fateh Sagar Lake. In the tradition of Udaipur’s opulent palaces, the intimate 5-star hotel offers guests impeccable service, multiple excellent restaurants, and impeccable service. See for yourself why this is a favorite on the 13-day India Royal Rajasthan Cultural Discovery Tour!
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22. Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge – Nepal
Comfortable
Traditional longhouse-style lodge in Chitwan National Park offering several wildlife adventures.
- Guided safaris, elephant walks, and other adventures
- Shared pool and pristine gardens
Chitwan National Park is the crown jewel of Nepal’s parks, home to rare wildlife including Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinos. Tharu Lodge allows you to experience it firsthand, capping off the Nepal Annapurna Lodge-to-Lodge Trek Tour. The intimate property offers rooms and safari tents, private bathrooms, an outdoor pool, restaurant, and even wi-fi.
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Middle East
23. Alila Jabal Akhdar – Oman
Comfortable
Ultra remote luxury retreat in the mountains focusing on wellness and sustainability.
- Highly rated spa
- Private cliff-edge dining experience
Dubbed “Oman’s most ambitious wilderness hotel” by Conde Nast Traveler, the Alila is unforgettable. Perched high on a cliff in the Jabal Akhdar Mountains, the hotel has an infinity pool, restaurant, and lounge. Unplug and enjoy Turkish coffee and rose water prepared with ancient methods, a favorite experience on the Oman Cultural Discovery Private Adventure Tour.
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24. Dana Guesthouse – Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan
Comfortable
A simple but extremely comfortable guest house nestled in the cliffs of Wadi Dana.
- Daily complimentary breakfast
- Views directly into the reserve
The starting point for hiking through the Dana Biosphere Reserve on the Jordan Passage to Petra Trekking Tour, the Dana Guesthouse offers comfortable hostel-style accommodations. Keeping with Jordanian custom, the vibe is hospitable and the food served is an elaborate spread. Guest rooms overlook the reserve, and most have private bathrooms or balconies.
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25. Byblos Sur Mer – Lebanon
Comfortable
Outstanding hotel on the sea combining local tradition and modern luxuries.
- Beachfront (Bahsa Beach)
- Several ancient Byzantine relics incorporated into the decor and architecture
Perched on Byblos Harbor, Byblos Sur Mer offers incredible Mediterranean Sea views and direct beach access. The hotel is also walking distance from the popular Old Souk, and includes a variety of notable artwork and archaeological artifacts, serving as a wonderful complement to the Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking Tour.
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Africa
26. Camp Moremi – Botswana
Luxury safari camp
Secluded, luxurious thatched-roof safari tents in the Moremi Game Reserve.
- En suite bathrooms
- Onsite activities include game drives and boat excursions
The only thing that could enhance the Botswana Classic Safari Private Adventure Tour is a stay at Camp Moremi. 12 luxurious safari tents, each on their own platform and with en suite bathrooms, overlook the Xaxanaka Lagoon in the Moremi Game Reserve. Shared amenities include wildlife viewing platforms, an outdoor pool, fire pit, library, garden, and open-air lounge.
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Whatever exotic destinations you explore, comfortable accommodations can make you feel at home, leaving you rested and recharged to tackle the next adventure.
If any of these dream accommodations or treks stand out to you, be sure to check out the trip itineraries for full details. And keep in mind, you can make your dream a reality and experience these magical places yourself by booking a trip with MT Sobek today!